Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16550 in Steel

CIRCA: 1986
REF.: 16550
CASE NUMBER: 9376035
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless steel
CASE DIMENSIONS: 40 mm diameter
DIAL: Cream color "Rail Dial" with tritium luminous indices
BRACELET MATERIAL: Rolex Oyster stainless steel, ref. 78360 with 501 end links
BRACELET SIZE: 7-3/4 inches
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time, date, 24-hour indication
CALIBER: 3085

Rolex produced the Explorer II reference 16550 for only four years, from 1985 to 1989. The reference 16550 was an upgrade from the predecesor, reference 1655 (lot 48 in this sale) in that it had an independent hour hand to track a second timezone with an upgraded movement. One of the more interesting aspects of reference 16550 is that the white dial modelsÑdue to a defect in the paintÑturned to a nice cream or ivory color. Rolex later corrected this defect, but you now have an opportunity to buy a beautiful creamy dial Explorer II, made even more rare and collectible by the short, four-year production cycle. This example is furthermore distinguished by its highly-desirable "Rail Dial", meaning there is a straight gap down of the middle of Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified.

Accompanied by original presentation and outer boxes, warranty and hang tag.

Property of a New York Collector