Rolex Explorer II Orange Hand Freccione 'Mark V', 1655

We are proud to present the iconic Rolex Explorer II Orange Hand Freccione 'MK5 Dial' vintage watch for sale in mint condition, fully checked and authenticated in our accredited workshop. 

Following on from the success of the Explorer, in 1971 Rolex decided to add another feature to their sports watch; this time in the shape of a 24-hour indicator hand. They also increased the case size to 39mm and fitted the watch with a fixed 24 hour bezel for spelunkers (cave explorers) to indicate whether it was AM or PM. The earliest of these models were fitted with 24-hour hands in bright orange; however some variations were fitted with a red hand. It is very important to note that due to the age of the 1655 many of these hands have aged and faded, meaning some fitted with orange hands are now very light orange or in some cases white in almost there entirety, with some red hands now fading to orange. Another defining characteristic is of this hand is its enlarged arrow tip, which has caused this model to be affectionately regarded to as a 'Freccione' Explorer II as this loosely translates to 'arrow / big arrow' in Italian. To many collectors however this model is rather famously known as the 'Steve McQueen' due to many rumours that he wore one, even though there is no documented pictures of on on his wrist.

This version of the iconic Explorer, reference 1655 was produced between 1971 - 1984 and comes set in a 39mm stainless steel Oyster case with fixed 24-hour bezel, identifiable as the MKIV variation. This original matte black MKV dial features thinner text and painted tritium lume as denoted by the 'T Swiss < 25 T' text written at 6 o'clock. The lume on this dial and handset has aged very evenly and have turned a wonderful creamy colour, with the same said for the 24-hour hand which is now a very light orange. The dial is finished off a white minute track and classic date feature at 3 o’clock. The watch is fitted with an acrylic plexi-glass, as well as a screwdown crown which allows for a water resistance of 10atm (100m/330ft). This Explorer II is powered by the automatic calibre 1575 chronometer movement, and comes fitted on a stainless steel '78360' Oyster link bracelet with '580' end links and a folding clasp. Please note that additionally this watch comes with its original '78360' clasp and bracelet. 

This particular Explorer II was originally bought in August 1982 by a Sergeant in the British Army and was purchased from the original owner. Presented in mint condition for its age and supplied with its original inner and outer boxes, Oyster booklet, Explorer booklet, translation booklet, calendar card, service docs (December 1984 / October 2001), original purchase invoice and punched international warranty certificate. This Explorer II is sold with a 12-month warranty from the date of sale.

A near immaculate example with excellent provenance bought from the original owner, perfect for an avid Rolex collector or enthusiast.