Rolex Explorer II (1655)

Vintage 40mm Rolex Explorer II (1655)

Produced from 1971 to about 1984, the Rolex Explorer II (reference 1655) was considered an upgrade to the Rolex Explorer that shared its name. The Explorer II added a date feature and an additional red/orange hand with an external 24 hours steel bezel, but Rolex may as well have introduced a completely new watch line. While both the Rolex Explorer I and Explorer II share the robust build that allowed people to wear their watch from the office to the mountain top, the Explorer II looked like a tool watch. In place of the 3,6,and 9 numerals on the dial were 24 luminous markers, a bold red (faded to orange) arrowhead and a 24 hour steel bezel. Whereas the Explorer I was for the office worker who went to the mountain on the weekend, the Explorer II was for the person who lived for the mountain and reluctantly returned to the office. It was a bold change that many Rolex fans did not at first accept. However, today, the Explorer II reference 1655 is a celebrated and highly sought after vintage watch because of that rugged tool watch aesthetic, which sets it apart from other Rolex models. It is also powered by the Caliber 1575, which also powered the iconic Rolex GMT Master watch, giving the reference 1655 solid vintage credentials.

As with many vintage Rolex references, the Explorer II carried the same name throughout its production, but several variances in the dials and bezels appeared over the years, which collectors now  distinguish as Mark types. This early Explorer II from about 1973 includes the most sought-after Mark I dial, recognizable by the straight seconds hand. The bezel is the Mark II, and the watch is attached to a correct, period Oyster bracelet. From the clean, dark dial with aged luminous markers to the strong chamfers on the case lugs, this Rolex Explorer II should bring a smile to the faces of both new and old vintage watch collectors.  With a recent service, the watch will offer years more of worry-free wear.