{"product_id":"rolex-explorer-ii-16550-black-dial-yellow-patina-1983","title":"Rolex Explorer II 16550 Black Dial Yellow Patina 1983","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSteel Rolex Explorer II ref. 16550 with black dial, cal. 3085, on oyster bracelet, circa 1983 (serial 8.4 million), no box or papers.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRolex Explorer II\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRolex is one of the most recognized watch manufacturers in the world, based in Geneva, Switzerland. The brand has been making watches since the early 1900s and built its reputation on reliable, robust tool watches designed for real-world use. Rolex produces everything in-house, including their movements, cases, and bracelets, which gives them a level of vertical integration that few other brands match. Their watches hold value well on the secondary market, and certain references have become genuinely sought after by collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 16550 is notable among collectors for a few reasons. It came with either a black or cream colored \"rail dial,\" and the cream versions in particular are highly collectible due to their rarity. The reference used a white gold bezel insert with black and red printing, which was different from the aluminum bezels seen on most GMT-Masters of that era. The 40mm steel case and Oyster bracelet kept it in line with the broader Explorer II lineup in terms of sizing and materials. As the founding reference of the Explorer II line, the 16550 holds a specific place in Rolex history and tends to attract collectors who are interested in the early history of the model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Details To Consider\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a Rolex Explorer II reference 16550 in good used condition, dating to 1983 with a serial number in the 8.4 million range. The case presents very well, with thick, sharp lugs that retain their definition nicely. It was recently polished by a Rolex-certified polisher and finished to factory standards, including the correct bevels throughout. All case numbers remain clearly legible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original black dial shows some age-related patina, which is completely normal and expected on a watch of this vintage. The lume plots have developed a warm brownish-yellow tone, and the hands match closely, giving the dial a cohesive, naturally aged appearance. The bezel is in very good condition and holds up well for its age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Oyster bracelet retains all 12 links and wears in great shape, with minimal stretch present. The caliber 3085 movement has been inspected and tested by a certified watchmaker and is keeping accurate time. Overall, this is a solid example of the reference that presents well and wears cleanly on the wrist.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rolex","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56564599652657,"sku":"26-0146","price":8450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/5962\/8593\/files\/image_1_52fcbbc7-01c6-413b-bba4-c4c4eb58b477.jpg?v=1790839625","url":"https:\/\/bogossia.com\/products\/rolex-explorer-ii-16550-black-dial-yellow-patina-1983","provider":"Bogossia","version":"1.0","type":"link"}