Introduction
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.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 9.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, Papers, Hang Tags, Booklets
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
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.
Condition
The watch is in new-old-stock condition. The steel case and bezel show only the slightest marks from handling or storage. The black rail dial has developed some natural surface crazing/spidering, but is otherwise untouched. Comes complete with boxes, papers, booklet, paper holder and hangtags.
Our Perspective
Perhaps one of the unsung heroes of vintage Rolex, the Explorer II is a timepiece that has earned its right to enjoy the same level of status and admiration as any other vintage Rolex, thanks to its unique use case and distinctive aesthetic.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
