Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966

Vintage Watches for Sale

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer Ref. 5500, 1966

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£5,895.00

Traditional Dealer Price

£8,000.00

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An excellent example of the highly collectable Rolex Explorer 5500.

Introducing the Rolex Explorer Reference 5500, a standout piece in the Rolex catalogue that marries uniqueness with a story worth telling. This timepiece shares its 34mm case with the Air-King but flaunts an extra dash of charm - a striking gilt-inscribed dial glowing with tritium luminescent paint. The specimen we have for you is among the finest we've seen, promising not just a remarkable addition to your collection, but a smart investment for the future.

Now, for a little context. The Rolex Explorer was born in 1933 when Rolex began crafting watches for those daring enough to challenge the unknown. These were watches designed to stand up to extreme conditions, featuring a dial that prioritized visibility and lubricants that ensured function between a frosty -20° C and a balmy +40° C.

The 'Explorer' badge was christened in 1953, after the monumental Everest summit. Remember, Sherpa Tenzing Norgay had a Rolex strapped to his wrist when he conquered that peak. Now, how's that for a conversation starter?

As you embark on your own journey of discovery, let's cut to the chase.

This Rolex Explorer Reference 5500? It's not just a watch. It's your future wingman, your timeless sidekick, your ticket to the "wow, nice watch!" club. It's like strapping a piece of history to your wrist that just happens to tell time. It's adventure and elegance all wrapped up in one stylish, vintage package. Plus, you get bragging rights - after all, how many people can say they share a timepiece with the Everest-conquering crowd? So, go on, take the plunge, get the watch, join the Rolex club. The clock's ticking, and this vintage gem isn't going to wear itself!

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Fair Prices

Our prices are upto 30% cheaper (sometimes more!) than traditional dealers.

14 Day Retrns:

Don’t like it? Return it for free!

1 Year Warranty

If something goes wrong, we’ll repair it for free.

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the basics

Brand

Rolex

Model:

Explorer

Reference:

5500

Year:

1966

SKU:

1900

THE CASE

Case Size (excluding crown):

34mm

Case Material:

Stainless Steel

MOVEMENT

Movement Type:

Automatic

Movement Calibre:

1520

CONDITION

Case Condition:

Good

Dial Condition:

Good

Glass Condition:

Recently replaced

Strap Condition:

Excellent

THE STRAP

Material:

Leather

Additional Information

Box & Papers:

Our Own

Brand

Rolex

Model:

Explorer

Reference:

5500

Year:

1966

SKU:

1900

Case Size (excluding crown):

34mm

Case Material:

Stainless Steel

Movement Type:

Automatic

Movement Calibre:

1520

Case Condition:

Good

Dial Condition:

Good

Glass Condition:

Good

Strap Condition:

New

Material:

Leather

Box & Papers:

Our Own

Make this Rolex Explorer yours Today!

Condition Report:

Presented in good vintage condition. The gilt dial id absolutely stunning with only faint marks which can be seen at some angles.

The hands are darker than the dial plots and may have been replaced or re-lumed in the past. The lume is missing from the second hand. If the new owner prefers having the lume on the hands coloured matched to the dial is an easy and relatively inexpensive job.

The case remains in overall good order. There are some light scratches and dings as would be expected for a watch of this age, especially one made for exploring!!

The movement has just received a comprehensive service and is backed by our 1 year warranty. Finally the watch is fitted to a new 3rd party suede strap (others straps available on request).

Shipping:

For orders placed before 2pm orders will be shipped the same day.

Your watch will be carefully packaged and shipped fully insured with leading global courier companies.

Delivery Prices:

Delivery within the UK is Free. Delivery within Europe is £30. Delivery for the Rest of the World is £50.

Returns:

Don't like it or change your mind? Return it for a full refund with our 14 day, no hassle returns on all sales. See the full conditions here.

The Watches

Are all watches authenticated?

All our watches pass through a double authentication process to insure their authenticity. We also provide detailed photos of the watch from all angles to allow you to undertake your own anlysis. Finally as with everything, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to our friendly team

What if something goes wrong with the watch

Whilst all our watches are fully serviced before sale, if something does go wrong, we'll repair it for free as part of our 1 year warranty

Do watches come with original box and papers?

It depends on the individual watch. You can see details under "The Basics" heading on this page. For the majority of vintage watches their original box and papers have been lost to time. Whilst they are nice to have, it’s important to note that “box and papers” DO NOT authenticate a watch despite what many in our trade say. It’s also important to realise alot of sellers (including some of the most well known in the UK) put together full sets of box, papers, hang tags etc by buying blank paperwork and boxes in the secondary market. This is a very regrettable, but unfortunately common occurrence in the trade but something we will never do!

How do I know it will fit?

For metal bracelets we provide the size it will currently fit in the description section of this page. If this measurement is too large or too small we are able to assist in either adding or removing links. We also offer this service, post service on a at-cost basis (i.e. we don't add a margin).

Can you change the strap?

Absolutely! If you don't like the current strap, let us know and we'll change it for free! We maintain a broad selection of styles and can also source straps to your specification free of charge.

Can you source something similar?

Absolutely! If its not quite what you’re looking for just get in touch and we can source one with our Free, No Obligation sourcing service. You can contact us on phone, live chat or simply submit the details of what you’re looking for on our “Find a Watch” page.

Payment

What payment options do you offer?

We accept payment by all leading credit and debit cards, ApplePay as well as bank transfer.

Do you offer financing?

Currently we don't offer financing but it’s something we're exploring.

Shipping & Returns

Can you ship an order to arrive on a certain day?

We can certainly try! We can request with our shipment partners for delivery on a certain day but ultimately the exact delivery date is subject to a number of factors outside our control.

How do I return a watch?

Simply let us know you want to send the watch back within the 14 return period and return it to us via Royal Mail Special Delivery. We’ll process your refund the same day we receive the watch back.

Terms & Conditions

Terms & Conditions

You can find our full terms and conditions here.

5 great reasons to buy from us

Fair Prices

Prices upto 30% cheaper, see how we do it.

Friendly Service

Friendly & never pushy. Phone, Live Chat, Whatsapp.

Authenticity Guaranteed

All watches are guaranteed authentic.

Fully Serviced

All our watches are serviced, not just 'inspected'.

14-Day Returns

Not 100% sure? Don't worry, you have 14 days to return your purchase.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer

Our low prices mean our watches rarely hang around for long! Hit Add to Bag & secure this watch before someone else does! Questions? Reach out to our friendly team who'll be happy to help.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

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What our customers are saying

VERIFIED BUYER

George G.

Rolex Datejust 16013 Bi-Metal, 1987

Time Rediscovered is a pleasure to deal with. An outstanding watch at an even better price! The watch was accurately described. Promptly replied to my messages and offered me a very personal service from start to finish. Many thanks.

5.0

VERIFIED BUYER

Robin K.

Longines 9k Gold, 1952 Vintage Watch

Nick is a legend, delivering absolutely excellent service from start to finish. Buying this vintage Longines from Time Rediscovered was a true pleasure, and I'd recommend anyone looking to buy a vintage watch to have a chat with Nick.

5.0

VERIFIED BUYER

Danny C.

Rolex Precision, 9k Gold

Having recently dealt with with Time Rediscovered, I was most impressed with the way matters were handled. Expert advice, no pressure and no “hard sell” that I have experienced from others. Product beautifully packaged and promptly dispatched. First class service. Well done!

5.0

VERIFIED BUYER

Eden F.

Rolex Oyster Extra Prima, 1928

I purchased a vintage timepiece from Time Rediscovered. The service was excellent- acknowledged my order quickly & kept me informed. I have no reservation about recommending Time Rediscovered.

5.0

VERIFIED BUYER

Matthew J.

Omega Jumbo 2506-10, 1947

Very good experience with Time Rediscovered. Nick answered my questions promptly and swapped a strap for me for no extra charge. The watch is in excellent condition. Very happy to recommend Time Rediscovered.

5.0

VERIFIED BUYER

Vincent L.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air-King

Excellent service from Nick - my preowned watch was very well priced compared to other websites and in better condition that expected, and the communication throughout the process was helpful and responsive. Would use again.

5.0

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