Over the past few years, the level of hype surrounding the Rolex sports model has increased significantly, both old and new. Some are taken for granted, while others are more controversial. This creates a huge shadow under which references that are easier to obtain or phase out will be forced to disappear. Take a closer look at these forgotten models and you’ll find some really underrated references that are likely to be rather cheap and, in the coming years, likely to be the center of attention. Let’s see more details below. 
When Rolex launched the newest Explorer II ref. 216570 in 2011, there was much fanfare around the return of the orange 24-hour hand, itself a nod to the reference 1655 “Freccione” Explorer II of the 1970s. The new Explorer II replaced the outgoing reference 16570, a replica watch that had the small hour markers, smaller case, no orange 24-hour hand, and a suddenly dated appearance. But, on the wrist, a different story is taking shape. The 16570 may not have much in the way of throwback design, but it does have throwback charm in how it wears, in other words, slim on the wrist in both diameter and case thickness. This is because of the 16750’s long production period, which began in the ’80s, well before all the “big watch” nonsense took hold in the mid-2000s. Yep, you can even find examples with tritium dials.
The white or “Polar” dial is a fan favorite with its contrasting black house surrounds and hands, and happens to look good on pretty much any style of strap you dare throw on it. There’s a lot more history there than we’ve gone into here, but if you’re interested in learning more about these watches, read Philipp Stahl’s article. Before the fake rolex actually owned any tool table, the corner chart was a reference to the rotating border with the time limit, making it an ideal tool table. It was even used by Thunderbirds, the US air force, to make the brand’s first military watches.
The Rolex Air-King is an often misunderstood model, but the latest addition to the family, the ref. 116900, is unique in some ways. The Air-King has traditionally been the entry-level Rolex, offered in time-only configurations with a chronometer movement and a bit of water resistance thrown in for good measure. It’s basically Rolex hallmarks boiled down to its simplest form. 
There’s also the green seconds hand and Rolex signage, and the retro “Air-King” label at 6 o’clock—this isn’t your average Rolex. That funky personality may take a while to sink in, but it’s also what makes this a truly special watch from a brand not known for their progressive nature.
Being a modern replica Rolex, you’ll find many of the amenities that come with it, such as the 3131 movement inside, the magnetic resistance, Chromalight on the dial—all the usual suspects. Will these ever be future classics? In addition, they are a great way to stand out in a room full of Submarines and Daytona