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Hello!
This is Kaneko from Commit Ginza, here to introduce a recommended timepiece!
Today, I am featuring the second-generation Explorer II with an ivory dial.
Rolex Explorer II Ivory, All Tritium
Ref.16550 Serial 8.5 million (manufactured circa 1984)
Accessories: Watch only
Cal.3085 78360/FF501 Clasp code I8
COMING SOON!!
The second-generation Explorer II was produced from approximately 1984 to 1988.
I would like to introduce the rare "Ref.16550," a model that disappeared from the market after a very short production period!!
It was a historically significant model that underwent a major change from the first-generation "Ref.1655," adopting the design that would eventually lead to the modern Explorer II.
The "Ref.16550" dial was available in black, white, and ivory,
and what I am introducing today is the ivory dial, which is particularly rare among them and boasts immense popularity among vintage Rolex fans.
The unique, cream-toned hue, different from the standard white dial, is truly captivating.
This indescribably soft color provides that wonderful atmosphere exclusive to semi-vintage pieces!
As for the ivory tone, while it is by no means a dark shade, it is not too faint either; it has aged into an exquisite cream color!!
The luminous material on the indices, which has aged to match the dial, also has a great look. The fact that the lume and the dial have aged in the same tone is what makes this ivory dial so cool!!
This dial is known as a "Center Split," referring to the fact that the spacing between the text "SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER" on the upper line and "OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED" on the lower line is vertically aligned.
While this dial configuration also exists for black dials, the combination of an ivory dial with a center split is highly sought after and quite rare.
The dial condition has some minor scratches that can only be seen when closely inspected with a loupe, but overall it is in beautiful condition.
The luminous material is all-tritium. The condition of the luminous hands is excellent!! The color perfectly matches the luminous material on the indices!
There was a period when the "16550/Ivory" appeared more frequently on the market, but before we knew it, those numbers have dwindled considerably.
Especially for pieces that have developed a nice ivory tone and are in good overall condition, I get the impression that they are seen much less frequently than before!!
The market price, which had been stable, feels like it is gradually trending upward.
While there are scuffs and small scratches consistent with use, the case and bracelet are in solid, good condition.
Look at the condition of the middle case!! It has not been over-polished and presents a very impressive appearance!
The edge lines of the bezel and lugs are sharp! The hairline finishing is also beautiful.
The buckle clasp code is "I8".
The period-correct bracelet is in good condition with only slight stretching.
Accessories include the Explorer booklet and the Oyster booklet.
Wrist shot!!
This is a wonderful piece with an appealing ivory dial that matches perfectly with the aged luminous indices!
Rare Explorer II "Ref.16550/Ivory/All Tritium/1984"
A notable semi-vintage model with an appealing ivory dial and center split text!!
The dial, which has aged to a lovely cream color, has a great atmosphere, and the overall condition is excellent!!
As they are becoming harder to find on the market recently, I highly recommend that anyone interested takes this opportunity to secure this piece!!
For customers looking for a "Ref.16550/Ivory" with a beautiful look, please consider this watch.
