Okay, so I’ve been eyeing the Rolex Explorer II 16570 for a while now. It’s that classic, understated tool watch vibe that I really dig. I finally decided to pull the trigger, and here’s how the whole thing went down.

The Hunt Begins
First, I scoured the usual online marketplaces. You know, the big forums and some trusted pre-owned dealer sites. I wasn’t looking for a brand-new one – a well-maintained, pre-owned piece was perfect, and honestly, part of the charm.
I spent weeks, maybe even a couple of months, just browsing. I compared different listings, looked at photos from every angle, and read countless seller reviews. It’s a big purchase, so you gotta be careful, right?
Narrowing It Down
I focused on 16570s with the black dial – that’s the one that really speaks to me. I also wanted one with the original box and papers, if possible. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s nice to have the complete set.
I found a few that looked promising. One was from a private seller on a forum, and the other two were from reputable dealers. I emailed all of them, asked a bunch of questions: service history, condition details, close-up photos of any scratches or dings.
Making the Decision
The private seller was super responsive and provided tons of photos. The watch looked great, and the price was tempting. But, I felt a bit more comfortable going with a dealer, just for the added peace of mind and return policy.

One of the dealers had a 16570 that ticked all the boxes. The photos showed it in excellent condition, it had the box and papers, and the seller had stellar reviews. I called them up, chatted with a salesperson for a bit, and felt good about the whole thing.
Pulling the Trigger
So, I did it! I wired the money, and a few days later, a carefully packaged box arrived at my doorstep. I was like a kid on Christmas morning.
The Unboxing
I opened the outer box, then the inner box, and finally, there it was – my 16570. It was even better in person than in the photos. The case had some minor wear, which I expected, but the dial and hands were pristine. The bracelet felt solid, and the clasp clicked securely.
I carefully take out my rolex.
The Joy of Ownership
- I put rolex on my hand.
- I wore my new rolex to a party.
I’ve been wearing the 16570 for a few weeks now, and I absolutely love it. It’s comfortable, it’s versatile, and it just has that classic Rolex quality. It’s the kind of watch you can wear every day, whether you’re dressed up or down.

It’s more than just a watch; it’s a piece of history on my wrist. And the whole process of finding and buying it was an adventure in itself.