Rolex Explorer II, Reference 16550
photo: sotheby’s
Designed with a 24-hour bezel and a luminous 24-hour big arrow hand, the Rolex Explorer II reference 16550 is a watch that was dedicated to those who spent long periods of time in dark environments such as spelunkers.
The present example of the reference 16550 features an uncommon "rail dial” which refers to the spacing between the text "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified", creating a visual break due to the alignment. Furthermore, the collectivity of the watch is enhanced with its rich ivory tone dial, which is a result of it aging beautifully over many years.
photo: sotheby’s
Dial: cream
Calibre: cal. 3085 automatic, 27 jewels
Case: stainless steel, screw down case back
Case number: 9'673'878
Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp
Size: 39 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 175 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
