YouTube
Instagram
Facebook
TikTok
Hello!
Today, we have a rare model of the vintage Explorer II.
Rolex Explorer II MK3/MK2 All-Tritium
Ref.1655 Serial: 5.3 million range (manufactured around 1977)
Cal.1570 FF580/78360 Clasp code: VB
Accessories: Box (later issue), Warranty (domestic authorized dealer: stamped September 1978)
SOLD OUT!!
The first-generation Explorer II "Ref.1655" was manufactured from approximately 1971 to 1983.
Created for professionals such as cave explorers,
it features a unique design that stands out from other sports Rolex models,
equipped with a fixed 24-hour bezel and a large orange 24-hour hand.
The rugged, retro-styled bezel paired with
the iconic orange hand that makes the Ref.1655 instantly recognizable is simply irresistible!!
Even more than 40 years after production ended, its unique design has not faded,
making it a highly popular model with a dedicated following among vintage Rolex watches!!
The piece we are introducing today was manufactured around 1977.
It features the "MK3 dial," which is arguably the rarest among all Ref.1655 dials.
The MK3 dial was produced approximately from 1974 to 1978,
and it is an extremely rare type with very few examples currently in circulation.
Personally, I love this dial for its unique, charming crown logo and the cool serif lettering.
The hallmark of the MK3 dial is, of course, the center-split text!!
Take a close look at the chronometer certification!
You will notice that the spacing between the upper line "SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER" and
the lower line "OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED" is vertically aligned.
This is a specific chronometer marking found on Stern-manufactured dials, also seen on the Ref.1665 and Ref.16550.
There are some very minor stains on the dial, but they do not detract from its character at all,
and the watch remains in beautiful condition overall.
The indices have aged beautifully,
and the luminous material is in excellent condition with almost no signs of loss.
The luminous material is all-tritium.
The balance between the hands and the indices is perfectly consistent!
The bezel is an age-appropriate MK2 bezel.
Since the bezel is a key part that defines the watch's appearance,
its condition is a very important point, and this piece is crisp and in wonderful condition!
While the case and bracelet show minor signs of use overall,
the watch remains in great condition and is very well-preserved!!
As you can see, the middle case is sharp and well-defined!
In a market where many examples have become rounded over time,
this lug shape with clearly defined edges is truly attractive!!
The beautiful hairline finish is also a great feature!
It is quite rare to encounter such a high-quality MK3 specimen.
The sides of the case are also in relatively clean condition!!
The buckle clasp code is "VB"
※There is a numerical engraving on the inside plate of the buckle.
The age-appropriate Oyster bracelet is also in top condition with almost no noticeable slack!
Accessories include the box (later issue), domestic authorized warranty (no name erasure), card case, and price tag.
It is definitely rare for an MK3 specimen to come with its original domestic warranty!!
Finally, a wrist shot!!
The well-proportioned MK3/center-split design.
It’s captivating. It looks so cool!!
The first-generation Explorer II "Ref.1655/MK3, 1977," all-tritium model.
This is a highly recommended, high-quality specimen in fantastic total condition!
An Ref.1655/MK3 dial with this kind of original warranty is truly rare.
We have set the price at a very attractive level, too!!
If you are a collector looking for a rare Ref.1655 model that meets all the criteria,
please consider this one carefully.
