THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 16550
YEAR: 1986
BOX/PAPERS: YES/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
Introducing the Rolex Explorer II reference 16550, a remarkable transitional piece that sculpted the modern look of the Explorer II series. Produced for only a slender four years - from 1985 to 1989 - this reference stands as a rare jewel among neo-vintage Explorers, embodying an assortment of subtle transformations, likely inspired by Rolex designers' creative bursts (and perhaps a caffeine rush or two).
At its core, the watch is driven by the calibre 3085, a substantial leap forward from its predecessor, the 1655. With its quick-set date mechanism, hacking seconds, a 42-hour power reserve, and the novel feature of an independent GMT hand, it offers the modern explorer the ability to track multiple time zones effortlessly. Much like other transitional Rolex models, the 16550 went through several dial variations in just 4 years - early examples on the white dials featured white gold surrounds on the hour markers (rarer and more collectable), whereas later examples feather black surrounds. The black dial variant such as this example retained white gold surround throughout production.
The dial on this is spectacular, the original tritium on both the hands and the dial have aged to a dark cream colour, the original date wheel has faded also. The case and correct fat serif font bezel are in great condition, the lugs are nice and fat, as are the crown guards. The bracelet has a DE1 code meaning it was replaced in 2001, it is the correct 78360 however and is fully linked with minimal stretch.
The movement is in great health, its running at -5 s/d, 260 amps with a beat error of 0.2.
The watch comes with its original box with 16550 sticker.