The Rolex Explorer II was first introduced in 1971 by the way of the ref. 1655. Providing a completely refreshed appeal with the absence of the traditional 3-6-9 dial configuration and furthermore featuring a 39mm diameter Oyster case, it also is equipped with a 24-hour bezel. Designed for expeditioners and professional alike, one of the most notable traits of the ref. 1655 is its large orange luminous 24-hour hand, which allowed the wearer to differentiate night and day under any conditions earning its nickname the “Freccione” or “Big Arrow”.

With its production spanning to the mid-1980s, the ref. 1655 was released with a total of 5 different marks as well as two service dials (one with tritium and one with luminova). The earliest examples of the reference known as the Mark I featured a distinctive straight center seconds hand. The present example from circa 1972 with a 3 million serial is arguably one of the most attractive examples to have appeared at auction in recent times. Boasting a crisp case with thick and defined lugs, the dial is simply a stunning specimen with luminous materials that has aged harmoniously to a warm buttery hue. This is an unmissable opportunity for collectors and vintage enthusiasts to acquire one of the finest.