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ROLEX VINTAGE EXPLORER II “Freccione” Ref. 1655 – 1972 | Early Production | Excellent Condition

The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 is among the most charismatic and distinctive tool watches ever produced by Rolex. Introduced in 1971 and designed for professional cave explorers and adventurers operating in environments without natural light, the model has since become one of the most collectible vintage Rolex sports watches. Early examples from the first years of production are particularly coveted, representing the purest expression of the Explorer II concept.

Offered here is a very early 1972 Explorer II Ref. 1655, preserved in excellent vintage condition and retaining the key elements that collectors seek in an original example.

The original tritium dial has aged beautifully over time, developing an attractive and even patina that perfectly complements the character of the watch. The original tritium hands, including the signature large orange 24-hour “Freccione” hand, remain present and correct, contributing to the authenticity and visual appeal of this early Explorer II.

The watch also retains its original fixed 24-hour stainless steel bezel, an essential feature of the reference and an element that is often replaced during service. The strong stainless steel case shows excellent proportions and remains highly attractive, preserving the purposeful tool-watch aesthetic that defines the reference.

Completing the watch is a period-correct Rolex folded-link Oyster bracelet, consistent with early 1970s production and highly desirable among collectors for its vintage character and lightweight comfort.

When Rolex introduced the Explorer II in 1971, the watch was conceived as a specialized instrument for spelunkers and polar explorers—professionals who might spend extended periods without exposure to natural daylight. To address this challenge, Rolex equipped the model with a fixed 24-hour engraved bezel and a dedicated 24-hour hand, enabling the wearer to clearly distinguish between day and night.

The first-generation Explorer II, reference 1655, quickly became recognizable for its unconventional design. The oversized orange 24-hour hand—later nicknamed the “Freccione” by Italian collectors—was created for maximum legibility, while the dial layout prioritized clarity above all else.

Despite its technical innovation, the 1655 remained a relatively niche model during its production run from 1971 to 1985. Only later did collectors begin to appreciate its bold aesthetic and historical importance within Rolex’s professional tool-watch lineup. Today, the reference is regarded as one of the most iconic vintage Rolex sports watches, admired for its distinctive design and authentic tool-watch heritage.

Early Explorer II examples from the first years of production have become increasingly difficult to source in honest, well-preserved condition. With its original dial, hands, bezel, and period-correct bracelet & the original box, this 1972 Ref. 1655 offers the kind of authenticity and presence that serious vintage Rolex collectors value.

A compelling and highly wearable example of one of Rolex’s most distinctive professional references—a true classic of vintage tool-watch design.

Comes with a one year warranty through our watch lab.

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