Rolex Explorer II 16550 "Warm Patina dial" with super Jubilee, 1987

Dealer description — Bulang & Sons

The original Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II ref. 1655 was introduced in 1971. In hindsight, it’s fair to say the model struggled to gain traction at launch. Rolex positioned the Explorer II as a tool watch specifically designed for spelunking—an activity that, while adventurous, remained niche. The spirit of exploration was certainly present: navigating dark, damp, and potentially dangerous caves. However, despite a broader cultural fascination with adventure during the 1960s and 1970s, caving didn’t capture the public imagination quite like mountaineering or diving. As a result, the Explorer II failed to resonate with a wider audience in its early years. Following reference 1655 came reference 16550—the exact model we have on offer here. Slightly larger by just 1mm, the updated Explorer II introduced a sapphire crystal and the new caliber 3085 movement. But the real game-changer was the independently adjustable local hour hand, allowing wearers to track local time while the 24-hour hand displayed home time. Sound familiar? That slender, elongated 24-hour hand recalls the one seen on the GMT-Master. With this upgrade, the Explorer II was no longer confined to caves—it was ready to travel the world. This reference also introduced a second dial color (white, in addition to the previously exclusive black) and glossy dials with white gold surrounds on the hour markers—on both black dials and early white ones. The specific example we’re offering is a later R-series model featuring black surrounds on the hour plots. These plots have aged to a beautiful warm yellow hue, echoed in the black hands that also carry a golden patina. Both the case and bezel are in fantastic condition. One of the coolest and most surprising features of this watch is its pairing with the so-called “Super Jubilee” bracelet. It gives this sporty tool watch a very “summer and sun” ☀️ aesthetic that we love! While not period-correct (these bracelets were introduced by Rolex around 2005 and are now out of production), the Super Jubilee is prized for its hidden clasp, elegant design, and exceptional comfort. This sets it apart from the standard Jubilee bracelet, which typically features an exposed clasp. The Super Jubilee bracelet on this watch is reference 63600, featuring solid end links and a clasp stamped 7YK. If the buyer prefers a reference 78360 Oyster bracelet—as originally delivered with these watches—we can source and fit one on request. But we must say, we love the look and feel of this combo just as it is! This warm patinated Explorer has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and is ready for new Exploration for the years to come. Tool watch meets summer vibes ☀️—this Explorer II is ready for your wrist. Email us or reach out to secure it today. Specifications Rolex Reference 16550 Explorer II White dial with black surroundings , black hands and warm yellow patina Serial r27xxxx dating to 1987 Rolex “super jubilee “ ref 63600 bracelet with solid end links Fully serviced by our watchmaker