Rolex Explorer II 1655 'MK I straight hand'

Sold
Sold
  • Free worldwide delivery

All first versions of Rolex toolwatches fetch a high price. Remarkable that this first Explorer 2 is so affordable compared to the first Sub (€150K+), first GMT (€100K+), first Milgauss (€200k+) etc. Is the 1655 a sleeper?

The best Explorer, also known as the Freccione (Italian for 'Orange hand') we have ever offered to the public. This 1655 dates back to 1972 and has the much desired straight hand. The MK I dial has aged beautifully and the tritium is showing strong patina, yet the dial is bright and clear. The case and thick lugs reflect the great condition. The original bracelet from 1972 is still attached to it and from the looks of it, the watch has not been worn often by the previous owner who had it serviced at Rolex.

Introduction

Rolex Explorer IIA new chapter of the storied history of the Rolex Explorer opened with the release of the Explorer II in 1971. Just like its older sibling, the Explorer I, the Explorer II was a sturdy steel toolwatch but bigger and more outspoken. While its smaller brother sat on the wrists of mountaineers, the Explorer II was designed for the men and women that ventured into the deepest caves and across the far poles. As it is difficult to distinguish between day and night in these places, the watch features an extra hour hand and a fixed 24-hour bezel so that you can always read the correct time. But don’t worry, even if you spend most of your time in the inhabited world you won’t be this awesome watch is the perfect wrist companion!REF. 1655The very first Explorer II model was the ref. 1655 released in 1971. An eminently professional timepiece. This early reference was fitted with the calibers 1570 and 1575, the same movements as the GMT-Masters of that era, and featured a funky design; typical for the early 1970s.This reference is best known by its nickname ‘Freccione,’ which means arrow in Italian, after the watch’s characteristic orange arrow-shaped 24-hour hand. Curiously, the 1655 is often associated with the ever so cool Steve McQueen. So much so, that many refer to it as the “the Steve McQueen,” even though not a single picture can be found of him actually wearing the watch!

Specifications

Shipping

Packages are generally dispatched within 2 days after receipt of payment and are shipped within the Netherlands by Registered Mail through the Dutch carrier PostNL and for other countries by Fedex. Consult us if you prefer another method of shipping. For most destinations tracking is available.