Rolex Explorer 11 16550 1986

Brand: Rolex

Design: Explorer II Watch Explorer Collection

Case Material: Steel

Movement: Automatic

Case Dimensions: Height: 1.54 in (39 mm) Width: 1.54 in (39 mm)

Period: 1980-1989

Date of Manufacture: 1986

Condition: Good Repaired: As per description. Wear consistent with age and use.

This remarkable timepiece is considered to be the model that bridges between the then old-style retro looking Explorers and its modern successors. It is in fact the first five digit Explorer II which along with its new and in our view more aesthetic looks also brought massive improvements which basically laid the foundation for what we now know as the modern Explorer II.

The Rolex Explorer II 16550 is a transitional model which adds more value in the eye of every collector. It was produced between 1984 and 1989 which makes it a real collectible. The introduction of the 16550 was accompanied by a number of new model-defining features:

- case was increased from 39mm to 40mm

- bezel engravings changed

- acrylic glass was replaced by sapphire crystal

- dotted hour markers replaced the square markers

Perhaps the biggest change was to be found when exploring the movement of the watch. The automatic caliber 3085 replaced its predecessor 1500 series movement with which came a number of changes too - hacking seconds, a quickset function for the date and an independent arrow hand.

This is a truly remarkable timepiece, well worthy of its place in history.

Due to its age, we gave it a full overhaul worth 960. Some mechanical swaps and a glass replacement as it was in no-marketable state, in addition we also had the hands re-lumed and added a new dial also.

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