The Art of American Horology & Colle...

New York, Nov 28, 2001

LOT 378

Rolex, Oyster Perpetual Date, "Explorer II", Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified, Ref. 1655. Produced in the late 1970's.Fine, center-seconds, self-winding, water-resistant, stainless steel gentleman's wristwatch with a stainless steel Oyster bracelet.

USD 5,000 - 6,000

Sold: USD 5,980

C. three-body, polished and brushed, screwed-down case back and crown, steel bezel graduated in 24 hours, "Cyclops" crystal. D. black with tritium-coated indexes, aperture for the date. "Skeleton" tritium-coated hands, the orange arrow is to indicate the diurnal and nocturnal hours according to the 24 hours graduated bezel. M. Cal. 1570, rhodium-plated, 26 jewels, straight line lever escapement, monometallic balance adjusted to temperatures and 5 positions, shock-absorber, self-compensating Breget balance-spring.Dial, case and movement signed. Diam. 39 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good
Case: 3-6

Good

Slightly oxidized
Movement: 3

Good
Dial: 3-01

Good

HANDS Original

Notes

Called "The Steve McQueen watch" by collectors, the "Explorer II" dates back to the 1970's. Created for speleologists, the additional orange hand helps the user distinguish the nocturnal from the diurnal hours. This model remained in the Rolex catalogues until 1982. From 1983 to 1988, the reference 16550 was available with a white or black dial.