The Rolex Explorer II reference 16550 holds a unique place in the brand's history, not just for its rugged design and iconic GMT functionality, but also for the enigmatic nature of its movement. While Rolex has never officially stated the reasons behind specific design choices within its calibers, the 16550's movement, a variant of the celebrated Caliber 3085, presents an intriguing puzzle for collectors and enthusiasts. This article will delve into the specifics of the 16550's caliber, comparing it to its successor, exploring its market value, and examining the allure of specific variations, like the coveted cream dial.
Rolex Explorer II 16550 Specs: A Robust and Reliable Heart
The Rolex Explorer II 16550, produced from 1985 to 1989, housed a modified version of the Caliber 3085. This automatic movement, beating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), offered a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Unlike its predecessor, the reference 1655, which featured a fixed bezel, the 16550 incorporated a rotating 24-hour bezel, crucial for distinguishing day from night in low-light conditions – a feature particularly useful for explorers and cave divers.
The movement itself is a marvel of horological engineering, characteristic of Rolex's commitment to precision and reliability. It's a robust workhorse, designed to withstand the rigors of extreme environments. Key features include:
* Automatic winding: The self-winding mechanism, powered by the rotor's movement, eliminates the need for manual winding.
* Shock resistance: The movement incorporates shock absorbers to protect the delicate internal components from impacts.
* Date function: A date window at 3 o'clock provides a practical calendar function.
* 24-hour hand: The defining feature of the Explorer II, the independent 24-hour hand, allows for tracking a second time zone or monitoring elapsed time in a 24-hour cycle.
While the exact specifications of the modified Caliber 3085 within the 16550 remain undisclosed by Rolex, its performance aligns closely with the known characteristics of the Caliber 3085 used in other Rolex models of the time. This consistency is a testament to Rolex's dedication to maintaining high standards across its product line. The longevity and reliability of these movements are legendary, with many examples still functioning flawlessly decades after their production.
Rolex 16550 vs 16570: A Tale of Two Explorers
The 16550's successor, the reference 16570, marked a significant shift in the Explorer II's design and movement. The 16570, produced from 1989 to 2011, utilized the Caliber 3185, a more advanced movement featuring improvements in efficiency and robustness. The key differences between the 16550 and 16570 extend beyond the movement:
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