Doubt about Explore 16570 "Chicchi di mais"

[DaMan1990]

Good morning, I'm in search of a "Chicchi di mais" Dial Explorer 2 16570.
To be sure, should I consider serial numbers up to S? So up to '94-'95?
I notice that many have hands that don't match the indices. But some do.
Are there specific serial numbers that have matching hands? Or is it random?

Thanks in advance to all

[0nly5iv3Digits]

Hands very often patina differently than indices and are therefore not a reliable indicator of originality.

[Dan S]

Since the appeal (and value) is entirely in the color of the lume, I don't think I would buy an example with mismatched dial and hands.

[77T]

If I recall correctly, there were different makers that Rolex contracted for dials and hands back then. So I don't think serial numbers alone can be your guide.

I agree with Dan that you will need to weigh the color match over and beyond the serial number.


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[TimeLord2]

This is my dad's 16570 from 1991. I do not know what the serial number is. He recently had it serviced with Philip Ridley and that was the first and only time… after 30 years! Hands and dial original to the watch. None of it glows anymore. As Dan said, much nicer if the hands match the dial but that's life.

[DaMan1990]

thanks to all

[TuRo]

The early dials from 89-92 go the darkest.

Its a hangover from the 16550 dial manufacturer and the faults/blemishes/patina - delete as per how you feel.

1989 most likely the darkest, hands rarely same shade though.

Some sellers are very optimistic in pricing see below.

I only value a dark hr marker Polar 89-92 at about £1000 more than later ones - this guy thinks it £5-6k though....but, who knows going fwd!

I remember when yellowing 16550's were only £500 more than a full white 16550 (NOW 3 OR 4 TIMES MORE) - in the mid 90's - £2000 v £1500 !!!

https://www.chrono24.co.uk/rolex/rol...d_yqhztD&pos=2

[DaMan1990]

Do you think chicchi di mais is the last 5digit serial, with a real collecting interest left (“low cost”)?

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by DaMan1990

Do you think chicchi di mais is the last 5digit serial, with a real collecting interest left (“low cost”)?

What do you mean by "last?" Zenith Daytona's are (and will continue to be) collectible, and I personally expect that various tritium/lug-hole 5-digit models will become more collectible as time passes.

[studioal]

You should send a message to Scott at Fog City vintage, he's kind of the guy to talk to about these variants.

[TuRo]

Yes agree with Dan, c 1999 is the key imho.

All 16600,16710,14060,14270,16610 etc in tritium with lug holes and sleekest bracelet style will be super sought after in 20 years I feel, just like Pam 1, 2, 4, 36, 9 etc Panerais T Dials.

We are just at the start of that reckoning, like we were with the last of the Mohican 5513, 16660, 16750 matte dials in 1997/8 when everyone cottoned on to their future collectability/value....