Considering all first references of Rolex' tool watches are fetching astronomical prices, being a part of the brands history, it is quite remarkable that the reference 1655 - Rolex' first Explorer II - is so affordable. Perhaps we're dealing with a sleeper?

The Rolex Explorer II was made to address one very specific problem. As you may have noticed it features an extra orange colored 24-hour hand, which is referred to as the 'Freccione' or 'Big Arrow'. Next to that it also has an engraved 24-hour scaled bezel, in this case an Mk2 bezel, that is often paired and periodically correct with the Mk1 dials, which we can also find here. And because of this bezel; the lucky explorer can prevent losing all notion of time by being able to distinguish night from day during his or hers explorations to the far North where the sun might not pop up for months on end.

Considering this example has very light creamy coloured lume plots, matching perfectly with the hands, we can imagine this piece has been taken care of by an appreciative collector that has probably not taken it on any explorations. Another cool fact is the 'straight hand' which, as it speaks for itself, is the second hand not having a round lume plot, a collectible aspect only seen on early 1655's. The orange "Freccione" adopted a very light subtle and appealing orange colour over time.

The 39mm Oyster case that houses the automatic caliber 1570 is, just like all other parts of this watch, in a wonderful condition and sits on a time period correct riveted USA Oyster bracelet. Impeccable piece looking for the next explorer to take her on her next voyage.