Rolex. A stainless steel automatic calendar bracelet watch with dual time zone from the family of the original owner
Model: Explorer II
Reference: 1655
Date: Circa 1979
Movement: 26-jewel Cal.1570 automatic, adjusted to 5 positions & temperature
Dial: Black, luminous baton hour markers, white minute divisions, magnified date aperture at 3, white pointed baton hands with luminous inserts, centre seconds, further orange arrow tipped dual time hand
Case: Brushed and polished tonneau form, screw down back and crown, 24 hour indication to bezel, No.6251429
Strap/Bracelet: Brushed Oyster 78360 link
Buckle/Clasp: Signed folding clasp
Signed: Case, dial & movement
Size: 37mm
Accompaniments: Rolex service pouch, spare link
Footnotes:
The Rolex Explorer II 1655 first appeared on the market in 1971 and continued the tradition of the earlier Explorer models which were first introduced in 1953. The watch was originally developed to accompany speleologists on their cave exploration expeditions and as such was designed with extreme durability in mind. Due to its limited commercial success and short production period, the reference 1655 is today one of the more sought after Vintage Rolex models.

The model features a fixed bezel with 24 hour display and a special 24 hour hand that can be set to distinguish day from night hours. It is known as the 'Freccione', Italian for 'big arrow', amongst collectors.

The current lot is offered direct from the family of the original owner.

Movement: Runs when powered
Dial: Good
Hands: Good
Glass: Light scratches throughout
Case: Light surface scratches and minor nicks throughout, likely repolished at some stage
Strap/Bracelet: Surface scratches throughout, repolished at some stage, measures approximately 165mm
Buckle/Clasp: Light scratches

We do not test any watches for their accuracy and as such timekeeping cannot be guaranteed.

We advise that if you are bidding on a watch, that you or your agents are completely satisfied with the condition of the lot. We recommend that all watches are serviced and polished after the sale as they are handled throughout the viewing period. Please note that although Bonhams endeavour to include reference to any replacement parts within our Condition Reports we cannot confirm that each individual element of the watch is original or that, if replaced, the replacement has been made using original manufacturer's parts.

Please note that due to the UK leaving the European Union there will be further import charges applicable if you are based in the EU. Please do familiarise yourself with local duties.