Rolex Explorer II 16550

Rolex Explorer II 16550 Black Rail Dial Box and Papers Like New

Debuting in 1971, the Rolex Explorer II was released to satiate the demand for a relatively niche timepiece for a particular type of explorer, Spelunkers, or cave explorers as we may call them. Made only of steel, the Explorer II's construction ensures that none of its parts might crack or break off against a rock in cramped conditions, such as a bezel insert. With this use in mind, the Explorer II originally featured its iconic arrow-shaped 24-hour hand to differentiate between AP and PM for spelunkers that might lose track of the day and night cycle while they were in caves for days at a time. The modern Explorer II models have had this function exchanged for a fully operational GMT-hand. Featuring its signature fixed stainless-steel bezel, arrow-shaped 2nd hour hand, and robust design, the Explorer II makes for an incredible jack-of-all-trades timepiece as it comprises of just about everything your modern exploring needs might demand. Whether you're 500m under a mountain, 30m underwater, or 10,000m in the air on a trans-Atlantic flight, the Explorer II has you covered. Brand : Rolex Dimensions : 40mm Model : Explorer II Movement : Automatic cal. 3085 Reference : 16550 Bracelet : Stainless Steel Oyster bracelet Year : 1986 Condition : New Old Stock Material : Stainless steel Included : Watch, box, and papers Dial Color : Black THE DIAL Offered with its original hands and rail dial, this example's tritium luminescent material has aged to contain a warm creamy yellow undertone that pops against the black dial. THE CONSTRUCTION Offered in new old stock condition, this ref. 16550 boasts its original angular font 'long 1' bezel in perfect condition, and thick lug bevels that signify just how well looked after this example has been over the decades. TIMING MACHINE READOUT This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.