Explorer 2
Sold
“Steve McQueen”
The Rolex Explorer II Ref. 1655, also known as the “Steve McQueen” or “Freccione,” is one of Rolex’s most iconic vintage sports watches. It was developed in 1971 specifically for explorers and adventurers operating in dark environments without natural daylight. The distinctive 24-hour bezel served as a day/night indicator and helped users orient themselves.
The example offered here dates from 1971, has a 2-million serial number, an original Mark I bezel, and a Rolex tritium service dial and hands. The date disc has also been replaced. Although the watch is therefore no longer entirely in its original delivery condition, it offers a very attractive combination of vintage character and an excellent condition of the dial and hands.
The caseback is stamped with “II 71,” which perfectly matches the watch’s date. The case was polished in the past and shows no dents or major blemishes. As a result, the lugs have lost some of their substance, but remain in good condition for a watch from 1971.
The Rolex Oyster bracelet dates from 1993 and was replaced at that time. In spring 2026, the watch was inspected and refurbished by a watchmaker in Munich. A receipt for this work is available. There is also a 2018 purchase receipt from a Dutch vintage watch dealer. Inside, the proven Rolex Calibre 1570 movement is at work.
An honest Explorer II 1655 with an original Mark I bezel, matching case history, and a freshly serviced movement—an exciting blend of vintage character and everyday practicality.
AoT Guarantee Certificate
- all watches personally evaluated
- no retouched images
- guaranteed authentic
- free & insured shipping
- 12-month warranty on functionality
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Specifications
- Serial number
- 2-Mio Series
- Year
- 1971
- Case
- Steel
- Strap
- Oyster bracelet
- Crystal
- Acrylic glass
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Orig. papers
- No / AoT warranty
- Orig. box
- No / AoT box
- Caliber
- 1570, Automatic
- Warranty
- 1 year
- Condition
- Good
Our promise
Every watch offered at “Artisans of Time” has been personally selected, inspected, and subjected to several stages of quality control before becoming available in our shop.
Coming soon
Every watch offered at Artisans of Time has been personally selected, examined, and appraised by Linus. After his assessment, the watch is sent to a certified watchmaking workshop. There, the authenticity of the watch is verified once more. This is followed by a functional check for accuracy and water resistance, as well as general maintenance, during which wear parts such as seals are replaced if necessary.
Do you want to sell your watch?
Some watches stay with you for half a lifetime. That makes it all the more important to know exactly what you have when passing them on. We take the time to evaluate your watch and provide you with a transparent assessment of its condition, originality, and market value—via email, WhatsApp, or in person at our shop.
