菜單
菜單
[gtranslate]
菜單
Brand：Rolex
Collection：Explorer II
Reference：16550
Accessories：Watch Only (Produced circa 1984)
Condition：Excellent Condition (Approx. 95%)
Location：Taipei, Taiwan
Case Material：Stainless Steel
Case Diameter：40 mm
Dial：Cream Dial
Movement：Cal. 3085 Automatic Movement
Power Reserve：48 hours
Water Resistance：100 meters
“An iconic transitional Explorer II, distinguished by its coveted cream dial.”
The Explorer II ref. 16550 is a significant transitional reference introduced in the mid-1980s within the Explorer II lineage. This example, produced in 1984, is powered by the Rolex Cal. 3085 automatic movement, marking the official introduction of the independently adjustable 24-hour hand — a key technical foundation that would later define both the Explorer II and GMT series. This piece features the early “Cream Dial,” originally white dials that gradually developed a warm cream patina over time. The color transition on this example is natural and evenly aged, making it one of the most recognizable dial configurations among ref. 16550 models. Compared to later stable white dials, cream dials are far rarer due to the strict preservation conditions required, earning them strong recognition among collectors and in the vintage market. The 40 mm stainless steel case paired with a fixed 24-hour bezel preserves the Explorer II’s classic tool-watch identity. Meanwhile, the Cal. 3085 movement also served as an important technical base for the later GMT-Master II, giving the ref. 16550 a clear historical role within Rolex’s professional sports watch lineage. Well-preserved cream dial examples with strong originality are regarded today as one of the most collectible configurations within the Explorer II series.