The Rolex Explorer II, a watch synonymous with adventure and exploration, has captivated watch enthusiasts for decades. While various iterations exist, the 16550 with its creamy, subtly aged dial holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. This guide delves deep into the Rolex Explorer II 16550, specifically focusing on the highly sought-after cream dial variant, exploring its history, features, variations, and current market value, placing it within the context of the broader Explorer II lineage and its modern counterparts.
A Legacy of Exploration: From 1655 to 16550
The story of the Rolex Explorer II begins with the reference 1655, introduced in the late 1960s. Designed for explorers and adventurers navigating challenging environments, particularly in low-light conditions, the 1655 featured a highly legible dial, robust construction, and, crucially, a 24-hour hand. This independent hand allowed wearers to easily distinguish between AM and PM, a vital feature in environments where the sun's position might be unreliable for timekeeping. The 1655, with its distinctive "GMT-Master-esque" hand configuration and often-patinaed dials, has become a highly collectible piece in its own right.
The Rolex Explorer II 16550, launched in 1985, represents the second generation of this iconic watch. It built upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, refining the design and incorporating several key improvements. One of the most significant changes was the movement. The 16550 utilized the caliber 3085, a significantly improved movement compared to the 1575 found in the 1655. This upgrade resulted in enhanced reliability and accuracy. The case size also saw a slight increase, although still maintaining a relatively compact profile compared to modern Explorer II models.
The Alluring Cream Dial: A Mark of Distinction
While the 16550 came in various dial colors, the cream dial variant stands out. The subtle creamy hue, often described as "tropical" due to its tendency to age and darken over time, adds a unique character and vintage appeal. This isn't a uniform cream; instead, it exhibits subtle variations in tone, often displaying a richer, deeper cream in certain areas, adding to its desirability. The cream dial, combined with the characteristically aged lume, creates a truly captivating aesthetic that has cemented its status as a highly sought-after collector's item. The aging process is entirely natural, resulting from the interaction of the dial's materials with light and environmental factors over time. This natural patina is a key element of the watch's charm and contributes significantly to its value. It’s a testament to the watch’s longevity and the unique story it tells.
Technical Specifications and Features of the 16550:
* Case: 40mm stainless steel Oyster case
* Movement: Caliber 3085, automatic, self-winding
* Dial: Various colors, including the highly sought-after cream dial
* Hands: Hour, minute, seconds, and 24-hour hand
* Crystal: Sapphire crystal (later models) or acrylic (early models)
* Bezel: Fixed, graduated 24-hour bezel
* Water Resistance: 100 meters (330 feet)
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