Rolex Explorer II 1655 Mk1 dial "Straight Hand" Box and Paper Set
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The Inside Story
A bold sport
The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655, a favourite among collectors and enthusiasts, was introduced in 1971 and produced in several subtle variations over the years. These nuanced differences—particularly in the dial and bezel graphics—have contributed significantly to its desirability, making every iteration a sought-after piece in the vintage Rolex world.
Unlike many of Rolex’s sports models, the Explorer II was originally conceived as a true tool watch, designed specifically for cave explorers—or "spelunkers." At the time of its release, it was far from a status symbol—quite the opposite of how it's perceived today.
Offered here is an exceptional example and the earliest execution, the Mark 1. This piece still features the rare straight seconds hand—used before Rolex introduced the luminous “lollipop” tip in later versions—as well as a thick-font steel bezel that gives the watch a bold, unmistakable look. Both the case and bezel are in excellent, well-preserved condition, with sharp and fat lugs. The dial is truly standout, showcasing beautifully aged pumpkin patina, which is a incredible match with the iconic orange hand. This iconic orange 24-hour hand, slightly faded with time, is the first detail to draw your eye.
The watch is fitted with a folded-link Oyster bracelet, reference 7836, complete with end links stamped 385 and a clasp marked 2/72. Adding to its rarity and appeal, this Explorer comes with its original inner and outer boxes, punched guarantee papers dated to a 1978 sale, a Rolex service card from 2015, and two booklets. Fully checked by our watchmaker, this vintage Explorer II is ready for whatever lies ahead.
The reference 1655 remains one of the coolest—and arguably most underrated—matte-dial vintage Rolex sport watches out there. And this configuration, with its outstanding patina, straight white seconds hand, and perfectly faded orange 24-hour hand, hits all the right notes. It's one of the nicest we have had in many years and ticks all the boxes. We absolutely love it!
Specifications :
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Rolex Reference 1655 Explorer II
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Steel 40mm case , 24 hours bezel
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Serial 305xxxx dating to 1972
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Matte Mk 1 dial and “straight second hand “
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Pumpkin patina on lume and slight faded orange hand
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Oyster bracelet( folded type ) reference 7836 and end links 385
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Rare original Rolex inner “coffin “style inner and card board outer boxes
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Rolex 2015 service card and original punched guarantee paper stating a sale in 1978 & two booklets
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Fully checked by our watchmaker
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1 year mechanical warranty
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Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping
Service & Warranty
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Service & Warranty
Our Service
Each vintage timepiece is individually selected and carefully inspected by our team of experts. After we buy a watch it is mechanically inspected and fully checked by our watchmaker. If necessary, the movement will be fully serviced and tested to ensure it is running to our exacting standards.
We will always describe the watch as fully as we can in our sales texts. Our zoomable images are of the highest possible quality and form an important part of each watch’s description. We will never hide or cover up any element of any watch we sell.
Key to our unparalleled service is Fedex Priority shipping, fully insured. Once you have received your watch, we encourage you to inspect it thoroughly. If you are not 100% satisfied, please let us know. We offer a 14 days return policy. Simply return the watch to get a full refund of the original purchase price.
Our Warranty
We offer a one-year warranty on the mechanical function of the watch, starting from the day of purchase. We do not guarantee the waterproof nature of any (vintage) watch, unless expressly made in writing. Therefore, our warranty will not cover any damage done to the case and/or movement by water or moisture entering the watch. Our warranty does not apply to accidental damage or mishandling of your watch and does not extend to the bracelet, case parts (including pushers, winding stem, crown and bezel), watch glass, dial and hands.
Why Buy From us?
We Love Watches
We are passionate about vintage watches and we love talking about them! That is why we don't sell our watches with a simple "Add to cart" button, but instead try to emulate a truly boutique experience online. Helping you find your perfect vintage watch is our Watch Department’s raison d’etre. Whatever you would like to ask, please do. Building our community of watch lovers is central to our mission at Bulang and Sons.
We Know Watches
At Bulang and Sons we have sold thousands of watches over the years. We are a small team of experienced collectors and connoisseurs who are all part of an extensive global network of buyers and sellers. We have a great reputation for offering only the highest quality watches. We have one simply rule: we only buy and sell watches we want to own ourselves. And yes, we are still collectors too.
We Guarantee Watches
As collectors, we know how intense the search for a specific vintage watch can be. Once you find it at Bulang and Sons, we want to make things easy, safe and fast for you. Therefore, we offer the most comprehensive return policy and warranty; you will not find a safer place on the internet to buy a vintage watch. You can relax and enjoy your deal with Bulang and Sons.