Antiquorum Auctioneers since 1974

Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Monaco, Jun 28, 2026

LOT 177

ROLEX, SWITZERLAND, REF. 1655, EXPLORER II STAINLESS STEEL “FRECCIONE”

EUR 20,000 - 40,000

CHF 18,500 - 36,900 / HKD 182,000 - 362,000 / USD 23,100 - 46,200 / JPY 3,700,000 - 7,400,000

A highly attractive and exceptionally well-preserved stainless steel explorer ii wristwatch with desirable mk ii black dial, orange 24-hour hand, original punched guarantee, self winding


Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent

Case: 2-8

Very good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 2*

Very good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 2-10-01

Very good

Patinated

HANDS Original

Brand Rolex, Switzerland

Model EXPLORER II STAINLESS STEEL “FRECCIONE”

Reference 1655

Movement No. D723684

Case No. 5513969

Bracelet Rolex Oyster bracelet ref. 78360 with 580 end-links

Caliber 1570

Diameter 39 mm

Signature Dial, case and movement

Accessories Original punched guarantee dated 1980, chronometer certificate and Rolex wallet

Notes

Among the most distinctive and charismatic Rolex sports watches ever produced, the Explorer II reference 1655 was conceived for explorers operating beyond the reach of natural daylight. Its legendary orange 24-hour hand, earning the nickname “Freccione” among collectors, has become one of the defining signatures of vintage Rolex tool watches.

The present example bears a serial number in the 5.1 million range, fully consistent with production during the late 1970s and the highly desirable Mk II dial configuration found on period examples. The beautifully preserved black dial displays crisp printing, attractive tritium lume and outstanding visual balance, contrasted by the vivid orange 24-hour hand and engraved steel bezel.

Provenance

Property of a French collector