Rolex Explorer II 216570

2015 Rolex Explorer II 'UK Attack Helicopter Force'

This Rolex Explorer II is offered in the UK by a private seller. One of just 48 pieces commissioned exclusively for serving members of the UK’s Attack Helicopter Force during the Afghanistan campaign. Presented with a display box, outer box and sleeve, guarantee card and manual, wallet, user instructions, and swing tags. Also included in the lot is a spare link where the bracelet has been sized. The vendor confirms the watch to be in good working order. The rugged and GMT-equipped Rolex Explorer II is fast becoming a collectors’ favourite, representing a steel sports watch with a difference. Introduced in 2011 and discontinued in 2021, the reference marked a significant update to the Explorer II line, most notably through its enlarged 42mm case and the return of the prominent orange GMT hand, a design cue inspired by the original 1971 Explorer II. Distinctive to the model is its fixed brushed steel 24-hour bezel, used in conjunction with the orange hand to display a second time zone. Powering the watch is Rolex’s calibre 3187, an automatic chronometer-certified movement offering GMT functionality and a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch also features 100 metres of water resistance and is fitted to a satin-finished Oyster bracelet, reinforcing its practical and durable character. This particular example is part of an exceptionally limited series commissioned to commemorate the UK’s deployment of the Attack Helicopter Force during the Afghanistan campaign. Produced in a run of just 48 individually numbered pieces, and available only to serving members of the unit through a London-based Rolex retailer, the watch features a specially engraved caseback depicting an Apache helicopter set against a Union Jack flag, distinguishing it from the standard production model.