Rolex
Rolex Explorer II — Ref. 1655
Rolex Explorer II — Ref. 1655
Complete Guide & Authentication Service
The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655, produced from the early 1970s to the mid-1980s, is nicknamed the “Steve McQueen” or “Freccione” thanks to its bold orange 24-hour hand. With its fixed 24h bezel, 39 mm Oyster case and matte black dials, it is one of the most distinctive vintage Rolex sports models. Below you’ll find a detailed guide with authentication checklist, serial ranges, dial/hand variants and common red flags — plus an easy way to order your preliminary certificate with QR verification.
24h
Delivery
€39
Starting Price
QR
Verification
Independent
Service
Model Overview
Why the Explorer II 1655 Matters
Launched in 1971, the 1655 was designed for cave explorers needing a fixed 24h indication. Its 39 mm steel Oyster case, bold fixed bezel and distinctive orange GMT hand make it unique in the Rolex sports line. Unlike later Explorer II references, the hand was not independently adjustable. Authentication requires checking dial print style, hand color, bezel engraving, caseback stamps, and bracelet codes.
39 mm
Steel Oyster case with fixed 24-hour bezel; plexiglass crystal.
Cal. 1575 GMT
Automatic, date, 24h hand geared; hacking seconds after ~1972.
“Freccione”
The oversized orange GMT hand defines the 1655 and drives collectability.
Simple Process
Authenticate Your 1655 in 3 Steps
We combine AI flagging with expert review to deliver a fast, reliable preliminary certificate for collectors and traders.
1. Upload
Send photos of dial, bezel, lugs/serial, caseback, movement and bracelet.
2. Review
We verify dial font (MK I–V), orange hand originality, bezel engraving depth, and bracelet codes.
3. Certificate
Receive a PDF with ID + QR that buyers can check instantly online.
Deep Dive
Authentication Checklist — Explorer II 1655
Use this checklist before buying or preparing a listing. Coherency is key.
Case & Bezel
- 39 mm steel Oyster case; thick chamfers should remain.
- Fixed 24h bezel, engraved numerals; MK differences matter.
- Inner caseback: “1655” and service codes; outer: plain.
- Check corrosion or re-engraved serials between lugs.
Movement
- Cal. 1575 GMT; hacking seconds after ~1972.
- Bridges, regulator and rotor must align to era.
- Service swaps with non-GMT 1575 are a risk.
Dial & Hands
- Matte black dials; MK I–V variants with font & spacing differences.
- Tritium “SWISS – T < 25” signature correct for the era.
- Orange GMT hand should age to pumpkin hue; fakes often neon.
- Mercedes hands lume tone must match dial plots.
Bracelet & Clasp
- Oyster bracelets: 7836 folded links → 78360 solid.
- End links (280/580) depending on era.
- Clasp codes date the bracelet; mismatches common red flag.
Pro Tip: the orange hand is often replaced. We document originality, hue and wear pattern in your certificate.
Dating the Watch
Indicative Serial Windows (’70s–’80s)
Serials overlap — always confirm with dial generation, bezel and clasp codes.
| Serial Range | Approx. Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2.8M – 3.9M | 1971–1973 | Early dials, bright orange hand |
| 4.0M – 5.5M |