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Rolex Explorer 5500
Rolex Explorer 5500
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Rolex Explorer 5500

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Rolex Explorer 5500

  • This Rolex Explorer Ref. 5500 embodies the spirit of adventure and functional design
  • The stainless steel wristwatch displays the iconic 3/6/9 gilt dial with a triangle at 12 o’clock
  • The Explorer honors the first documented Everest ascent, where Rolex watches were worn
  • Crafted between 1971 and 1972
  • Get complete item description here
$19,200
Item No. 32-1164

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Description
This Rolex Explorer Ref. 5500 embodies the spirit of adventure and functional design. Crafted between 1971 and 1972, this stainless steel wristwatch displays the iconic 3/6/9 gilt dial, marked “Precision.” A triangle at the 12 o’clock position and clean hour markers, all with beautifully patinaed lume, complete the design. Produced for only a brief period, the Ref. 5500 is a rare and highly sought-after variant showcasing the iconic Mercedes hands and a case design inspired. . .
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This Rolex Explorer Ref. 5500 embodies the spirit of adventure and functional design. Crafted between 1971 and 1972, this stainless steel wristwatch displays the iconic 3/6/9 gilt dial, marked “Precision.” A triangle at the 12 o’clock position and clean hour markers, all with beautifully patinaed lume, complete the design. Produced for only a brief period, the Ref. 5500 is a rare and highly sought-after variant showcasing the iconic Mercedes hands and a case design inspired by the classic Rolex Air-King, setting it apart from other Explorer models. Waterproofed by Rolex and powered by the reliable Calibre 1520 automatic movement with 26 jewels, this Explorer is both a styling achievement and a mechanical workhorse. The watch comes complete with its stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and Oysterlock clasp, along with its service card.

Created in the wake of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s legendary 1953 ascent of Mount Everest while wearing Rolex Oyster Perpetuals, the Explorer was born to commemorate human triumph. Derived from the Oyster Perpetual lineage, it is a celebration of precision engineering and purposeful form.

Circa 1971-72

Case: 34mm
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Rolex Explorer 5500
Maker: Rolex
Period: 20th Century
Origin: Switzerland
Type: Wristwatches
Style: Modern
Jewelry Watch Guide
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Rolex: The Evolution of Horological Excellence
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Buy With Confidence

For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.

On Approval

On Approval

Examine select works in person before you commit

125% Guarantee

125% Guarantee

Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years

Trusted Expertise

Trusted Expertise

Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists

Learn More

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Bill Rau Third-Generation Owner

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

Our experienced fine art consultants offer personalized and confidential fine art consultation services to all clients. Whether you are looking to begin collecting art, grow an existing collection, or redefine your collecting strategy, M.S. Rau can support you on this journey.