The Rolex Explorer II “Chicchi di Mais” is a well-known collector’s nickname (Italian for corn kernels) used to describe a very specific group of early white-dial 16570 examples produced around the late 1980s and early 1990s. Their defining feature is the tritium lume on the hour markers, which has aged into a rich, creamy yellow tone reminiscent of corn kernels.

The presented watch is preserved at an exceptional level. The case appears original and unpolished, with sharp factory finishing and beautifully defined lugs. The dial, hands, bezel, and sapphire crystal are all in outstanding condition. The tritium indices have developed an even, deep creamy patina that gives the watch a truly striking and almost unreal presence. At the moment, it is difficult to find another 16570 “Chicchi di Mais” on the market in comparable condition.

Special attention should also be paid to the set. This is a fully collector-grade example, complete with everything originally supplied at the time of purchase in the late 1980s — a rare and highly desirable configuration today.

The watch shows only very minor, honest signs of wear and remains an exceptional, near-impossible-to-replicate piece.

Set includes
• Watch
• Outer box
• Inner box with cushion
• Rolex Oyster booklet
• Rolex Explorer booklet
• Document wallet
• Period calendar matching the sale date
• Warranty conditions
• Brown hang tag
• Green hang tag
• Additional bracelet link
• Warranty card (L-Serial, 1989)