16570 as sole travel watch?

[dmash]

Short and simple, wanting something a bit more ‘lowkey’ than ceramic 6 digits as a travel piece. Perused a lot (from different brands) and what looked to fit the bill best was a 16570 Polar.

With that being said, do 5 digit ExpII owners have any thoughts? Essentially I’m wanting to utilize this as my sole travel watch, bringing nothing else with me. This means a true 1 watch functionality from a nice dinner to jumping in the ocean. Planning on a newer model with the 3186, complete set, if anyone had input on what they consider a fair deal, I’m all ears.

*I did consider a 16710, but aside from the obvious price difference, I just really enjoy the look of the white dial + SS bezel.

[Dsmith1974]

Yep. Was going to say 16710 unless you like the white dial. So easy choice!


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[Maxy]

Originally Posted by dmash

Short and simple, wanting something a bit more ‘lowkey’ than ceramic 6 digits as a travel piece. Perused a lot (from different brands) and what looked to fit the bill best was a 16570 Polar.

With that being said, do 5 digit ExpII owners have any thoughts? Essentially I’m wanting to utilize this as my sole travel watch, bringing nothing else with me. This means a true 1 watch functionality from a nice dinner to jumping in the ocean. Planning on a newer model with the 3186, complete set, if anyone had input on what they consider a fair deal, I’m all ears.

*I did consider a 16710, but aside from the obvious price difference, I just really enjoy the look of the white dial + SS bezel.

It's a great solo travel watch. If I can suggest, don't get into the 'newer' movement hype of 3186, there's hardly much different from 3185 and even those 3186 had some issues. Just buy a regular 3185 and enjoy it!

[Oyster Sauce]

Yes, with the exception of traveling to areas known for high rates of robbery. For basic functionality and ruggedness, the 16570 is a sweet spot.

[Golden Ellipse]

Originally Posted by dmash

Short and simple, wanting something a bit more ‘lowkey’ than ceramic 6 digits as a travel piece. Perused a lot (from different brands) and what looked to fit the bill best was a 16570 Polar.

With that being said, do 5 digit ExpII owners have any thoughts? Essentially I’m wanting to utilize this as my sole travel watch, bringing nothing else with me. This means a true 1 watch functionality from a nice dinner to jumping in the ocean. Planning on a newer model with the 3186, complete set, if anyone had input on what they consider a fair deal, I’m all ears.

*I did consider a 16710, but aside from the obvious price difference, I just really enjoy the look of the white dial + SS bezel.

The other disadvantage, if this matters to you, is that the 16710 bezel really chews up shirt cuffs over time. If it’s between the 16710 and 16570 for business travel, then the 16570 wins for friendliness to shirts....but if you have the freedom to travel casual...then it’s a wash...

[Rado63]

The condition of the five digit case is always the first concern. The 3186 did have some issues with the movement and if you find one it may have been corrected by Rolex service or service by someone. which leads me back to case condition. The price of these has literally doubled in under the past 5 years so price on an excellent condition full kit 3186 movement will be expensive. But the price is only relevant to the condition and your desire to own one. I don't feel we can compare the price to a current reference 216570 which is $8350. If you are doing that comparison and asking is it worth the price to buy something pre owned then you are buying a 16570 for the wrong reasons. I am sure it would serve well as an everyday one watch, my issue has always been with many poorly polished examples of both the case and the bezel. So you must look carefully. Don't expect prices to go down if you wait.

[rolexest]

Its a great travel watch. I would choose the 16710 just for the fact that I could buy a black, coke and pepsi bezel for variety. The polar dial is very nice though.

[rmagoo57]

The 16570 Polar is an excellent travel watch. I recently picked one up and plan to wear it when traveling especially down to Cancun/Playa or Cabo. You can probably find a nice mid-late 2000's (D,Z,M,V) example right here on TRF!

[Lamontsanders]

5 digit GMTs (GMT master II and/or Explorer II) are good for travel just make sure it's sealed up in case you go for a swim.

[dmash]

Originally Posted by Rado63

The condition of the five digit case is always the first concern. The 3186 did have some issues with the movement and if you find one it may have been corrected by Rolex service or service by someone. which leads me back to case condition. The price of these has literally doubled in under the past 5 years so price on an excellent condition full kit 3186 movement will be expensive. But the price is only relevant to the condition and your desire to own one. I don't feel we can compare the price to a current reference 216570 which is $8350. If you are doing that comparison and asking is it worth the price to buy something pre owned then you are buying a 16570 for the wrong reasons. I am sure it would serve well as an everyday one watch, my issue has always been with many poorly polished examples of both the case and the bezel. So you must look carefully. Don't expect prices to go down if you wait.

I have no qualms with the price whatsoever.

*but* my one hesitation is to possibly see what Rolex releases next year (inevitably) for the 50th anniversary. If they decreased the case size back down to 41 (or even 40) that would definitely peak my interest.

Then again, even if they do make it smaller, it’s still not going to have 5 digit charm

[fskywalker]

The polar is a great pick for that purpose!


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[Brian Page]

Love that reference - Great choice

[samson66]

I went with a Tudor GMT as my travel watch. I didn't want to have to worry about being in areas where my Rolex might make me a target. Tudor flies a little under the radar and I actually prefer it over the older Rolex GMT's of which it is similar to in appearance.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by dmash

Short and simple, wanting something a bit more ‘lowkey’ than ceramic 6 digits as a travel piece. Perused a lot (from different brands) and what looked to fit the bill best was a 16570 Polar.

With that being said, do 5 digit ExpII owners have any thoughts? Essentially I’m wanting to utilize this as my sole travel watch, bringing nothing else with me. This means a true 1 watch functionality from a nice dinner to jumping in the ocean. Planning on a newer model with the 3186, complete set, if anyone had input on what they consider a fair deal, I’m all ears.

*I did consider a 16710, but aside from the obvious price difference, I just really enjoy the look of the white dial + SS bezel.

Surely any watch could be a travel watch even a Casio or Seiko and given the choice I would take a 3185 movement over the 3186 any day. This 3186 stuff is well overhyped mainly by the sellers and the net. The 3185 is a very robust and accurate movement that did not have the problems the 3186 had its its life.

[Tools]

The 16570 is a great travel watch, especially if you are jumping time-zones. I wear one as my only watch when travelling frequently.

There is no reason to look for a 3186, it is not a "superior" upgrade to the tried and proven 3185.

[phamou]

I too am shopping a 16570 as a travel watch.

Have you considered an explorer i? I currently have a 114270 36mm and i think it fits the bill perfectly. Can also be dressed up too and is lowkey enough so people don’t notice or get it stolen!

[jamesbondOO7]

A great travel watch. The white dial looks interesting, but I am pretty sure that in the long run, the black dial is prettier.

[Beto737]

I’ve had both, white dial and black dial. Today, I own a black dial 3186 16570. I travel quite a bit and thus the reason I own it.

It is not as convenient as a GMT master II, or a piece where you can change time zones with a push of a button. But if you don’t change time zones very often, it’s perfect. It can also go under the radar if you put it on a rubber or leather strap.

Mine does not have to stay in my hotel room when I go for a walk or for a swim. It’s a magnificent travel companion. Get one while they’re still relatively affordable...

[iliketime]

Definitely, it served nicely for my month in Europe last year

[TopDog2315]

Originally Posted by jamesbondOO7

A great travel watch. The white dial looks interesting, but I am pretty sure that in the long run, the black dial is prettier.

Couldn't agree more!

[MRPWRPATX21]

Great watch, great travel watch, great solo watch, great all around watch. It's just a good buy, IMO.

I would, however, not focus on the 3186 movements...you aren't getting a proportional increase in watch relative to the price premium you would pay.

[iTreelex]

Black over polar. Polar is hyped as well as the 3186 but you can't go wrong with a 16570. I don't think it's worth a fool's premium to be honest.

[Eapfep]

I have the white dial 16570 and can attest it's a fantastic travel watch. Similar to many people on this forum - I do not like drawing any undue attention when I'm travelling as the unnecessary stress is not worth it in my opinion.

On a rubber strap - it is particularly discrete while still remaining sporty and comfortable.

[173rdabn]

Great travel watch and not really flashy. I upgraded mine for a 216570.

[rmagoo57]

plus, it's light and comfortable!!!

[e dantes]

The 16570 Polar is a great travel watch. It is under the radar. The second time zone is also handy. It has been my go to watch for trips since I got it. Strongly recommend it. I have added a 97200 Glide Lock bracelet for the warmer months.

The 3185 is a very reliable movement; no point in getting the 3186 in my opinion.

[Rebel]

[Nikrnic]

I have a 16710 and a 216570 and I'm sure you'll love to have a 16570 as a one and only travel and everything piece really. Although the money is relevant for the hyped 3186 movement its no better than the 3185 which will leave you more room to pay for a full set if you choose although condition is the number one most important factor..I wouldn't rule out the black dial either.. Happy Hunting.

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[DCheeta]

I can’t think of a better one and only travel watch.

[Maximus84]

I've had my Z serial Polar 16570 for almost 5 years now and it's my go-to watch for work and travel.

I'm in the US and frequently have to reference GMT, and have travelled across several timezones in the last 2/3 years. It has been excellent - low-key, comfortable, enough WR for most activities, 'true' GMT function and is accurate to <1s p/d.