Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16550

Technical characteristics

Type

GMT wristwatch

Maker

Rolex

Movement

Rolex caliber 3085

Case Size

40mm

Reference

16550

Lume Material

Tritium

Bracelet Model

78360

Production Period

1984-1989

Bracelet End Links

501

Maker / attribution

Rolex

Design

Case and Dial

The watch is housed in a 40mm stainless steel case that the auction description reports is in excellent condition. The lugs appear full and symmetrical, displaying mild wear and minor evidence of prior polishing. The fixed stainless steel 24-hour bezel, which features large engraved numerals, is described by the source as original. It shows only slight loss to the black enamel fill and minor surface wear. The black dial is presented as original and in excellent condition for its age, exhibiting a textured, semi-matte patina that the source notes occasionally appears on this specific reference. The tritium hour markers have developed a deep cream-colored patina, while the original tritium-filled hands match the dial, although they are noted to be slightly lighter in color. The date window features a white disk with open sixes and nines.

Visible features

• Black dial with indices featuring white gold surrounds • 24-hour fixed stainless steel bezel with large numeral engraving • Oyster bracelet model 78360 with 501 end links • Cream-colored tritium patina on dial markers and hands

Movement and Bracelet

This example is equipped with the Rolex caliber 3085 movement. A notable functional feature of this movement is the jumping hour hand, a characteristic it shares with the GMT-Master II models sometimes referred to as the 'Fat Lady'. The watch is fitted with an Oyster bracelet, model 78360, which bears a date code of 'I'. It utilizes the rare 501 end links. The bracelet consists of 12 links and, according to the provided report, shows minor stretching and light wear. It is sized to accommodate a wrist measurement of up to 7.25 inches.

Authentication and Condition Reports

The provided documentation emphasizes the originality of the componentry, stating that the dial, bezel, and bracelet are original to the watch. The source reports that ultraviolet light testing conducted on the dial and hands shows no signs of degradation in the tritium lume. The object is being sold without any accompanying box or papers. All details concerning the history and condition are attributed to the source. The description notes that this information and the associated claims are provided by the vendor, and they do not constitute an independent assessment of the watch's authenticity or internal mechanical state.

Identification

Reference

16550

Serial number

84XXXXX

Source note

Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.

Catalogue references

No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.