Why This Watch Matters This Explorer II reference 1655 is from the earlier production period, and is the much-coveted straight-hand version. The Full Story The Explorer II model was first introduced in 1971. While Rolex designs are generally on the conservative side, with this extra large neon-orange 24-hour hand, this could be the most period-specific design the company produced. This new design allowed the wearer to read time and tell whether it was AM or PM using the orange 24-hour hand. Perhaps, for this rather daring design for Rolex, this model was not a particularly popular model. The model went through several subtle design iterations and ceased production around 1985. This watch was once nicknamed “Steve McQueen" by collectors and enthusiasts, though there was no proof that the actor wore the watch; more recently, the moniker “Freccione” ("big arrow" in Italian) has taken over. The Fine Print Maker: RolexModel: Explorer IIReference: 1655Year: Circa 1972Case No: 3250910Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 39mm diameter; 9.5mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Rolex self-winding caliber 1575Bracelet/Strap: Rolex, stainless steel Oyster bracelet, reference 78360, endlinks stamped 580Lug Width: 20mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know The watch is overall in very good condition. The case appears to have been lightly polished in the past, but is still strong in form with some scratches and light wear, and a touch of roundness towards the ends of the tips of the lugs. The beveled edges along the lugs are still visible. The bezel is well preserved with minor scratches and all of the black inlay intact. The dial is beautifully aged with a slight softness on the black matte finish, with the lume in a dark vanilla tone overall. There is some wear to the lume on the minute hand. The bracelet is a later replacement (reference 78360 with 580 end links). The bracelet clasp appears to also be a later replacement stamped 63510H.
