Rolex Explorer II Ref. 1655 in Steel

CIRCA: 1973
REF.: 1655
CASE NUMBER: 3804131
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless steel
CASE DIMENSIONS: 39 mm diameter
DIAL: Black with tritium luminous markers
BRACELET MATERIAL: Rolex stainless steel Oyster, ref. 7836 with 280 end links
BRACELET SIZE: 7-1/4 inches
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time, date, 24-hour indication
CALIBER: 1575

The reference 1655 was engineered to serve a very specific marketÑcave explorers. The functionality of the 24-hour hand should not be confused with that of the GMT, since the bezel does not rotate. The 24-hour hand in this reference 1655 Explorer has a single purposeÑto differentiate day and night in places where the lack of natural light can be confusing. The Explorer was introduced in 1971 and was initially a slow seller, although its 1970s looks eventually garnered a cult following among Rolex collectors.

This watch is often nicknamed the "Steve McQueen," although no proof can be found that the actor ever wore or even owned this model. It is also nicknamed the "Freccione", Italian for large arrow, in reference to the distinctive large orange 24-hour hand. The model screams 1970s and this example is absolutely beautiful with what appears to be an unpolished case and all original dial, hands, and luminous material, which has aged to a nice, creamy-beige color.

Property of a New York Collector