The reference 1655 Explorer 2 is one of the coolest and maybe underrated vintage Rolex sports watches in today’s market. Originally developed for use by cave explorers, the fixed bezel allows the wearer to accurately tell 24-hour time thanks to the large orange 24-hour hand. This is an early watch with the so-called straight seconds hand, without the bubble.

This example has an original Mk1 dial in excellent condition. These watches are known in Italian as ‘Il Freccione’, which means big arrow – referring to the orange 24hr hand. The back of the 24-hour hand has been stabilized.

On this watch the orange had has remained a stunning vibrant colour, which is a great contrast to the rich black dial. The tritium lume on the hour plots and hands has aged nicely to a mellow colour. The case and Mk 2 bezel are in really great condition all round. The folded-link Oyster bracelet reference 7836 is in good condition with a clasp stamped ‘4 71’ and reference 258 endlinks. The watch has been fully checked and regulated by our watchmaker.

This is a cool vintage Rolex and wknow you watch lovers always like it when we find these. Let’s talk!

Specifications:

- Reference 1655 “Straight hand”
- Steel 40mm case
- Serial 341xxxx dating to 1973
- Matte Mk1 dial
- Straight seconds hand
- Mk 2 bezel
- Oyster bracelet reference 7836 and 258 endlinks
- Fully checked by our watchmaker
- One-year mechanical warranty
- Includes a handmade leather watch pouch
- Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping