Vintage Rolex Explorer II 16550 White sold on watchPool24

Description ▲

This Rolex Explorer 16550 dates from 1986 and is a rare transitional reference. The watch features a fixed 24-hour bezel, a 24-hour hand and a separately adjustable hour hand.

In the world of Rolex vintage watches, transitional references possess characteristics of previous references while introducing new modifications that pave the way for future references. Introduced in 1985 as the successor of 1655 the transitional reference 16550 was fitted with the improved Rolex caliber 3085. Setting the hour hand independently of the 24-hour hand made the new Explorer a GMT watch that could display a second time zone. In addition, the new movement featured the helpful quickset date mechanism for the first time in a Explorer.

The reference 16550 also brought innovations with it in terms of design. For the first time, the Explorer came with a white dial protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. After around 4 years production of reference 16550 came to an end. Today it is considered one of the rare and sought-after Rolex vintage watches.

Condition report
Dial: absolutely flawless white dial, original and matching tritium lume in hands and hour markers, signed "SWISS - T<25".

Case: unpolished, light natural signs of wear, sharp lugs, perfect bezel.

Movement: Rolex automatic caliber 3085, timegrapher +/-5 s/d.

Bracelet: natural signs of wear, little stretch, reference 78360, end links 501B, clasp code I8 (1984).

Conclusion
Due to its rarity and great condition, this classic Explorer 16550 meets the most important collector's criteria. And its reliability and helpful functions make it a wristwatch suitable for everyday wear.

Serial number: 9677xxx (1986)

Int.Exe.: 62438

Features ▲

Manufacturer: Rolex

Model: Explorer II

Reference: 16550

Functions: date - central second - COSC certified chronometer - 24 hours display, day and night display - hacking second - screw-down crown - hour and minute - quickset date - screwed-on caseback

Intricacies: GMT / dual timezone

Material: Stainless steel

Dial: white

Watch glass: sapphire glass

Bracelet: stainless steel

Type of clasp: deployant buckle

Diameter: 40mm

Caliber name: Rolex 3085

Movement type: automatic

Year of Manufacture: 1986

Overall condition: 9 - has rarely been worn - top condition

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