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Rolex Explorer II

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II was introduced in 1971. Featuring a fourth hand to measure 24 hours, the Explorer II was a utility watch designed for use in environments without any natural daylight. This bright orange 24-hour hand, which became red in 1974, made the Explorer II the watch of choice for polar explorers, speleologists, and anyone else working in extreme conditions.

The 1655 Steve McQueen

One of the most coveted versions is the 1655, nicknamed the Steve McQueen by Rolex enthusiasts. Unlike the ‘Paul Newman Daytona’ which was the model worn by the eponymous film star, the 1655 was never worn by Steve McQueen. (McQueen’s everyday watch was a 5512 Explorer.) However, Rolex used his image in the marketing for the 1655 and the nickname stuck. The model was discontinued in 1985.

If you want an Explorer II, or you have one to sell, contact Wanted Watches today.

Explorer II model numbers

Model ref: 1655 with the orange hand (Steve McQueen), 16550 (cream), 16570 (White / Black Dial), 216570 (white / black, orange hand).

Case: 40mm Lugs: 20mm

New explorer case: 42mm

Wanted Watches, Auchtermuchty, Fife. 

Wanted Watches is an independent watch trader and is not sponsored by, associated with, or in any way linked to Rolex SA or Rolex UK. Wanted Watches only sources pre-owned watches and if any warranty is offered, it is provided by Wanted Watches. The brand name and associated model names for Rolex are the trademarks of their owners.

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