Rolex, Explorer II, 226570, White Dial, Polar, Stainless Steel, Oyster Bracelet, 42mm.

The Rolex Explorer II 226570-0001 “Polar” stands at the intersection of rugged capability and everyday versatility.

Designed for adventurers long before dual time zones became a luxury trend, this reference carries forward a legacy rooted in environments where light and dark blur and direction matters just as much as timing.

Its 42mm Oystersteel case is robust without feeling oversized.

Crafted from Rolex’s corrosion-resistant steel, it offers a solid feel on the wrist and a finish that resists wear and tear from both urban life and outdoor pursuits.

The fixed 24-hour bezel encircles the case with practical purpose, as opposed to ornamentation.

The white dial is a signature element that gives this reference its distinctive identity.

The high-contrast layout, bold black markers and hands set against a crisp white surface, makes legibility effortless, even in challenging light.

Chromalight luminescence on the markers and hands ensures visibility in the dark, while the orange 24-hour hand introduces a pop of purposeful colour that reinforces the tool-watch character.

Beyond its clear time reading, the watch also includes a date function with the classic Rolex Cyclops magnifier over the aperture, making daily use more intuitive.

The additional 24-hour hand paired with the fixed bezel lets the wearer track a second time zone or simply distinguish day from night, a feature that proved invaluable for speleologists, polar explorers and anyone who finds themselves where the sun doesn’t behave predictably.

Underneath the practical design beats Rolex’s Calibre 3285, a self-winding movement known for robust accuracy and efficiency.

With roughly 70 hours of power reserve and innovations like the Chronergy escapement and Paraflex shock absorbers, it supports both the time and GMT functions with reliable performance suited to modern life.

The Oyster bracelet completes the watch with a balanced combination of strength and comfort.

Its solid links and Oysterlock folding clasp with Easylink extension provide security and adaptability on the wrist, whether you’re navigating a crowded airport or a remote trail.

It does not lean on flashy complications; the Explorer II 226570-0001 expresses its sophistication through purpose, with a design that honours its roots while offering the versatility and everyday usability that discerning collectors appreciate.