The replica Rolex Explorer II 16559 imitation refers to a fake version of Rolex's 24-hour sports watch, but no genuine Explorer II was ever stamped 16559. Rolex has produced the Explorer II under references 1655, 16550, 16570, 216570, and 226570 only. A buyer searching for "16559" is almost certainly looking for an imitation of the vintage 16550 or the long-running 16570, the two references most commonly copied.
Does Rolex make an Explorer II reference 16559?
No. The number 16559 does not appear in Rolex's Explorer II catalog or in any known prototype record. The closest real references are the 16550, made from 1985 to 1989 with caliber 3085 and a sapphire crystal, and the 16570, made from 1989 to 2011 with calibers 3185 and later 3186.
Replica sellers often invent or mistype reference numbers to dodge trademark filters and search takedowns. That is why listings for a "16559" watch frequently show photos of a 16570 instead.
Buy Replica Rolex Explorer 2 16559
Which Explorer II references do imitations copy most?
The 16570 dominates the replica market because it ran for 22 years and exists in two dial colors, black and the white "Polar" version. Counterfeiters also copy the 40mm case size, the fixed steel 24-hour bezel, and the orange GMT hand.
Replica Rolex Explorer 2 16559 Cost Guide
- 16570 Polar dial with black surrounds, the single most copied configuration
- 16570 black dial with tritium or Super-LumiNova markers
- 16550 transitional models with white gold surrounds on the hour markers
- 216570 42mm models, usually sold as a separate tier of replica
How do you judge the quality of an Explorer II imitation?
Case dimensions, dial printing, and hand alignment separate a wearable replica from an obvious fake. Measure the case: a real 16570 is 40mm across without the crown, roughly 12.5mm thick, and 47mm lug to lug.
- Check the GMT hand sweep. It should jump independently in one-hour steps on a true GMT movement.
- Inspect the crystal. Genuine sapphire sits nearly flush, with no milky edge under a light source.
- Compare dial text. Printing should be crisp, evenly spaced, and free of bleeding under magnification.
- Test the bezel. It is fixed on the Explorer II, not rotating, so any turn is a defect.
- Weigh the bracelet. Solid end links and a signed clasp are baseline expectations.
What movement is inside a replica Explorer II?
Most imitations use an Asian automatic, typically a 2836-2 clone or a Seagull or Hangzhou caliber with a decorative rotor plate. Claims of a genuine Swiss ETA or Rolex caliber inside a replica are usually false, since those movements cost more than the finished watch.
A true GMT function requires a modified or purpose-built movement, which is why working 24-hour hands are rare in budget replicas. Expect a fake GMT hand that is linked to the main hour hand on cheaper tiers.
How much does a replica Explorer II cost?
Pricing falls into rough bands. Entry-level copies run about 80 to 150 US dollars, mid-tier replicas with better cases and dials run 200 to 400 dollars, and the highest tier tops out near 600 dollars. Nothing at any price matches genuine Rolex finishing or service support.
Is buying a replica Explorer II legal in the United States?
No, selling or importing counterfeit goods is illegal under US trademark law, and Customs and Border Protection seizes counterfeit watches at the border. Personal possession is rarely prosecuted, but the item can be confiscated with no refund. Genuine Rolex service centers will not touch a counterfeit, so repairs fall to independent watchmakers.
Frequently asked questions
Is the "16559" Explorer II a real reference number?
No. It is a seller-invented number that does not match any Rolex Explorer II produced.
Does a replica Explorer II hold value?
No. Replicas depreciate immediately and cannot be resold through reputable channels.
Can a watchmaker service a replica Explorer II?
Some independent shops will, but parts availability is limited and costs can exceed the price of the watch.