Rolex Explorer II 16570: Unearthing Rare Rail Dials

amanico · 2020-06-25T15:41:23Z

Explore the rare Rolex Explorer II 16570 'rail dials' and 'cream dials' with collector amanico. Uncover transitional details and expert insights into these sought-after vintage references.

amanico

WPS member · Rolex forum

25 replies5430 views2 photos

Nicolas (amanico) brings to light a fascinating detail concerning the early Rolex Explorer II reference 16570: the rare occurrence of 'rail dials' typically associated with its predecessor, the 16550. His post highlights two examples, one cream and one black, prompting a deeper dive into the nuances of these transitional references and the specific dial variations that make them highly sought after by collectors. This exploration underscores the importance of meticulous detail in vintage Rolex collecting.

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Indeed, both are rail dial, the cream and the black. While both dials should go in a 16550.

But for a short, very short time, and at the beginning of the 16570 life, those dials can be found.

Here they are:

Cream ( credit Tempus Orologi )

Black ( credit Lunar Oyster )

Very interesting!

Best,

Nicolas

About the Rolex Explorer Ref. 16550

The Rolex Explorer reference 16550 is a specific iteration within the Explorer line. This reference is noted for its dial variation, which in some examples, such as the one described, presents as a cream rail dial.

The case and movement details for this reference are not provided in the input.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in specific dial variations within the Explorer model range, particularly those seeking the cream rail dial.

Specifications

Caliber: 3085

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 40mm

Dial: Black, White ('Panna')

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The 'rail dial' and 'cream dial' phenomena are primarily linked to early Rolex Explorer II 16550 models, produced from 1984 to 1987, which featured white gold index surrounds. These dials developed a cream patina due to a defect in the white coating.
Around 1987 (R serials), Rolex made two significant changes to the Explorer II: blackening the index surrounds and hands for improved legibility, and correcting the dial coating to prevent both the cream discoloration and the 'spider' crazing seen on some black dials.
Collecting vintage Rolex, especially references with unusual dial combinations, can be a 'minefield' due to the prevalence of non-original or incorrectly paired components. It is safer to stick to widely accepted and documented variations.
The 'panna dial' (cream dial) is a highly desired vintage Rolex variation among collectors, often sought after for specific production years.

The Discussion

kkochheiser

Jun 25, 2020

The cream dial, especially is amazing! [nt]

amanico

Jun 25, 2020

Yes, really. I had one like this but in a 16550...

Mikesr

Jun 25, 2020

✅✅

The black face, looks like a submariner

amanico

Jun 25, 2020

Every black dialed Rolex looks like a Sub. ;) [nt]

Boris

Jun 25, 2020

I have always wondered about those

The Explorer II is easily my favorite Sports reference from Rolex, and the one I have researched the most extensively. The accepted knowledge is that the defect in the white coating making the dials turn cream was to be found in the early 16550's, from 1984 till 1987 (first with rail dial, then non rail versions), which had white gold indices surrounds. From 1987 (R serial), two things are supposed to have happened: - blackening of the indices surround and hands, to increase contrast and legibil

amanico

Jun 25, 2020

What I did, indeed.

Here is my beloved 16550. Very interesting retrospective on these dials, mon ami. I always feel more comfortable with sure combinations of dials / references. Exotisme in vintage Rolex is a very dangerous game. Best, Nicolas