Hello!
Kaneko from Commit Ginza will introduce you to some attractive watches!
Today we have a rare model of the Vintage Explorer II.
Rolex Explorer II MK3MK2 Albino
Ref.1655 Serial.40 series (manufactured around 1975)
Cal.1570 FF380/7836
Accessories: International service warranty (stamped April 2011)
SOLD OUT!!
The first Explorer II "Ref. 1655" manufactured from 1971 to 1983
The Ref.1655 is an attractive model with a retro bezel and large orange 24-hour hand that exudes a vintage atmosphere!
This is a very popular vintage model and we receive many inquiries about it at our store.
The one we are introducing this time was manufactured around 1975.
The dial is the "MK3 dial," which is arguably the rarest of all Ref. 1655 dials.
The MK3 dial was produced from around 1974 to 1978.
This is a rare dial that is extremely rare.
A distinctive feature of the MK3 dial is the center split notation!!
Pay attention to the chronometer markings!
If you look closely, you will see that the space between the words "SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER" at the top and "OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED" at the bottom is the same on both the top and bottom.
This is the chronometer notation unique to Stern dials, which can also be seen on Ref. 1665 and Ref. 16550.
The dial condition is slightly scratched with a magnifying glass,
Overall, it is in good condition.
The index luminous material is in excellent condition with no missing parts.
The hands have deteriorated slightly over time, but the luminous condition is good!
The bezel is equipped with a period-matching MK2 bezel.
Important point!
The bezel condition is not rounded,
The MK2 bezel is very impressive!
Here's another rare feature!
This particular model is a special one known as an "albino" model, in which the 24-hour hand has faded from orange to lemon yellow over time.
Albino is mostly seen on MK2 dials,
It's also available on the MK1 and MK3 dials.
This 24-hour hand is a rare feature that is surprisingly hard to find even if you look for it.
We took a photo and compared it with our MK2 dial 1655 (right).
The MK2 has an orange 24-hour hand specific to the Ref.1655,
Albinos have a beautifully pale color and give off a unique aura.
The overall condition is age-appropriate with some scratches,
It is in good condition for a model manufactured around 1975!!
Of course it has been polished, but it is a very impressive middle case.
While most of the specimens are rounded,
Lug shapes with sharp edges like this are very appealing!
The sides of the case are not rounded, which is nice!
The bracelet is a consistent 7836/wrap bracelet.
Although winding bracelets tend to become twisted, this particular one is relatively sturdy.
What do you think??
Overall, the parts are well-matched and the face is great, so this is a recommended model!!
Finally, a wrist shot!!
A neat MK3/Albino. It's intriguing.
That's cool!!
The first Explorer II "Ref.1655/Albino"
The rare MK3 dial and the albino/24-hour hand combination are very appealing.
This is a recommended vintage Explorer II in good overall condition!
It is very hard to find a Ref. 1655 with such well-matched parts and rare features!
If you are looking for a rare Ref.1655 model , please consider this one.