Advice on 16570 Polar:

[agehring75@gmail.com]

Hi there,

I'm in the market for a used 16570 Polar (40mm).

It seems that the 2009-2011 models with the 3186 movement and "Rehaut" command a substantial premium over the earlier models. What is the general opinion, is it worth to pay extra for the 2009 - 2011 models?

What do you guys think of the condition of the specific model shown in the attachments?

Thank you for any comments!

[Ragna]

Im no expert. But i liked it.

Between new and old models id preffer the ones with no holes case and solid endlinks.

But thats just me. There are those more adventurous who like holes case for quick strap change.

[dba]

I just don't think the 3186 movement is light years better than the 3185. I certainly wouldn't pay extra for it. For that type of money, I'd just get the newer 216570.

[Rado63]

I believe there were some issues with the 3186. The 3186 was also in the 116710 and any issues would be worked out by now. Problem is those new parts , if any, may only go in when the watch returns to RSC for a service. Since the 3186 appeared briefly in the 16570 it is interesting since fewer pieces out there with that movement. Personally I would take either the 3185, or the 3186. The 3185 is certainly time proven, I wouldn't obsess over the 3186. The issues with 3186 and 3187 versus 3185 have been discussed on the forum many times.

[DDDan]

Looks good, but if the engraved rehaut and updated caliber floats your boat, I’d go with a 216570

[CountryRoads]

I have this same 16570 and I like it that it’s the newest “old” reference. Most comfortable watch I own.

[Crazy Lugs]

Regardless of generation, my advice is to not purchase a 16570 polar sight unseen. I found that this particular piece presents quite differently in photos versus on wrist...although perhaps that could be said for any number of watches.

Happy hunting!

[kamonjj]

I say get what version you like most and don’t get too caught up in the movement debate. I’ve read a watchmaker article who thinks the 3185 is better.

I personally prefer the version without the engraved rehaut, SEL bracelet and holes case. It has the 3185 movement and I wouldn’t worry about it.

[bezler]

Originally Posted by DDDan

Looks good, but if the engraved rehaut and updated caliber floats your boat, I’d go with a 216570

But also consider that the balance and proportions of the 16570 case and dial are far more elegant than the 216570.

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[e dantes]

To me the 3186 is not worth it. The 3185 is a proven workhorse movement. I went with the 3185, SEL,and no holes case. All of them are good choice, just depends what you want.

This thread needs more photos.




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[importstunna]

I had the 3186 and sold it. It was probably the most comfortable watch I've owned. That said, I do not think it's worth the extra $ for the movement, you won't be able to tell a difference.

The example you attached looks pretty good. Likely a light polish was done since you can tell from the bezel pattern + colors off the markers. Nothing to be concerned about if the seller is legit.

[Ragna]

Originally Posted by bezler

but also consider that the balance and proportions of the 16570 case and dial are far more elegant than the 216570.

+1

[greendial]

I have a year 2000 “swiss only” dial with holes, 3185, love it. Spends 99% of its time on various NATO straps.

[gtruex]

I have a 2011 model with the 3186. Bought it years ago before the 3186 premium was even a thing. I love it. However, if I were to be in the market today for a 16570, I would not pay a premium for a 3186 movement. Get a nice example of a 3185 and pocket the extra money.

[RastabanStar]

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=515748

My 16570 with a 3186 movement experienced the broken hour click spring problem. It didn't cost anything extra for the servicing and has worked perfectly since. I also own a 3185 GMT Master 2 and I don't get any less enjoyment from the older movement. I wouldn't pay the 3186 premium unless you are buying for the "investment" potential.

While I am happy with my explorer, I'd go for a nice condition older model with tritium if I was going to spend the extra money.

[tkc324]

Not worth it for me, I rather get an older one that could patina.

[iliketime]

Ironically, I sought a polar without the rehaut but with 3186. I willingly paid a premium for that. Now having owned also a tritium dial version with 3185, it is not a monumental difference. The hour hand wiggles. That is probably the main noticeable difference I have observed.

[jbglx]

The 3185 vs 3186 issue was treated time and time again in this forum .
And is NO definitive answer to this !
It all comes to the price asked , the condition of the piece and if it comes with box and papers ... if all this boxes are ticked , then it comes the most important thing , IF YOU LIKE THE WATCH ! If this is so , buy it .
All this happened to me two years ago , and I bought the one is in my avatar , 3186 black , box and papers . And I´m very , very happy with it .

[aurenas]

To each his own. I have had 3186. But before buying please make sure it's 3186 inside. Don't trust RRR rehaut. I have had Late Z serial with RRR rehaut which was 3185 inside. So please either make tests (like wiggle test), or even better open caseback to be 100% sure

[erhein]

Originally Posted by greendial

I have a year 2000 “swiss only” dial with holes, 3185, love it. Spends 99% of its time on various NATO straps.

This is the one I have. I, too, gave some thought to a later model with the 3186 movement but came to the conclusion that the newer movement was not worth the prices that were being asked. The difference between solid and folded end links was more of a concern to me. There seems to be a clear preference for SELs. The one I bought came up for sale at a good price, however, from a reputable seller, so I took the leap. I had it serviced at Rolliworks and I have no regrets whatsoever. It keeps time to within 2 s/d and it is incredibly comfortable. As I wear it, I am oblivious to whether it has solid or folded end links. My suggestion is to buy the one which is the best example at the best price; have it serviced if necessary; and pay no attention to whether is has a 3185 or 3186, or solid or folded endlinks. You'll love it.

[Dennisoul]

I’ve got the 3185...it runs at + half a second per day....most comfortable watch I own....absolutely solid


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