Rolex Rail Dial Explorer II Reference 1655 Full Set

Rolex introduced the Explorer II reference 1655 for use by spelunkers (cave diving) and speleologists (cave researchers) where the use of a 24-hour hand is important for the wearer to be able to differentiate between night and day. These watches also have the nickname ‘Freccione’ meaning ‘big arrow’ in Italian and are sometimes falsely called the “Steve McQueen” despite no evidence he ever owned or wore one. A slow seller when initially released, the reference 1655 has gained a cult following due its unusual and distinctive design. The reference 1655 is one of the references I am asked most often to find for collectors.

This example has been polished in the past, but it is attractive. It has the “rail dial” which collectors love and indicates it has more space between the SCOC text. It features a yellow hand. It dates to circa 1977-1978 (5.35 million serial number). The watch is paired on a C&I bracelet dating to 1978. It recently passed a water resistance test of 3 bar.

It comes with box and papers. We do not know the service history, but it is running well.

PRICE: $29,500 (Item SBUXYT2595)