Rare Watches, Magnificent Jewels & Objets de Vertu 14 January 2019 | Monaco

Auction Details

Include Rare Watches, Magnificent Jewels & Objets de Vertu.

115 Rolex Explorer ii, Ref16550, “rail Dial”, Stainless Steel

Estimate: € 7,000 –⁠ 10,000

Sold € 13,000

Lot Description

Model: Explorer II
Material: Stainless steel
Reference N°: 16550
Year: Circa 1985
Case N°: 9677923
Caliber: 3085 automatic
Bracelet: Rolex Oyster, stainless steel bracelet
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Case, dial and bracelet

The first explorer was launched by Rolex in 1953 for a famous mountaineer in a legendary ascent on Everest Mount. Rolex only produced the 16550 for about four years, from 1985 to 1989, making it a rather rare model amongst its peers. The white dial of this 16550 has taken on attractive patina. The glossy white dial remains in a crisp white color while the luminous tritium has aged to a wonderful vintage yellow color. The present lot would be a lovely addition to any fine sports watch collectors.

Montre Rolex en acier, modèle Explorer II « Rail Dial », réf. 16 550. Cette référence fut produite seulement de 1985 à 1989. Le cadran est d’un blanc éclatant tandis que le tritium lumineux a vieilli jusqu’à une magnifique couleur jaune vintage, qualités très recherchées par les amateurs de montres vintage.