Which GMT? Explorer 16570 or GMT 116710

[tifosi521]

Hello everyone,

I've been racking my brains about this decision for over a month now and I finally decided to ask for some advice on the forum.

I originally fell in love with the GMT 116710 about six months ago when I tried it on at a local boutique. It fit my wrist perfectly at 40mm and "just sang to me" as you watch connoisseurs know what I'm talking about.

In the hunt for a pre-owned GMT, I found myself at Bob's watches in Huntington Beach. I had never seen a 40mm polar explorer II in the flesh, so I requested to see one. They had a really minty 2006 (polar) in stock and I tried it on and blammo...I didn't want to take it off. In a word "perfection" seemed fitting. There was something incredibly elegant, refined, and yet subdued about the size, aesthetics, and the the way the bracelet, bezel, crystal, and the whole package came together.

So I love both watches almost equally. Some days I'm leaning toward the polar Explorer II and three days later I'm back on the GMT. This will be my first Rolex and either one will fit nicely into my collection as I don't currently have a GMT, a white, or a black dialed watch. Of course, the obvious solution would be to buy them both, but I don't buy two watches that are so similar (function and looks wise) as I'm very careful about keeping a balanced collection. So unfortunately, choosing one will automatically mean the other watch won't be purchased.

I will be buying pre-owned and even though there is a little more than a 2000 dollar difference in price. And knowing that I will only choose one model, what advice can you give me?

I welcome any advice, but I'm especially anxious to hear from owners who have both watches.

Thanks,
Ray

[RocketScience]

16570)

[Britexpat76]

I own both and they are both versatile, swapping straps etc. tough call and only one you can make.


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[tifosi521]

Britexpat76: Thanks for the sweet pics. I love the holes cases for the older models because it makes changing the straps so easy.

[tifosi521]

Anyone else? So far, everyone points to 16570...

[myc ritz]

I've owned both and vote for the GMT IIC. When side by side, the fit and finish just look better. Both are amazing watches thought.

[tsattaba]

I've own both. It all versatile but 16570 still hav hollow brushed CTL and old style clapse ,btw 116710 have new solid polished CTL ,larger lug and new clapse so beaware of scrashs. If you choose 16570 , find later M , V or G series or year of production after 2008 , it use same new caliber 3186 with 116710 . Checking Caliber before buying coz the old 16570 was Cal. 3185.

[dba]

If you don't need the rotating bezel, go for the 16570. There are so many black faced watches out there, the polar white face really stands out. Good luck.

[roklee]

Polar

[Britexpat76]

Just seen you put 116710? - my bad for not noticing it was late! For me I don't like the newer case shape and lugs so would always look at a used 16710 and its more comparable with the 16570.

As I've commented again, I shall add one more thing. Do you want a Rolex that looks like a Rolex and that people will notice? If so go for the 16710 get a used Pepsi or Coke and a spare bezel insert.

If you want a Rolex that flys under the radar a bit more - a bit more subtle and discreet get the Explorer 11 - They are both beauties though and I wouldn't part with either of mine

[Chrispare]

Both are wonderful
You cannot be wrong with one of these watches !

[rustyduck]

GMT II. classic.

[Touring]

16570. Do not like the maxi-case of the 116710.

16570 vs a 16710/16700/16760/16750/1675 on the other hand...it would be a toss-up.

[pexus]

Very tough choice. Its the eternal GMT vs Explorer debate. Furthermore, its also about a 6-digit modern rolex vs the good old 5 digits series.

From your description, i will go for the polar. You described it as something that will captivate your attention for a long time.
If possible, look for a later model, fitted with a 3186 movement.

All the best

[SeaDweller50]

Originally Posted by Britexpat76

Just seen you put 116710? - my bad for not noticing it was late! For me I don't like the newer case shape and lugs so would always look at a used 16710 and its more comparable with the 16570.

As I've commented again, I shall add one more thing. Do you want a Rolex that looks like a Rolex and that people will notice? If so go for the 16710 get a used Pepsi or Coke and a spare bezel insert.

If you want a Rolex that flys under the radar a bit more - a bit more subtle and discreet get the Explorer 11 - They are both beauties though and I wouldn't part with either of mine

This.

[toomuchtalk]

I love the explorer; and the GMT- so have both. 5 digit ref.
Yet; if only one I would go GMT- the same functions but a rotatable bezel.

[watchwatcher]

The 116710 is one of the best modern Rolexes, IMO. So that would be my choice. The newer bracelet alone is worth it.

[AK797]

Originally Posted by watchwatcher

The 116710 is one of the best modern Rolexes, IMO. So that would be my choice. The newer bracelet alone is worth it.

Double 1 for me too, Mr Bond.

[Urosfan]

Polar

[tkerrmd]

Originally Posted by watchwatcher

The 116710 is one of the best modern Rolexes, IMO. So that would be my choice. The newer bracelet alone is worth it.

Agree

[Roller07]

I say neither. Maybe a 16710,16700,16760,16750.

[Raven52]

16570

[lastshotkid]

Tough choice but I was in the same spot before and ended up with the 16570 Polar White.

Couldn't be happier👍🏼



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[DocJekl]

I don't think they are so similar that you shouldn't have both a 16570 and a 16710.

I'd start with a Polar Explorer from 2000 or later, so you have good superluminova lume to light up the dial at night. It doesn't have to be an M, V or G from 2008-2011, as the 3185 movement is just fine. Mine from 1993 with tritium dial can still be read in the dark with the dial 4" from my eyes, but if you have a choice get one that's newer.

I don't like most of the current "fat lug" models these days, except for my new Polar Explorer II 216570 which seems to have the proper proportions of the older Rolex watches.

Then save up and find a nice coke bezel 16710 from 2000 or later as well. Good luck!

[SeaAndSky]

Originally Posted by watchwatcher

The 116710 is one of the best modern Rolexes, IMO. So that would be my choice. The newer bracelet alone is worth it.

Agree! It really is a superb watch. The BLNR is the pinnacle of GMT watch evolution.