Description
This is an uncommon Canadian-version Rolex Explorer Precision dating to 1961. These Rolex watches are commonly referred to as the ‘Dress Explorers’ as they have a 14k solid-gold bezel and winding crown. The correct ref. 5501 stainless steel Rolex Oyster case dates the watch to 1961. The steel Rolex Oyster vintage bracelet is from the 1960s as well and dates to 1969. As many know, the ref. 5500 (steel) and 5501 (two-tone) also appear in the Rolex Air-King line of watches from the same era. The Explorer versions are (of course) much less common of the two types. There are fewer of these watches than the Explorer 1016! The sparkling steel case on this Explorer measures 34mm and houses a recently cleaned and overhauled (reliable) caliber 1530 rotor automatic winding movement, which is keeping accurate time. The original silver dial on this Explorer has taken on a very attractive patina. The original raised-gold markers and original Dauphine hands complete the look. These watches are currently undervalued in my opinion.
