Commit TV Yagi Column ~ Will the Explorer II be discontinued in 2021?

The time of year that everyone loves to predict when products will be discontinued has arrived.

I'm sure you're all excited to see what amazing designs will be announced next. At the same time, you're also probably wondering what the future market prices will be for discontinued models...

The other day, Yasuharu Abe, the owner of Commit, wrote a column and YouTube channel about the truth behind Patek Philippe's discontinuation of the Nautilus. This time, I would like to tell you about the discontinuation of Rolex's Explorer II "Ref. 216570".

History of the Explorer II

First, let me give a quick overview of the Explorer II.

The Explorer II was launched in 1971 as a higher-end model of the Explorer I.

It was introduced as a "watch for cave explorers" with enhanced functionality and robustness, and a 24-hour hand to indicate the difference between day and night. At the time, it attracted attention as a design that was distinct from the Explorer I.

The first "Ref.1655"

The original "Ref. 1655" was produced for approximately 13 years and is still one of the most popular vintage Rolexes today.

It features a 24-hour hand, date display, bezel, indexes, etc., but the design is significantly different from the Explorer I in every respect. The movement is the Cal. 1570 chronometer.

Second generation "Ref.16550"

The second generation "Ref. 16550" was produced from around 1984 to 1988 and was a very short-lived model.

In terms of functionality, the 24-hour hand can operate independently and it is equipped with a GMT mechanism that can simultaneously display a second time zone.

Another topical feature of this model is the rare cream-colored "ivory dial."

*Rare item: Ivory dial

Third generation "Ref.16570"

The third generation, "Ref. 16570," was produced from around 1991 to 2011 and was a best-selling model for 20 years.

There are no major changes from the "Ref.16550" in terms of design, but the movement is Cal.3185 (Cal.3186 from around 2007). The power reserve is 48 hours, and the bridge supporting the balance has been changed from single to twin. The adjustment mechanism has also been changed from a Micro Stella screw to a Micro Stella nut, greatly improving the functionality.

④Fourth generation "Ref.216570"

And in writing this column, there are rumors that the current model "Ref. 216570" will be discontinued.

Changes from the "Ref.16570" include a larger case size from 40mm to 42mm, and a 24-hour hand reminiscent of the "Ref.1655". The movement is Cal.3187, which uses the latest shock absorber called Paraflex, and has improved earthquake resistance. The blue Parachrom hairspring, made of a paramagnetic alloy, provides magnetic resistance and shock resistance 10 times that of the standard, enhancing the functionality.

Explorer II is discontinued!?

From here on, we will get to the truth behind the rumors.

Why is the Explorer II considered the top candidate to be discontinued?

There are two main points to note here.

①50th Anniversary

As mentioned above, the Explorer II, which was born in 1971, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

Rolex has always placed great importance on such milestone years.

Here are some examples of models that have celebrated their 50th anniversaries in the past.

▶Submariner: 2003: Green Submariner released
▶ GMT Master: 2005 Rolex's first ceramic bezel
▶Milgauss: 2007: The Milgauss was reissued with green glass.
▶ Daytona: 2013 Daytona's first platinum model (Ice Blue)
▶Sea-Dweller: 2017 Red Sea-Dweller Reissue

Given this trend, it's not hard to imagine that the Explorer II will be replaced by a new model this year.

②New movement

The Explorer II is currently equipped with Cal. 3187, but in recent years, new Rolex models have been adopting new movements one after another. While other models are moving to the new 3200 series, the Explorer series is still in the 3100 series, so it is expected that the new movement will be installed when the new model is introduced.

The credibility of this information has increased significantly since the GMT-Master II, which was equipped with the same Caliber 3187 as the Explorer II, was equipped with the Caliber 3285 in 2018.

Future market price

Every year, when rumors spread that a Rolex is being discontinued, the market price rises.

Currently, the Explorer II "Ref. 216570" is still leading the buying trend.

The market price has been gradually rising since the end of last year, and the current selling price on the second hand market is

▶ White dial: 1.1 million to 1.4 million

▶Black dial: 1 million to 1.2 million

*Price range from used to unused items

It will be interesting to see how much the sales will grow in the two months remaining until April, when the new product is rumored to be released.

In addition, the "Ref. 16570", the model one generation before the "Ref. 216570", is also becoming increasingly popular.

The price of the "Ref. 16570" has risen significantly, especially for early models known as semi-vintage, such as those with tritium luminous dials. Depending on the condition of the bezel, case, and bracelet, some models can sell for over 1 million yen on the used market.

summary

What did you think of the information about the discontinuation of the Explorer II?

I hope I have been able to look back on the history of the Explorer II and also convey the greatness of this model.

New designs and models are always coming out in any era, but they always come with a story and a romantic background to their creation. The "Ref. 216570," which is likely to be discontinued this time, will likely be a model that will be talked about for years to come.

We are also looking forward to the arrival of the new Explorer II, which will mark a new beginning, and we look forward to enjoying the time until the new model is announced.

see you!