Polar Opposites: 2021 Rolex Explorer II vs. 2008 Explorer II (226570 vs. 16570)

A look at the brand new Rolex Explorer II 226570 and how it compares to the classic 16570 that ran from 1989 to 2011.

[@n.h187]

They brought the 36mm explorer back which I'm definitely going after , wish they did the same and brought the 40mm explorer 2 back. It would have been everything and more what I want in a sports Rolex.

[@YoureTerrific]

That'd be great. Maybe in 10 years.

[@n.h187]

@@YoureTerrific I think so too. Hope it's sooner though

[@WrongTimeWatch]

I totally agree.

[@Pete...NoNotThatOne]

They’ve got to wait for the big watch craze to come back, then they’ll go to small watches again.

[@danielmiller9012]

I want them to release a 40mm / less chunky Sky Dweller as well Also, launch a new milgauss that's 39-40mm and less chunky

[@j.r.chen30]

Personally I love the smaller size of the older explorer II. 38-39mm is perfect for me

[@lookitsjunho]

Just got the black dial last week. I was so excited at the AD when I received it. Once i had it on my wrist, I knew I made the right choice. It's my first rolex, and I couldn't have asked for a better first. I wear it constantly now.

[@noeldavis618]

Your voiceover is just spot on. Timing and dry humor is perfect!

[@YoureTerrific]

Thanks

[@sac_fijian6314]

I saw the black dial at my local AD (wasn't mine but another customer's but AD called me to have a look before customer picked it up). For the new version, the black dial is spectacular. Both now use lacquered dials but the black dial is deep black and crystal has AR coating now so the white gold accents make the dial really pop. I'm on the waitlist so super stoked.

[@chateaubullion2560]

I have the old 16570 with caliber 3185 so slightly older than yours. To me the old Explorer II size hits the sweet spot perfectly. I did look at the new one but didn't care for it at all.

[@Nuclear__HS]

Your sense of humor slays me. Every video. Keep it up!

[@chinwengkeong]

The 16570 is still a more charming, lighter, slimmer and more comfortable watch. The best Explorer II still.

[@markgtba]

I totally agree, I’ve been offered a chance to buy a new explorer II from an AD but I would have to trade my 16570 in to afford it

[@chinwengkeong]

@@markgtba Nah. Pass. 😄

[@lettuce1305]

I wouldn't do it, in fact it was the other way around for me. I had the 42mm 216570 found that it wears large on my wrist, feels more like a 43 or even 44mm. Sold it for the 16570, never looked back. To my 6.75 inch wrist, the size and proportions of the 16570 is just right. @@markgtba

[@Portland_Living_Life]

Wow really interesting comparison. They both look great on your wrist, but side by side the differences are really pronounced! My pick would be the new one. The handset seems a little cartoon-ish, but somehow seems to work better. I have an older GMT Master II with that red 24 hour hand and just find it odd while the orange hand just seems to work better (in my eyes) with those big hands.

[@YoureTerrific]

Ladies and gentlemen, the owner of the 226570. Thanks again for the loan. The internet is benefiting from your generosity, my man.

[@f.r.cofresi3497]

Fantastic video and review. There is no lot of videos reviewing the new Explorer II online. My. AD just call me to take a look at this new Explorer, and I was blown away by how good this watch looks in person. The pictures and video don't do justice to this watch. The metal bezel brushed had a very peculiar shine, and the bracelet's all-matte finish is incredible. When my AD offer me to buy this watch at a retail price, I couldn't refuse. To my surprise, the old model is retailing up in price, so the market is crazy. Keep the good work, cheers!!

[@nathanrakhlin3877]

I love the final shot you always do. Fade out of focus. Amazing 🙌🙌

[@audemarspiguet4237]

The 16570 has just a more elegant case size and design than the 42mm version

[@robertofresard134]

Just got the 226570 in black at the local AD and, imo, the lug and bracelet size, combined with the slimmer crown and crown guards give it a vintage feel, although it is a 42 maxi-tank.

[@darellhunter2205]

I absolutely love the Explorer II Polar dial with orange hands. It was on my wishlist with the Batman. I was allocated the Batman and am thrilled with it, but am still looking to add the Polar dial to the collection one day. Awesome review of both generations. I've really been enjoying your videos of late. Thanks for the great content.

[@michaelfierman3256]

I think what i miss most from the older Rolex models is the thinner font for the logo. it just looked more elegant. I'm sure people will think this is ridiculous, but tell them not to email me....

[@YoureTerrific]

I think a lot of people would agree with you.

[@henrikdotc]

Wholehearted agree. Not replacing my 16570 with the newer.

[@sakisss213]

I love both watches!!but I prefer the new one !!upgrade calibre,has got a much better quality bracelet and is more “faith”to the original watch relative the gmt hand !in addition, I love the orange color to the gmt hand and in the word “explorer “

[@kaseyj8284]

I was an owner of the Rolex 16570 “Polar” and loved it, such a beautiful watch. I’ve just paid in full for the new 2021 Rolex 226570 Explorer II “Polar” which I’m collecting tomorrow and I can’t wait!! I’ve tried my friends on “he has the black dial” and it wears better, feels more solid and I only have a 6 1/2” wrist and it doesn’t look too big. It’s perfect and I won’t be letting it go!! If you get to see it in person, this underrated, under the radar watch is the genuine 1 and done!! I’m glad it’s not as popular because it allows me to buy it new and love it. I think people are mad and glad no one else has realised how great it is 🙂.

[@pendaranroberts4350]

What are the wait times?

[@kaseyj8284]

I placed my expression of interest in April, and took delivery mid July. This is now my second Rolex from the same AD and both times it took about 3 months total. My first from this AD was the 41mm OP blue dial, then the Explorer II Polar. As mentioned both times from time of going in store and placing my name down till the call both time about 3 months. Hope this helps

[@pendaranroberts4350]

@@kaseyj8284 3 months isn't so bad! Are you enjoying your explorer II polar? I think it's my favorite Rolex design but I haven't tried one on yet. Right now my everyday watch is a seamster 300m ceramic with a black dial (last gen model). Had it for 3-4 years now and it's holding up well. Wear it everyday. But yea thinking the white dial explorer II would be a nice compliment to it. But I'm also tempted by the new IWC pilot 41mm. Their bracelets are amazing!

[@kaseyj8284]

@@pendaranroberts4350 no your right, 3 months isn’t long to wait especially when I have some other friends who are not even able to get the 41mm OP now and been waiting 5 months so far. In all honesty I love the my Explorer II so much. Prior to buying it I was wearing my Tudor Black Bay 58 “Black dial” daily which I purchased in August 2020 from a different AD and truly love that as my wrist isn’t very big. However after I sold my Explorer II 16570 about 4 years ago I’ve regretted it ever since and always wanted another and decided with so many fakes and scams I just go new now. I was concerned it would be a tad too big at 42mm but my friend got his a few weeks prior and I tried it on and it looked so good, by this time I already had my name down for mine. After having mine now I actually love it more than I thought I would and I love the “Bright White” dial and Mat black hands. It truly is a one and done watch if that’s what your looking for. It has date, dual time (I use mine for 24 hour time) it’s so easy to read and just a great watch. The white dial really does “Pop” and stands out and just looks so good, the black dial is more toned down if you prefer however I love the polar. If you ask my opinion, it’s perfect for any collection and it is actually the one Rolex I like out of the entire collection personally. Looks better in person that what the internet shows and you wouldn’t be disappointed. Suit a large wrist easily, however as I said I have a small wrist and it wears great and I am very happy. Hope this helps.

[@pendaranroberts4350]

@@kaseyj8284 My main concern about the explorer II is the SS bezel getting scratched up. I like to wear my watches and not baby them and stress over them too much, but I don't want big scratches either. Do you find the SS bezel is a scratch magnet or does it hold up well? Thanks so much for the feedback so far. Very Helpful!

[@mikec3454]

I don't understand why Rolex made the Explorer II so damn big ... I love the polar dial but the dimensions are silly for that watch.

[@Longshore79]

Do you have a 4 inch wrist ?

[@AjejeB]

To make time more easily readable in the darkness of a cave, which is the use it is “designed” for...

[@barlow1973]

The new one suits much better on your wrist. Great comparison video. Thanks!

[@arijon98]

I love my Explorer II 16570! Thanks for the video, really enjoyed seeing the differences between the versions.

[@steveabplanalp1657]

Great comparison. I have the black dial versions of both references. Great watches either one.

[@saschagizzi4272]

Hello, and First of all: THX for all that great content! ❤️ Mhm, in my opinion the „Maxi Dial“ was first shown in the Yacht-Master Platinum not the 50th Sub. My YM was sold 2002 and compared to old Subs it’s clearly „maxi“. BTW: I Iike the older Polar more too. Looks more refined and just Perfect. While the the new ones are clearly more readable. Thx for Your Great Content! 👍🏻❤️

[@TheWayofGrace89]

I prefer the new

[@YoureTerrific]

It's awesome.

[@WatchTheFuck]

Me too... But a great example of evolution instead of revolution. You can clearly see a devlopment between the decades. Even though the latest update took only place under the hood. Love the combination with the grey shirts Evan and it's good to see, that you wear your watches, but also take care of them. Just a few scratches for a 13 year old watch, not bad!👍🏻

[@dangerpowers5939]

Wouldve been perfekt with the old case size. Rolex will turn into invicta if this continues.

[@Jasian01]

I don’t

[@merc7paul]

​@dangerpowers5939 no 42 is perfect

[@bernardolhgc]

The new one seems like it was made for people that own the old one...and just got old and can't see that well nowadays...so Rolex just made everything bigger and brighter on the dial...for the faithful customer...that...just got older 🤣

[@japd7897]

As you will feel when reaching 50 😄.

[@ceejaydeesoozaa]

4:20 looks amazing here. used to own the 42mm ref216570 when it was just released but sold it. now i kinda miss it. esp after looking at that outstanding wristshot

[@greycats99]

I bought my Submariner 2-and-half year ago and I thought that would be my only watch forever; then I was lucky enough to be able to buy a Polar Explorer II (216570) last December and this watch has never left my wrist. I absolutely adore it!

[@haromaster6086]

The odd ball is my favorite, by far too! Great video. It’s just an amazing watch

[@williamwu2724]

My opinion the new looks better on your wrist. You are right, the two look like completely different watches. The best answer is, to own both.

[@JohnnyB21401]

Great video! I have the same year polar the 2008. What do you think that year is worth now? I’ve been on a waitlist for the larger one for a while now. Don’t think they will ever call me so will likely just hang on to my 2008.

[@korbindallis]

That It's always sunny clip 😁, I like the older design but like the new movement n bracelet

[@YoureTerrific]

"Stop cultivating and start harvesting!"

[@AlSiguenza]

Always enjoy your reviews. The looks of the newer polar appeal to me a bit more, but would luv to own either one

[@tfergieman]

Quickly becoming my favorite watch channel on KZbin…

[@YoureTerrific]

Thanks

[@mullman]

I’ve had a 16570, wear a 216570 and have a 226570 coming in this week. This is the last great tool watch.

[@fiat500-cinquecentobianco9]

16570 is awesome. Got mine two months ago and super happy

[@nicksingleton]

Goodness gracious if I had a 7” wrist the 226750 is the clear winner, but I can still love the 16570 on my dainty man wrist.

[@emaeder18]

I really love your video style. Fresh, funny and informative. 😃

[@markdance574]

I feel Rolex didn’t put enough effort into the new 2021 version - but at the same time it’s still a nice watch - I wish there was more dial colour options in the explorer 2 range .

[@OSS976]

I can see why some think that, but I couldn’t disagree more… the polar and black being the only colors is why I love the explorer. No flash, understated, and subtle.

[@Smithy67]

I've had my 216570 since new in 2014 and I'm very happy with it. When I see the previous version it seems tiny and rather delicate. That's just my opinion. Enjoy whatever you have.

[@YoureTerrific]

Enjoy what you have! It’s an amazing watch.

[@qazeqaz]

Ending statement was very well thought out and nice.

[@wivvix]

I much prefer the 16570. It's not even close for me. Aesthetically it was perfect, including its size and proportions. All it needed is an updated movement and newer bracelet. I'm sorry to say I wouldn't buy the 226570. Its too big, less appealing proportions, and has the general appearance of having put on some weight in unflattering ways.

[@royhsueh8491]

Old design, 39mm with new movement 😻

[@YoureTerrific]

Not sure it would fit!

[@CraigG21]

I love the new 42mm Polar Explorer2 - it looks & wears great on my 7.5” wrist! Us guys with larger wrists need larger watches.

[@Neubs-xv8tw]

I have a 6.5 inch wrist, do you think it would be too large?

[@CraigG21]

@@Neubs-xv8tw what is your wrist span? As long as its less than the lug to lug distance and you like the look of it, your fine.

[@ianross225]

Great comparison. The Explorer 2 is the only Rolex I really like but the 226570 is too much for my skinny wrists even in an age where bigger is the trend. 16750 is the one.

[@PhilandWatches]

Lmao, i love your chill intros. Always cracks me up! Keep up the great work!

[@YoureTerrific]

Glad you like them!

[@DeadReckoner]

I love it. Great work as always, m'dear! I used to prefer the black variant, but I was sad to see the "floating" hands leave the reference. Oh well. I still wouldn't say no! I'm dying to see some content on the new 2021 Semaster 300 41mm in blue - do you reckon you could get hands-on with one, please? 🙃

[@YoureTerrific]

Only if someone loans me one. I don’t have a relationship with Omega.

[@DeadReckoner]

@@YoureTerrific I would if I could but, then, I'd be tempted to steal your thunder instead ;)

[@SonOfScavenger]

Just what I needed! Thank you for this indepth comparison, keep'em coming🔥

[@YoureTerrific]

Happy to help

[@metro2171]

Both version looks awesome however I prefer the upgrades of the new version It’s a better watch

[@MC-uy5np]

Thank you for doing this video. We needed this video! I’m debating between the two and this has been super helpful. Great review

[@YoureTerrific]

Happy to help! That’s why I do this.

[@aleksandersiemaszko6027]

The new polar looks humongous.😳

[@flamadiddledoo]

Totally agree, unbalanced and bloated - glad I chose the older polar

[@geno816]

I needed that with my 7.5" wrist

[@yvesb1227]

Looks like I am going against the grain. I used to have a (new) Polar white, reference 16570 and sold it to a friend several years later because I found it's 40mm case too small. I went for a 42mm UN Maxi Marine Diver. Every time I would see my friend, I would be back to the same conclusion: "Looks too small". This same comment applies to the entire Rolex 40mm Sport line up. As soon as the 216570 came out, at 42mm, I said to myself "Finally!". When I was given the opportunity to acquire the reference 226570, I can't really explain why, but I immediately chose the Black dial version and I would never look back.

[@BowlOfSalmon]

Loving the dry humour !

[@YoureTerrific]

👍

[@frankthetank5013]

There is nothing like a 16570. I love my 2006 Polar. 🧊 ❄️

[@YoureTerrific]

That's for sure.

[@Sandouras]

I liked your sarcasm at the start. Nice.

[@YoureTerrific]

Just trying to champion the little guys 😉

[@Sandouras]

@@YoureTerrific That's why i liked it.

[@TheLumeRoom]

Great vid. LOVE that oversized Polar dial 😍

[@YoureTerrific]

It's really fun and very legible.

[@gabefore]

Me too. Love it

[@ec296]

Wonderful and thorough review

[@teslatalk42069]

new one smokes the old one but what else is new in the world

[@brunonjezic6208]

Old one looks quite elegant

[@dimitriskataras8507]

Magnificent Bipolar review!!

[@YoureTerrific]

Thanks

[@geirarnesen6531]

Excellent presentation and video. Huge KUDOS! 👏👌

[@Bamsebrakar2011]

I think the newer watch is too big and heavy, the older one is more harmonious. I always liked the Explorer II, even though I enjoy my GMT Master very much.

[@frankobrad9201]

Great video. I have had my Explorer II since 2000. I used part of a bonus from my company. I bought it at Fred’s in the Costa Mesa Fashion Plaza. They had every Rolex available. And I had a lot more money to spend than I did. It came down to the Polar and the Black face Explorer II. They were just so much more cooler than all of the more traditional Roles dive watches that looked so much like the cheap knockoffs that I had worn since a kid. It actually reminded me of the image imprinted in my mind of Sean Connery’s 007 watch. I have been so upset the the newer 007s went to crap omegas because of product placement. Like when they had a girls BMW for one of the movies no one ever watches. My watch gets recognized more often than I ever thought it would. I have been told, that’s the cool one. And if I could afford it that’s the Rolex I would get. So it’s 22 years old. Been in every pool and ocean from Cabo to Cancun. Hasn’t missed a step. It sucks at telling time. It’s about 3 minutes fast each week. But it isn’t going anywhere any time soon. I think of all of the junk Sekos or Citizen watches I would have bought if I had not purchased the Polar. It’s probably saved me about $20k over the years. When I finally keel over dead someone in the family is going to get a great watch.

[@regelwerke9331]

Great story! Have you ever made a service for your watch? Because 3 minutes per week seem like a lot to me, even for a twenty year old watch.

[@ASPIRINGATHLETE]

Would you say there's any meaningful difference between the 3186 and 3185 16570? Is the 3186 worth the premium or is the difference not big enough to only look for a 3186 16570?

[@Goonerz88]

A 2019 GMT Batman has a 3186 movement in it , you get old school charm in the proportions and a modern day movement, it’s a no brainier . 3186 was only produced for a small number of years so is also quite rare in comparison to the 3185 . The 3186 explorer 2 is the best choice in my opinion.

[@harleminthebuildn9234]

TOP MARKS MATE 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 YOU SHOWED THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE 2 WATCHES VS TALKING ABOUT THE DIFFERENCE WITHOUT SHOWING BOTH WATCHES

[@MrZ676]

I prefer the older/smaller one. It looks more delicate.

[@danielx40]

“And of course my first thought was to compare his polar to my polar…” 🤣🤣🤣

[@ianferris]

just the video I needed for my sudden love for the 16570! 16570 is a better looking watch, but the 226570 offers the spec and clasp I prefer.

[@AndyAdventuring]

I do not understand why this watch does not have the glidelock. Just about any physical activity you are performing will swell your wrist, especially if your arms spend any time at your sides. The glidelock seems supremely useful for that purpose. I am not going to carry a strap tool on my excursions, and the 5mm extension is too much for this use case. Missed opportunity.

[@JerryTLai]

I think the black dial is better on the 16570, but on the 216570 or 226570, polar all the way.

[@Maarten_official_account]

I always liked the 16570 until the 216570 came out. I had to have it and never regretted it. To be honest, the 22mm bracelet on the 226570 doest do its appearance any good bit that’s just a personal opinion. For me the 216570 still is the best of both worlds on the wrist. I don’t need a power reserve of 70 hours in my rotation, I wear my watch a few days in a row and then it goes back in the safe for some weeks. I have to admit I’m wearing mine for over a week now because for some reason I think of it as my favourite summer watch.

[@thelucentcrow9084]

I’ve got the bb58 black the size is perfect but I have vintage omega 33mm and 35mm they are also perfect ha ha I can say I’ve tried this new explorer and it doesn’t feel that big it fit great out of everything I tried on and left me wanting it, I’m on the list so we will see how long it takes 👍

[@hugohernandez3651]

42mm is a a perfect size for my wrist. I also prefer the orange hand over the red one. It is such a beautiful combination of colors. Very subjective opinion of course.

[@freshgresh]

What’s your wrist size?

[@conradcoolerfiend]

If one has the wrist for the new one (and you do), I think it's superior in every way, and I typically prefer the pre ceramic pieces.

[@Herman-zc7te]

Great comparison

[@ponolovefarms3926]

I’d take that older 2008 everyday. Beautiful watch

[@marcuslieberman3577]

Great review! I'm not a Rolex fanboy, however, if you play: You can only have one watch- The 16570 Polar would be the one! After seeing this review, 226570 is a real contender. Now the only problem is can you get one from the AD? Why don't Rolex have see thru case backs? What are they hiding? 🙂

[@henrikdotc]

Would probably be an impossible engineering feat, but would love the old 16570-style bracelet with a miniature glidelock. Give me 8mm microadjust in 2mm increments with the stamped design and flip lock, and hollow links for weight and rattleness.

[@Sbizzer0]

Yes, I prefer the old one too, better proportions

[@RB-xv4si]

This model would be a great candidate to be released in RLX titanium. It would make it so much nicer to wear on a daily basis, while not messing up the aesthetic.

[@justarandomguy3071]

I love the orange gmt hand. Much better than the old red one.

[@WrongTimeWatch]

I would like a new Explorer II in the old size for my 6.5" wrist.

[@YoureTerrific]

That'd be ideal.

[@Neubs-xv8tw]

With a 6.5 inch wrist, would this be too big? I really want this watch, worried it won't fit.

[@OSS976]

Yeah I think new one would tbh. Go to an AD and try it on. Most seem to have it on display from ones I’ve visited.

[@steffydog]

Great video as always, thanks

[@PhilippGBeyer]

Nice video! And BTW, you could add easily an Easylink to the clasp of the 16570, I've made it and now it fits wonderful in every occasion.

[@Pete...NoNotThatOne]

I’ve got a 16570, where do you get the Easylink?

[@ceejaydeesoozaa]

hv a feeling that just like they did with the explorer 1, rolex may just go back to the older size 40mm for the exp2, imo

[@leelogins3982]

Excellent Video Good comparison Been waiting for this video. Explorer 2 has imo always been great looking piece. For me 42mm even better. 👊

[@Nefville]

Dude your reviews are so good. Have you thought about joining the watch community? There are some awesome discords and a LOT of other awesome reviewers in there. If you're not already that is. Keep up the good work.

[@YoureTerrific]

Thanks! At the moment I don't have time and energy for another social channel, but I'm glad to know this exists.

[@NATNETINARELLI]

16570 looks miles better with its well-proportioned, timeless design and 40mm case. 226570 could have been better if it were 40mm, 1971 OG throwback design i.e. distinctive markers Can't understand the big-watch syndrome that is still plaguing the watch industry.

[@ricardoronaldo837]

Considering that when wearing 36mm watches I'm asked if they're women's watches, and seeing the number of people wearing those giant diesel watches, I'd say it's about people being insecure in their masculinity and the high rate of obesity, especially in older people who are able to afford these.

[@thegorn]

New one is out of proportion.

[@marcfavero1255]

@YoureTerrific, the 226570 are good on your wrist ! what is the size of your wrist ?

[@carlotaboadamd366]

Love it! Thank you for the comparison video - waiting on my 226570, hopefully (and my fingers are crossed) I’ll get it before my 50th Bday in December! Come on AD - LET’S GO!! ⏱🙏🏽

[@torontowatches9709]

Love my 216570. Rolex should definitely downsize the watch to similar specs as new Subs 40.5 and it would be pure perfection.

[@joespart4782]

I have the 16570 polar and love it. The new one is too chunky for me .

[@wasianed]

Great comparison! 👏

[@ugaais]

I have a 7.5 wrist I usually like 40mm but this is a tool watch and a weekend watch so I would purchase the 26570…but I’m a VC guy and prefer to fly under the radar…so my Generation II big date chronograph is my weekend watch and the automatic my day to day..

[@tiempodesobrahn]

there is a 16570 with a z serial which has the 3186 movement plus solid end links... that's the best choice for me.

[@YoureTerrific]

That’s basically what I have. SEL and 3186.

[@tiempodesobrahn]

@@YoureTerrific Tops

[@levonmuradian]

Still one of my top five watches of all time. I like the polar but the black dial is the classic. Also if i was gonna buy the modern version i would get in black cause it would look like the watch would look smaller.

[@YoureTerrific]

Definitely true about looking smaller.

[@llai8501]

Amazing video as usual.

[@dooks85]

Sorry if you mentioned this in the video but what size is your wrist? The 42mm fits you perfectly man. On the fence because I have a 6.5 inch wrist. Great video!

[@YoureTerrific]

I say it in every video: 7 inches.

[@ahkeen]

I got the cheaper version of this…Tudor Black Bay Pro. Hoping the BBP will have a white dial

[@nukie404]

Very nice, the 16570 looks like a dressy splenking watch similar to how the Submariner is a dressy diver. I can imagine a buff bro spelunking or perhaps getting stuck somewhere with the 226570.