Rolex Explorer II 1655 MK1 Ultra Full Set

sought-after MK1 version - full set - attractive patina

Rolex Explorer II 1655 MK1 Ultra Full Set - iconic wristwatch from 1973
iconic wristwatch from 1973
original papers, sold in the Netherlands Antilles
olive green patina in hour markers and hands
straight seconds hand
perfect steel bezel
Oyster case in great condition
screw-down case back
automatic caliber 1570
reference 1655 and date stamp II/72 (second quarter 1972) inside the case back
Oyster bracelet
3/72 inside the clasp
reference 1655 between the lugs
original accessories from the year of sale
super nice on the wrist

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Description
Back then a survival tool for adventure explorers and today a timeless and coveted watch icon: The Rolex Explorer! Here you see an early MK1 version of the reference 1655 coming with its ultra full set.

In 1971, the Explorer II reference 1655 was presented as "The Tool Watch" for expedition explorers and scientists. The unmistakable hallmarks of this watch include the orange 24-hour hand and the fixed (non-rotating) 24-hour bezel. These two components are acting as a 24-hours display or day/night display, which is especially useful for researchers who spent long periods in places with a lack of natural light. The nickname "orange hand" or "freccione" (Italian for pointer) is due to the orange color of the 24-hour hand.

This example dates from 1973 and is the rare MK1 version with a 3.2 million serial number. The distinctive feature of this version is the "simple" second hand. In subsequent versions, this hand had the lollipop shape.

The original full set makes this watch an outstanding collector's item. The punched chronometer certificate shows that the watch was sold in the Netherlands Antilles. Other accessories include the Rolex booklets, green leather card holder, hangtag, warranty translation, presentation box and outer carton.

Another special thing are the absolutely evenly aged hour markers and hands. The tritium lume shows an olive green patina creating a wonderful vintage look of the watch.

Condition report
Dial: excellent condition with original authentic patina in the tritium lume, signed with "T SWISS T".

Case: stainless steel case in TOP condition with slight signs of wear.

Bezel: excellently preserved stainless steel bezel with even hours.

Movement: automatic Rolex caliber 1570 operates perfectly.

Bracelet: Oyster stainless steel bracelet, slight signs of wear, folding clasp stamped 3/72.

Summing-Up
Of all versions of the Rolex Explorer 1655, the MK1 is the rarest one. The spectacular condition and full accessories of this example make it almost irretrievable.

Serial number: 3219xxx (1973)

Int.Exe.: 1402120
Features

Manufacturer: Rolex

Model: Explorer II

Reference: 1655

Functions: date - COSC certified chronometer - 24 hours display, day and night display - hour and minute - screwed-on caseback

Material: Stainless steel

Dial: black

Watch glass: acrylic crystal

Delivery Contents: Papers - chronometer certificate - Box - booklet / leaflet - accessories - warranty certificate - Certified Chronometer Hang Tag - Hang Tag - leather warranty holder / card holder - outer box

Bracelet: stainless steel

Type of clasp: deployant buckle

Diameter: 40mm

Caliber name: Rolex 1570

Movement type: automatic

Year of Manufacture: 1973

Overall condition: 9 - has rarely been worn - top condition

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