Rolex Explorer II 16550 c.1986
Rolex Explorer II 16550 c.1986
£7,995.00
Description
We are delighted to be able this remarkable timepiece which is considered to be the bridge between then old-style retro looking Explorers and its modern successors. It is in fact the first five digit Explorer II which along with its new and in our view more aesthetic looks also brought massive improvements which basically laid the foundation for what we now know as the modern Explorer II.
The Rolex Explorer II 16550 is a transitional model which adds more value in the eye of every collector. It was produced between 1984 and 1989 which makes it a real collectible. The introduction of the 16550 was accompanied by a number of new model-defining features:
- case was increased from 39mm to 40mm
- bezel engravings changed
- acrylic glass was replaced by sapphire crystal
- dotted hour markers replaced the square markers
- the white dial was introduced
Perhaps the biggest change was to be found when exploring the movement of the watch. The automatic caliber 3085 replaced its predecessor 1500 series movement which brough a number of changes too - hacking seconds, a quickset function for the date and an independent arrow hand.
In our view, this is a truly remarkable timepiece well worth of its place in history. Due to its age, we had to complete a full overhaul worth £960 which apart from some mechanical swaps required a glass replacement as it was in no-marketable state in addition to the hands being re-lumed.
Please inquire for further images or more information.
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Product REF: CHW5145
