Brand:
Rolex
Model:
Explorer
Year:
1973
Reference:
1655/0
Original Box:
Included
Original Papers:
Included
Service Papers:
Included
Warranty:
12 months
Overall Condition:
Like New
Wear level Case:
Barely visible
Wear level Caseback:
Barely visible
Wear level Dial:
None
Wear level Crystal:
None
Wear level Bezel:
Barely visible
Wear level Bracelet Clasp:
Barely visible
Movement Type:
Automatic
Caliber:
1575
Power Reserve:
48 hours
Case Material:
Steel
Case Diameter:
39 mm
Bezel Material:
Steel
Crystal:
Plexiglass
Dial Color:
Black
Dial Numerals:
Lines
Bracelet Material:
Steel
Bracelet Color:
Steel
Clasp Type:
Fold clasp
Clasp Material:
Steel
Functions:
Date, GMT, Luminous indices, Central seconds, Luminous hands
The Rolex Explorer II ref. 1655/0, nicknamed “Freccione” or “Orange Hand” by collectors, is one of Rolex’s most distinctive vintage sports watches. Based on the dating of the case serial number, this particular example dates to around 1973, placing it among the early years of production for the reference. Its 39 mm stainless-steel Oyster case, fixed 24-hour graduated bezel, matte black dial, acrylic crystal with Cyclops magnifier, and large orange 24-hour hand create an aesthetic that is very different from later generations of the Explorer II. Originally, the 1655 was conceived as an instrument for cave explorers and speleologists, with the 24-hour hand primarily serving to distinguish between day and night in conjunction with the fixed bezel.
Inside is an automatic movement from the Rolex Calibre 1575 family, with 25 jewels, a frequency of 19,800 vibrations per hour, and approximately 48 hours of power reserve. What makes this particular example especially interesting is that, according to the information provided, it was processed through Rolex Certified Pre-Owned in 2026. The watch therefore combines two distinct qualities: the charm of a genuine early-1970s vintage Explorer II and its passage through Rolex’s official CPO program.
Overall, this 1655/0 is a highly collectible Rolex: historically significant, visually unique, and immediately recognizable thanks to its large orange 24-hour hand.