ROLEX, EXPLORER II 'CREAM', REF. 16550Important information about this lot
Price Realised USD 23,750
Estimate
USD 15,000 - USD 25,000
Estimates do not reflect the final hammer price and do not include buyer's premium, any applicable taxes or artist's resale right. Please see the Conditions of Sale for full details.
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
Lot Essay
The present Explorer II from the very first series of reference 16550 that replaced the reference 1655 in the mid-1980s. This watch features the highly sought after cream dial with the "rail" configuration. The name is derived from the very inviting cream color of the dial in conjunction with the symmetric division of the two lines below the center: "Superlative" and "Officially" to the left, clearly separated by a vertical space, or "rail", and "Chronometer" and "Certified" to the right. These watches were born with white dials and some of them have turned to this cream color, like the present example. These “Cream” dial Explorer II’s are highly sought after by collectors today. This watch is offered in exceptional condition with its original box and papers.
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You have agreed to be bound by the Conditions of Sale and if your bid is successful, you are legally obliged to pay for the lot you have won. The purchase price for a successful bid will be the sum of your final bid plus a buyer’s premium, any applicable taxes and any artist resale royalty, exclusive of shipping-related expenses.
Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
The case is in very good condition and has only been lightly polished. The lug at 5 o'clock has a very small nick to it. The numbers are crisp between the lugs. The back of the lugs show light evidence of the bracelet and have light scratches from the spring bars. The case back is in very good condition. The inside case back is stamped '16550.' The bezel is in excellent condition and the crown is correct. The dial and hands are in excellent condition and appear to be original. The dial has aged from a white color to a very attractive cream color. The end links are stamped '501' and the bracelet '78360.' The bracelet is correct, in good condition, and with light signs of wear. The quick-set hour is working at the time of cataloguing. The movement is in working order at the time of cataloging, consistent with the age of the watch. The movement has not been tested for accuracy. A service is recommended given the age of the watch.
Cost calculator
Lot 183Sale 17562
ROLEX, EXPLORER II 'CREAM', REF. 16550Estimate: USD 15,000 - 25,000
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