Rolex

1977 Rolex Explorer II (Ref. 1655) Mk. IV

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The Rolex Explorer II Ref. 1655  was introduced in 1971 The Explorer II was outfitted with an orange GMT hand to be used as a day/night indicator for professionals that didn’t see daylight for extended periods of time. Think cave explorers and climbers who were in environments that stay dark for long periods of time. The Explorer Ref. 1655 has a fixed stainless steel bezel that possesses engraved 24-hour indications to support the GMT function of the orange 24-hour hand. The early Ref. 1655 Explorer II's contained a  Rolex Automatic Cal. 1570 movement then later the Cal. 1575 movement also found in the early Rolex GMT-Master reference.

Sometimes the Rolex Explorer II Ref. 1655 is referred to as the Steve McQueen Explorer. But the truth is that this a total myth as Steve never wore one and or owned one. Steve personally owned a Rolex 5512 which he wore on his right wrist as well as a Heuer Monaco but never did he wear the Explorer ref 1655.

This specific 1977 Explorer II Ref. 1655 is a truly stunning example. The dial is flawless and the condition of the watch as a whole is remarkable. This is a standout watch as the exotic dial and bright orange 24-hour GMT hand are sure to make a refined yet stylish look while on the wrist.

Stock # RLXEXP2771655-2
Brand Rolex
Style Explorer II
Model 1655
Serial 53XXXXX
Size Men's
Material SS
Dial Matte Black "Mk IV"
Millimeters 40mm
Bracelet NATO

 

CASE & BRACELET

The excellent case has been previously lightly polished but retains full and even lugs that show very little wear. The original 24hr stainless steel bezel remains in excellent condition, without enamel loss within the bezels numerals. The watch will come supplied on a NATO strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The original Mk. IV matte black dial is in superb condition. The tritium lume plots remain bright and have achieved a subtle ivory coloration, under U.V. light inspection the lume shows no degradation. The original hands are in excellent condition and the lume matches the dial perfectly, under U.V. light inspection the lume in the sweep-seconds hand shows some very light cracking, the hour, minute and orange 24hr hand remain fully intact.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch was recently serviced and is running at COSC spec. The watch comes with a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.