Sell Your Rolex Explorer II in London
The Explorer II pairs a fixed 24-hour bezel with a bright orange hand, made for cavers and explorers who lose track of day and night. Fair Vintage buys Explorer II references in London, valuing each on its own merits.
Same-day or next-day appointments may be available, subject to availability. We can arrange to meet at a safe, mutually agreed location convenient to you.
Request a ValuationAbout the Rolex Explorer II
Introduced in 1971, the Explorer II is best known early on for the reference 1655 with its orange 24-hour hand, nicknamed 'Freccione'. Later references added a true independent GMT function and both black and white 'Polar' dials.
Explorer II references and generations
Key references and variants we regularly assess:
- Reference 1655 — 'Freccione', fixed orange 24-hour hand
- Reference 16570 — 40mm, black or white 'Polar' dial
- Reference 216570 — 42mm generation
- Reference 226570 — current 42mm, calibre 3285
- Rehaut-engraved and earlier non-engraved 16570 dials
Movements and calibres
Later Explorer II references gained an independently adjustable 24-hour hand. Current models use the in-house 3285 with roughly 70-hour reserve; earlier ones used the 3185 and 3186. Running condition and service history feed the valuation.
What affects the value of a Rolex Explorer II
Among the factors we weigh when valuing a Rolex Explorer II:
- Reference and generation
- Black or white 'Polar' dial
- Dial variant on the 16570 (rail vs. non-rail)
- Box, papers and service records
- Condition, bracelet stretch and polishing
- Current demand for that reference
Selling a Rolex Explorer II without box or papers
Missing paperwork does not put a sale out of reach. We may consider a Rolex Explorer II without its original box, papers, warranty card or receipt.
Any purchase remains subject to authentication, condition inspection, and ownership and identification checks. Documentation can affect valuation depending on the piece, and we will always explain how.
How Fair Vintage assesses your Rolex Explorer II
We look at originality first — dial, hands, case and, where relevant, bezel and bracelet — then movement condition and any service history.
Replacement parts, prior polishing, provenance, and box and papers all feed into the assessment. We explain our reasoning so the offer is one you can understand and rely on.
Selling your Rolex Explorer II while visiting London
If you are visiting London, we can often arrange an appointment at short notice to value your Rolex Explorer II at a safe, mutually agreed location convenient to you.
Same-day or next-day appointments may be available, subject to availability. If you accept an offer and the required identification and compliance checks are completed, prompt payment is arranged.
How it works
A straightforward process, with no obligation at any stage:
- Contact us with a few details or photographs
- We arrange a suitable appointment
- Your Rolex Explorer II is inspected and valued in person
- We provide a clear offer — you are free to accept or decline
- If you accept and the required checks are completed, prompt payment is arranged
Request a valuation
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1655 'Freccione' handled differently?
Yes — as a vintage reference it is assessed with attention to dial, hand and case originality. Later 16570 and 226570 references are valued on their own configuration and demand.
Does the 'Polar' white dial add value?
It depends on the reference and demand. The white and black dials each have their following, and we assess the specific watch's condition and originality alongside.
Can I sell a Rolex Explorer II without the box or papers?
Yes — we may consider a Rolex Explorer II without its original box, papers or warranty card, subject to authentication and condition checks. Documentation can affect the valuation, and we will explain how for your specific piece.
How quickly can I arrange a valuation?
Same-day or next-day appointments may be available, subject to availability. Contact us with a few details and we will arrange a suitable time.
Am I obliged to sell if I request a valuation?
No. A valuation and any offer are provided with no obligation. You are free to accept or decline.
Request a Rolex Explorer II valuation
Tell us about your Rolex Explorer II and we will arrange a convenient appointment.
Request a ValuationSubject to availability.