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Today's watch is a rare vintage Explorer II model.
Rolex Explorer II MK3/MK2 All Tritium
Ref.1655 Serial. 53-series (manufactured around 1977)
Cal.1570 FF580/78360 Clasp Code VB
Accessories: Box (later addition), Warranty (domestic authorized dealer: Sept. 1978 stamp)
In-store price: 6,930,000 JPY (tax included)
The first Explorer II, "Ref.1655," manufactured from around 1971 to 1983.
This model was created for professionals like cave explorers,
featuring a distinctive design that sets it apart from other sports Rolex watches,
with a fixed 24-hour bezel and a large orange 24-hour hand.
The rugged, retro-looking bezel and the unmistakable orange hand that instantly identifies it as a Ref.1655 are simply irresistible!
Even after more than 40 years since production ended, its unique design has not faded,
making it a highly popular model with enduring appeal among vintage Rolex watches!
The individual we are introducing today was manufactured around 1977.
The dial is the "MK3 dial," which is arguably the rarest among Ref.1655 dials.
MK3 dials were produced from approximately 1974 to 1978, but they are an overwhelmingly rare type of dial.
Personally, I love this dial with its unique and charming crown logo and cool serif lettering.
A characteristic of MK3 dials is the center-split text, right?
Pay attention to the chronometer inscription!
If you look closely, the spacing between "SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER" on the top line and "OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED" on the bottom line is aligned vertically.
This is a chronometer inscription unique to dials manufactured by Stern, also seen on Ref.1665 and Ref.16550.
The dial has some very minor stains, but it doesn't detract from its overall aesthetic,
and it remains in generally good condition.
The well-aged luminous indexes are also in excellent condition, with almost no visible loss.
The luminous material is all tritium.
The balance between the hands and the luminous indexes is also well-matched!
The bezel is an age-appropriate MK2 bezel.
The bezel's condition is very important for the watch's overall appearance,
and this particular piece is in superb, crisp condition!
The case and bracelet show overall minor signs of use,
but they are in good condition, maintaining a generally clean appearance!!
As you can see, the middle case is perfectly crisp!
While many examples tend to be rounded,
such sharp-edged lugs are truly appealing!!
The beautiful hairline finish is also excellent!
Such an excellent MK3 example is quite rare to find.
The case sides are also in relatively clean condition!!
The buckle clasp code is "VB".
*There are numbers stamped on the inner plate of the buckle.
The hard bracelet, which matches the era, is also in top condition with almost no stretch!
Accessories include a box (later addition), a domestic warranty (name not erased), a pass case, and a price tag.
An MK3 example with a domestic warranty is definitely rare!!
Finally, a wrist shot!!
The well-proportioned MK3/center-split. It's so appealing! It's so cool!!
The first Explorer II "Ref.1655/MK3 '77" all tritium is an excellent example with superb overall condition!
It is rare to find such a Ref.1655/MK3 dial with its original warranty certificate.
The selling price is also attractively set!!
For customers looking for a rare Ref.1655 model with these conditions,
please consider it.
