The Rolex Explorer II Reference 16550 holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. A direct successor to the legendary Reference 1655 "Freccione" (named for its prominent, arrow-shaped orange 24-hour hand), the 16550 refined and improved upon its predecessor, solidifying its position as a robust and highly sought-after tool watch. This article will delve into the specifics of the 16550, exploring its history, specifications, variations, and current market value, addressing the key search terms: Rolex Explorer 16550 price; Rolex Explorer 16550 specs; Rolex Explorer II size chart; Rolex 16550 for sale; Rolex Explorer II diamond bezel; Rolex 16550 review; Rolex Explorer II size comparison; and Rolex Explorer II polar dial.
From 1655 to 16550: A Legacy of Exploration
The original Rolex Explorer II, Reference 1655, introduced in 1971, was designed for spelunking and cave exploration. Its defining feature, the bright orange 24-hour hand, allowed explorers to easily distinguish between day and night in the dark depths of caves. This crucial function, combined with its robust build and exceptional reliability, quickly established the Explorer II as a benchmark in professional tool watches.
The Reference 16550, introduced in 1989, inherited this legacy but brought significant improvements. While retaining the core functionality of its predecessor – the independent 24-hour hand for a second time zone – the 16550 showcased Rolex's ongoing commitment to innovation and refinement. The changes weren't purely cosmetic; they represented a significant leap in both functionality and aesthetics.
Rolex Explorer 16550 Specs: A Detailed Examination
The Rolex Explorer II 16550 boasts a compelling array of specifications:
* Movement: Caliber 3085, a self-winding mechanical movement with a 48-hour power reserve. This movement, a significant upgrade from the 1570 in the 1655, offered improved accuracy and reliability.
* Case: 40mm stainless steel Oyster case, known for its water resistance (to 100 meters/330 feet) and robustness. This size provided a comfortable wearability for a wider range of wrists compared to its predecessor.
* Crystal: Sapphire crystal, highly resistant to scratches, a significant improvement over the acrylic crystal found on the 1655. This ensured the dial and hands remained pristine even under harsh conditions.
* Bezel: Fixed, graduated 24-hour bezel, made of aluminum. This bezel, in conjunction with the 24-hour hand, enabled accurate tracking of a second time zone. While not as durable as a ceramic bezel, the aluminum bezel contributed to the watch's overall lightness.
* Dial: The 16550 is known for its various dial variations, including the iconic "Polar" dial (with white background and black markers), as well as black dials. The luminous markers and hands offered excellent legibility in low-light conditions.
* Bracelet: Typically fitted with a solid Oyster bracelet, offering both comfort and durability.
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