Rolex is known for iconic timepieces that exhibit exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design. While Rolex continually strives for improvement and innovation, some of its watches have gained a special appeal among collectors due to certain deviations from the norm. One such example is the Rolex Explorer II ref 16550, particularly known for its cream-colored dials. In this article, we will explore the features of the Rolex Explorer II ref 16550 and delve into the reasons behind the cream dial variation.
The Rolex Explorer II ref 16550 was introduced in the 1980s as an upgraded version of its predecessor, the ref 1655. While the cream dial variant may initially seem unusual for an Explorer II, it has garnered significant interest and popularity over time. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key features of this remarkable timepiece.
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Why are some Rolex Explorer II dials cream in color?
Some Rolex Explorer II watches, specifically those with white dials, exhibit a cream-colored appearance. The reason for this is not related to the aging of luminescent paint, but rather a paint defect that occurred during the production of these watches.
It is important to note that this issue is specific to the watches with white dials, particularly in reference 16550 and some 16570 models, and not all Rolex Explorer II models. Cream colored dials are most common in rail-dial 16550 models, but also appear in non-rail dials with tritium lume marked T SWISS < 25 T at 6 o’clock. Moreover, there are also 16570 models with rail-dials that have this color but are far more rare.
During the manufacturing process, a small number of Rolex Explorer II watches were produced with a white paint that tended to discolor over time, resulting in a creamy or off-white appearance. This paint defect was unintentional and not part of Rolex’s design. However, as time passed, Rolex acknowledged the issue and made the necessary adjustments to rectify it.
Subsequent Rolex Explorer II watches were manufactured with improved paint quality, ensuring that the white dials remained white without developing the cream-colored discoloration. Therefore, the cream-colored dials found on some Rolex Explorer II watches are considered rare and collectible due to their association with this specific paint defect.
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Is the Rolex Explorer II 16550 Cream Dial collectible?
Collectors and enthusiasts often appreciate the uniqueness and rarity of these cream-dialed Rolex Explorer II watches. The paint defect adds a distinct character to the timepiece, making it stand out among other examples. As Rolex addressed the issue in later production, the cream dial variation has become a notable and sought-after feature among collectors.
It is important to conduct thorough research and consult reputable sources or experts when considering the purchase of a specific Rolex Explorer II with a cream-colored dial, as there may be replicas or altered versions in circulation. Authenticity and provenance should be carefully verified to ensure the watch’s value and legitimacy.
The cream dial variant of the Rolex Explorer II ref 16550 has become increasingly desirable among collectors due to its unique combination of features and its distinct appearance. The aging process of the tritium luminescence, the presence of the red GMT hand, the rail dial orientation, and the reliable Calibre 3085 movement all contribute to the appeal and allure of this watch.
As with many sought-after Rolex timepieces, the rarity and scarcity of the cream dial variant have driven up its desirability and value in the market. Collectors and enthusiasts appreciate the distinctive characteristics of this watch, making it a highly coveted addition to any watch collection.
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Features of the Rolex Explorer II 16550 Cream Dial
Rolex Explorer II dials with the said discoloration go by many nicknames. They are most commonly called “Cream Dial Explorers” and sometimes go by Cream Rail Dial, Lemon Cream Dial, or Cream Peach Dial. Whatever the name may be, they share some common features:
Tritium Luminescence
The cream dials on the Rolex Explorer II ref 16550 are known for their distinctive luminescent properties. Tritium, a radioactive material, was used as the luminescent agent in these watches. Over time, tritium tends to age and develop a creamy patina, giving the dial a unique appearance. This aging process adds a vintage charm and character to the watch, making it highly sought after by collectors.
Red GMT Hand
One prominent feature of the Rolex Explorer II ref 16550 is its red GMT hand. The GMT function allows the wearer to track two time zones simultaneously, and the vibrant red hand provides a clear and eye-catching indication of the second time zone. The addition of the red GMT hand enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the watch and distinguishes it from other Rolex models.
“Rail Dial” Orientation
On the Rolex Explorer II ref 16550, the two lines of text are aligned in such a way that the letters line up evenly, creating a balanced and symmetrical appearance. This alignment is achieved by positioning the text directly over the 6 o’clock hour marker, with equal spacing between the words.
The “rail dial” orientation has become a distinguishing characteristic of the Rolex Explorer II ref 16550 and is appreciated by collectors for its meticulous attention to detail and visual appeal. The precision in aligning the text enhances the overall aesthetic harmony of the watch, further contributing to its desirability among enthusiasts.
Calibre 3085 Movement
Powering the Rolex Explorer II ref 16550 is the Calibre 3085, a self-winding mechanical movement developed in-house by Rolex. This movement incorporates several innovative features, including a quickset date function and a 24-hour hand for the GMT function.
Additionally, the GMT hand could be set independently of the regular hour. This iteration meant that the Explorer II could now track the day vs night hours, but also time zones. This opened up desirability beyond spelunkers to other adventurers like travelers and mountaineers. The Calibre 3085 ensures accurate timekeeping and reliability, reflecting Rolex’s commitment to precision.
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Rolex Explorer II 16550 Cream Dial – Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the cream-colored dials found on certain Rolex Explorer II ref 16550 models add a distinctive charm to these timepieces. While initially resulting from a paint defect, these unique variations have captivated collectors due to their rarity and vintage appeal. The tritium aging process, red GMT hand, rail dial orientation, and reliable Calibre 3085 movement further contribute to the allure of the Rolex Explorer II 16550 Cream Dial.
If you’re interested in exploring and acquiring a Rolex Explorer II 16550 Cream Dial, reputable sources like SwissWatchExpo offer a curated selection of authentic timepieces, ensuring both quality and authenticity for discerning collectors and enthusiasts. With their expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, SwissWatchExpo is a trusted destination for acquiring these sought-after timepieces.
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