Rolex Explorer II

Description

The 1655 Explorer II needs no introduction, considered by many collectors to be the ultimate Explorer model, and for good reason. This model is the very first Explorer II, it was introduced in 1971 and ran for approximately 15 years. Similar to the Paul Newman and the exotic dials, this watch wasn’t particularly popular at the time, most models were elegant and simple, this was called “cluttered and “illegible” by many collectors and writers alike. The 1655 however, was made for a very specific target market. It was aimed at cave explorers who, when working underground for long periods, in darkness, can lose any sense of time, even if it was day or night? The introduction of the 24hr bezel and large luminous 24 hand combated this very niche issue, plus that more rugged case, made it a perfect wrist companion for any adventure. Strangely this watch carries the nickname “Steve McQueen” because he was wearing the 1655 in various commercial adverts although never personally wore one. He was more often seen wearing a 5512 Submariner. Fast forward 50 years and the model has gone from strength to strength among Rolex collectors and vintage enthusiasts, the 1655 is becoming one of the hardest watches to source due to the aforementioned reasons and because they were owned by people who used them for their actual purpose, finding complete and original examples in great condition is even harder. This pieces dates to 1975 and comes with the mk2 ‘Frog Foot’ coronet dial and mk2 bezel, bang on for this serial. The original 78360/580 oyster bracelet stamped A denoting its manufacture in 76 is one link short buy can easily accommodate a 19cm wrist. The watch has six service inscriptions in the case back, dating from the early 80’s to 2017. Its been a well looked after and cherished watch. The movement is still performing well at 5 seconds per day, 240 amps and a beat error of 0. 7. The seahorse box Explorer booklet and Oyster booklet are also with the watch.