Rolex · Explorer II
Explorer II
Ref. 16550
discontinuedSapphire transitionDocumentedLast reviewed Not yet reviewed
Authentication Notes
Crystal
Medium
Sapphire, not acrylic
The 16550 introduced the sapphire crystal; an acrylic crystal indicates a 1655 (or a wrong service part).
Dial
HighProbable
Rail / cream Polar dials
Early white dials show a distinctive text spacing ('rail dial') and frequently aged to cream; both traits are heavily faked. Verify against known-correct 1985–1989 examples.
Movement
HighHigh confidence
Caliber 3085 only
The 16550 uses the 3085 exclusively (first independent 24h hand). A 3185/3186 belongs to the later 16570.
Inspection points
No inspection checklist has been published for this reference.