This one’s for the vintage guys who appreciate imperfections that became icons. Up for grabs is a 1986 Rolex Explorer II ref. 16550 with the increasingly collectible “spider dial”. The black lacquer dial has developed a natural web-like cracking under the surface, a result of Rolex’s short-lived gloss finish technique in the mid-80s. These dials were never supposed to look this way but nature had other plans. Each spider pattern is unique, and this one has fantastic character with great coverage. If you know, you know. The 16550 itself is a transitional legend: it introduced the sapphire crystal and quickset date to the Explorer line, and was only produced for a few short years before being replaced by the 16570. Between the cream dials that turned ivory and the black dials that cracked into spiderwebs, this ref has become a magnet for collectors. Lume no longer glows (as expected for original tritium) except for the seconds hand, which still shows faint activation. Hands and plots are well-matched with consistent aging. Watch runs well and winds smoothly. # Key Details: * **Model**: Explorer II * **Reference**: 16550 * **Year**: 1986 * **Case Size**: 40mm * **Dial**: Black Gloss w/ Spider Web Cracking * **Crystal**: Sapphire * **Movement**: Rolex Caliber 3085 * **Bracelet**: Oyster * **Inclusions**: Watch only + The Watch Connect Warranty (see photos) # More Pictures/Video:  [https://imgur.com/a/xPQ5Ajy](https://imgur.com/a/xPQ5Ajy) # Timestamp: [https://imgur.com/a/QxPe5SR](https://imgur.com/a/QxPe5SR) If you’re interested, shoot me a message. I can provide live video of this piece upon request. # Price: $10k shipped to CONUS # Financing Options: The Watch Connect now has a store charge card! Our bank partner is running a LIMITED TIME PROMOTION of 0% interest for 6 months. You can use this revolving line of credit to shop with us anytime. There is a processing fee of 2.5% added to the total. DM me for the application link. # Shipping: Free U.S. domestic shipping via FedEx Priority Overnight with full insurance to your nearest FedEx location. Signature will be required. \-Michael, The Watch Connect # Connect With Me * Instagram: [officialmichaelmartin](https://www.instagram.com/officialmichaelmartin) * Company Instagram: [thewatchconnect](https://www.instagram.com/thewatchconnect/) * Facebook: [The Watch Connect](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554425171990)