Revolution: The Evolution of the Role...

New York, Apr 17, 2008

LOT 102

?Straight Hand Steve McQueen? Mark I Rolex, "Oyster Perpetual Date, Explorer II, Superlative Chronometer, Officially Certified", Ref. 1655. Made in 1970. Fine, center seconds, self-winding, water-resistant, stainless steel wristwatch with date, special 24-hour bezel, large orange 24-hour hand and a stainless steel folded Rolex Oyster bracelet. Accompanied by a blank warranty, hangtag and booklet and original fitted box.

USD 20,000 - 30,000

EUR 13,000 - 20,000

Sold: USD 33,600

C. Three-body, polished and brushed, graduated 24-hour bezel, screwed-down case back and protected crown, crystal with cyclops lens. D. Black with luminous baton indexes, aperture for the date. Luminous white baton hands, large luminous orange arrow to indicate the diurnal and nocturnal hours on the 24-hour graduated bezel. M. Cal. 1570, rhodium-plated, 26 jewels, straight-line lever escapement, monometallic balance adjusted to 5 positions and temperature, shock absorber, self-compensating Breguet balance spring, Microstella regulating screws, hack mechanism. Dial, case and movement signed. Diam. 39 mm. Thickness 14 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-01

Good

HANDS Original

Notes

IIn 1971, the Rolex Explorer II, Ref. 1655, was introduced. It was fitted with either the 1570 or 1575 movement. One of Rolex's more unusual designs, it testifies to the company's commitment to the sport watch in that it was designed specific professional or recreational use. The Explorer II is an adaptation of the GMT-Master, with a fixed bezel. On the first version there was no luminous circle on the seconds hand and the print on the distinctive bezel was small and printed closer to the dial edge of the bezel.