Important Watches

View full screen - View 1 of Lot 2331. Explorer II, Reference 16550 | A stainless steel wristwatch with 24 hour indication, date, cream dial and bracelet, Circa 1984.

Rolex

Explorer II, Reference 16550 | A stainless steel wristwatch with 24 hour indication, date, cream dial and bracelet, Circa 1984

Session begins in

September 18, 07:00 AM GMT

Estimate

120,000 - 200,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Rolex

Explorer II, Reference 16550

A stainless steel wristwatch with 24 hour indication, date, cream dial and bracelet, Circa 1984

Dial: cream

Calibre: cal. 3085 automatic, 27 jewels

Case: stainless steel, screw down case back

Case number: 8'453'088

Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp

Size: 40 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 190 mm

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Rolex Garantie, product literature and presentation box

Produced for only a brief period between 1985 and 1989, the Rolex Explorer II reference 16550 is widely regarded as one of the most desirable transitional references in the model's history. Owing to its short production run, the reference occupies a unique position among collectors. Particularly coveted are examples fitted with the original white dial, many of which have naturally aged to a rich cream tone due to an instability in the dial lacquer used by Rolex during the period. Known among enthusiasts as the “Cream Dial” or “Panna Dial” (the Italian word for cream), these attractively patinated dials have become one of the defining characteristics of the reference and are highly prized for their individuality and rarity.

勞力士 Explorer II 型號16550

精鋼鏈帶腕錶，備24小時顯示、日期及奶白色錶盤，約1984年製

附帶證書、腕錶文獻及盒子

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."