Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Hong Kong, Apr 25, 2021

LOT 242

ROLEX REF. 1655,
EXPLORER II, “STRAIGHT HAND” STEEL

HKD 260,000 - 400,000

USD 33,500 - 51,600 / CHF 31,200 - 48,000

Sold: HKD 337,500

Fine and very rare stainless steel self-winding wristwatch with screwed- down case back, Mark 1 black dial with date, large orange arrow 24 hour hand and special 24-hour bezel.


Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent

Case: 3-8

Good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 3-8-01

Good

Slightly scratched

HANDS Original

Brand Rolex

Model Explorer II

Reference 1655

Year Circa 1971

Movement No. D983235

Case No. 2916358

Bracelet Rolex stainless steel bracelet78360, 580 endlinks , approx. total length 190mm

Caliber 1570

Dimensions Ø 38mm

Signature Case, Dial and Movement

Accessories Original fitted box, guarantees, COSC certificate, instruction booklet, sales invoice dated 1973, hang tag

Notes

Rolex Ref. 1655 Explorer II, the Orange Hand, was firstly introduced in 1971. It is the first Rolex with a 24-hour indication that allows accurate time reading even in extreme environments like mountain caves, which is of significant use for real explorers. This reference features an iconic dial design with the eye-catching 24-hour hand in bright orange, which is a much loved model to every Rolex collectors.

The Ref. 1655 MK 1, just like the current example, was put into production for one year (1971) only, and therefore very limited numbers are available in the market. This example is in excellent original condition, coming in matching MK1 dial, bezel and case, and is accompanied by original box and guarantee, COSC guarantee, booklets, sales invoice, and service records. It is no doubt a rare opportunity to own a completed version of this reference.