Watch Paparazzi

Actor Aaron Paul spotted wearing Rolex

At what appears to be a gaming industry event — the ZeniMax Media branding visible in the background pins the occasion likely to a Bethesda or id Software launch party circa 2012–2014 — Aaron Paul kept his wrist game deliberately low-key. Dressed in a plaid flannel shirt over a black tee, the Breaking Bad actor let the watch do the talking, and it spoke volumes to anyone paying attention.

The watch on Paul's wrist is a Rolex Explorer II Reference 16570 in stainless steel with a black dial. The 40mm Oyster case, stainless Oyster bracelet with solid-link construction, and the distinctive aluminum 24-hour graduated bezel insert are all clearly identifiable hallmarks of this reference. The black dial variant — sometimes called the 'blackout' by collectors — features baton hour markers, a date window at 3 o'clock, and the signature red-tipped GMT hand that sweeps the 24-hour bezel. Power comes from Rolex's Calibre 3185, a self-winding movement with a Parachrom hairspring, 48-hour power reserve, and independently adjustable hour hand — a practical GMT complication dressed in expedition clothing.

The 16570 occupies a unique position in Rolex collector culture. It bridges the gap between the cult-status Ref. 1655 'Steve McQueen' and the modern 216570, retaining the Explorer II's original raison d'être as a tool for spelunkers and polar explorers needing to distinguish AM from PM in environments without natural light. The aluminum bezel insert on the 16570 is now considered vintage-adjacent, giving it a warmth and patina potential the later steel bezel simply cannot replicate.

Aaron Paul's choice is consistent with a pattern seen among actors of his generation who favor functional, heritage-driven watches over flashier complications. The Explorer II is precisely the kind of piece a discerning collector wears to a loud event without feeling the need to explain it — it rewards those who already know.

On the grey market, the 16570 black dial commands strong and consistent demand. Values have appreciated meaningfully since the reference was discontinued in 2011, and well-serviced examples in full set condition regularly trade above original retail. For a watch that was once considered the overlooked sibling of the Explorer I, the 16570 has more than found its audience.