Vintage Rolex Explorer II 1655 MK1 Ultra Full Set for sale

Description ▲

Once a vital tool for adventure explorers, today a timeless and highly coveted watch icon: the Rolex Explorer. Here we present an early MK1 version of Reference 1655 – in an Ultra Full Set. Among all variations of this reference, the MK1 is the rarest, and combined with its spectacular condition and complete accessories, this example is virtually irreplaceable.

In 1971, Rolex introduced the Explorer II Reference 1655 as a "tool watch" for expedition explorers and scientists. Its distinctive features include the striking orange 24-hour hand and the fixed, non-rotating 24-hour bezel. Together, these components allow for clear distinction between day and night – a crucial advantage for researchers spending extended periods in locations without daylight. Due to its prominent hand, the watch is also known by the nicknames "Orange Hand" or "Freccione" (Italian for "Large Hand").

The example shown here dates from 1973 and is the rare MK1 variant with a serial number in the 3.2 million range. Characteristic for this early execution is the straight seconds hand, whereas later models were fitted with the lollipop-style hand.

Its original full set makes this Explorer a true collector’s highlight. The punched chronometer certificate reveals that the watch was originally sold in the Netherlands Antilles. Additional accessories include Rolex booklets, the green leather card holder, hang tag, guarantee translation, presentation box, and outer carton.

Another particularly appealing feature is the even aging of the hour markers and hands. The original tritium luminous material has developed a warm olive-green patina, giving the watch an unmistakable vintage charm.

Condition Report
Dial: excellent condition with original, authentic patina in the tritium luminous material, signed "Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Explorer II Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified T SWISS T".

Case: stainless steel case in excellent condition with light wear.

Movement: automatic Rolex Caliber 1570 - values on the timegrapher: rate: -15s/day, amplitude: 265, beat error: 1.3.

Bracelet: original Oyster stainless steel bracelet - light signs of use - reference 7836 - end links 380 - folding clasp stamped 3/72.

Serial number: 3219xxx (1973)

Int.Exe.: 1402120

Features ▲

Manufacturer: Rolex

Model: Explorer II

Reference: 1655

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

Material: Stainless steel

Dial: black

Watch glass: acrylic crystal

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

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

Why shop with WatchPool? ▲

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See the watch in person ▲

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