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Baron - Mr Red shares his evolving appreciation for the Rolex Explorer II 1655 "straight hand," a watch he initially didn't love but has grown to cherish. His reflection highlights the unique design elements that set this reference apart from other Rolex models, prompting a discussion on its distinct character and why it resonates with collectors over time. This post offers a personal journey of discovery for a vintage Rolex often considered an "un-Rolex Rolex."
The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655, often recognized by its distinctive orange 24-hour hand, was introduced as a tool watch for speleologists and polar explorers. It offered enhanced legibility in low-light conditions and a fixed 24-hour bezel to distinguish between AM and PM in environments where day and night cycles are obscured. This model stands apart from its GMT-Master sibling by focusing on a specific utility rather than multiple time zones, making it a specialized instrument within the Rolex professional line.
This reference features a 39 mm stainless steel case, housing the automatic Caliber 1575 movement. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. A robust acrylic crystal protects the black dial, which is characterized by its luminous hour markers and the prominent orange 24-hour hand. The watch is water-resistant to 100 meters, suitable for its intended robust use.
Collectors value the 1655 for its unique aesthetic and its position as the original Explorer II. Its fixed bezel and distinctive hand set differentiate it from later Explorer II iterations and other Rolex sports models. The reference appeals to those who appreciate purpose-built watches and the early design language of Rolex's professional series, representing a specific chapter in the brand's history.
As per a funny coincidence, I took it off the safe... For a good wrist session. We should more often post pics of this reference! Best, Nicolas
.. has a touch of summer, also for me. Best, hs
... about the Explorer II. Also It happened exactly the same with my relation with this fine watch. I owe the discovery of this reference to our friend Nicolas. It was after reading his passionate post about the Explorer II a few years ago, that I opened my eyes to this model to which I had never paid attention before. As it has been said, this is the "unRolex Rolex" though in the final instance you discover the DNA of the brand. It is now one of my favorite watches, a joy to have on the wrist.
It's funny that I wore mine a few weeks ago and got 2 comments from my wife and a friend about how nice the watch looked on my wrist yet neither of them are watch lovers I agree with Joe that it's a watch that grows on you the more you wear it Regards John
......as to be honest it took about 2 years before i started to grow to love it....many times in fact i looked to sell it....BUT, every time i looked to sell it, my wife would tell me that she didn't care less if i sold ant of the other Rolex, but this Explorer II was the only one she liked. And again and again, she will compliment it when she sees it. Now.....its impossible to sell.
for making me fall in love with the Explorer II!! Y tu extraordinario y apasionado reportaje de hace algunos años! Un abrazo afectuoso mi amigo! Abel.
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