Rolex Explorer 16570 Chicchi di Mais - Full Set

The heart and soul of the Rolex Explorer 16570 is the dial. It is the coveted Chicchi di Mais version. Early examples, such as this 1990 dial, were coated with a special tritium luminescent material that develops a distinctive patina over time. This grainy, warm discoloration creates a fascinating contrast with the bright white background, giving the watch its very own character. Italian collectors have given this version the charming nickname "Chicchi di Mais", which translates as "corn kernels". An affectionate expression for a rare dial variant with a high recognition value.

Launched in 1989 as the direct successor to reference 16550, the Rolex Explorer ref. 16570 continues the legacy of being a trusted companion for explorers and adventurers. It embodies the spirit of functionality and ruggedness in a design that is both sporty and understated.

Collectors appreciate this reference for its clean, minimalist aesthetics, comfortable wearability, and modern reliability. All this makes the 16570 an ideal everyday watch - one that offers both style and substance.

The example shown here dates from 1990, as confirmed by the original papers, making it one of the earliest production examples of this reference. It was originally sold in Lyon, France, and comes as a rare and highly collectible full set: chronometer certificate with stamped serial number and country code 110 for France, green presentation box, outer carton, booklet, hang tag, 1990-1991 Rolex calendar, leather document holder, and warranty translation - an impressive and historically authentic package.

It's not only the completeness of the set and the special dial, but also the great condition that makes this piece truly special: the case remains unpolished and shows only light signs of wear. The dial is perfectly preserved, as is the original Oyster bracelet with the correct date code inside the clasp.

This Rolex Explorer 16570 masterfully combines understatement with a spirit of adventure - a timepiece for connoisseurs who recognize rarity in simplicity.

Condition report
Dial: immaculate white dial - original tritium lume in markers and hands - signed "Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Explorer II Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified Swiss - T < 25".

Case: stainless steel case in great condition - unpolished with slight signs of wear - intact numbers between the lugs - correct engravings inside the back - screw-down Rolex crown - fixed 24-hour bezel in excellent condition.

Movement: Automatic Rolex caliber 3185 with adjustable 12-hour hand - values on the timegrapher: rate: +13s/day, beat error: 0.7 ms, amplitude: 255 degrees.

Bracelet: stainless steel Oyster bracelet - natural signs of wear - very light stretch - full length with 13 links - reference 78360 - clasp code O2 (1990).

Serial number: L874xxx (1990)

Int.Exe.: 23662