1971 Rolex Explorer 2 'STEVE MCQUEEN', Model 1655 Straight Hand

The Explorer II model, 1655, was introduced in 1971. The movement was either the 1570 or the 1575, and essentially this particular model was a GMT with a fixed stainless steel bezel. It had a distinctive dial with an extra hour hand that was designed specifically for speleologists, or cave explorers, who Rolex claimed, " soon lose all notion of time: morning, afternoon, day, or night." The extra hour hand, or 24 hour, would tell the explorers whether the 4 on the dial was 4:00 a.m. or 4:00 p.m. (16:00 hrs).

This model has also been called the Steve McQueen Rolex. Steve McQueen may have worn a TAG Heuer Monaco wristwatch in the film Le Mans, but in real life he wore a Rolex Explorer II, model 1655. The Explorer II is very popular among collectors today.

This Rolex Explorer 2 'STEVE MCQUEEN', model 1655 is in exceptional condition it is the earlier rarer straight seconds hand type. The case is 40mm Stainless steel with a solid case back which all are in the most fantastic condition, all correctly signed and with hardly any wear!! The bezel is lovely with all markers visible and again in mint condition. The bracelet is the Oyster type and again is in fantastic condition. The dial is original, Black in colour with a racing baton hour and minute markers as well as white luminous hands and the striking orange 24hour hand, all again are just so perfect. The watch runs very well and is a credit to anyone who wears it. The watch has the original receipt stating the payments as well as presentation box and instruction booklet. The watch has been authenticated and as such has substantial provenance. This is without doubt a wonderful opportunity to purchase one of the most desirable watches ever made!!