Rolex Explorer II “Steve McQueen”

Details

Make: Rolex

Model: Explorer II “Steve McQueen”

Reference: 1655

Year: 1975

Movement: Automatic Rolex Calibre 1575 GMT

Box & Papers: Original Rolex Box, Rolex Service Box, Rolex Service Pouch, Rolex Service Warranty Card and accompanying historical receipts

Case: 39mm Stainless Steel

Dial: Original black “Steve McQueen” dial with iconic orange 24-hour hand

Bracelet / Strap: Rolex Oyster bracelet with period-correct replacement clasp (pictured)

Condition: Excellent Vintage Condition

Serviced: Freshly serviced by Rolex and unworn since service

Warranty: Balance of Rolex 2-Year International Service Warranty and 6 Month Robin Henry Watches Warranty

Price: £15,500

One of Rolex’s Greatest Collector’s Watches

Rolex Explorer II Reference 1655 “Steve McQueen”

The Iconic Legacy

Few vintage Rolex watches have achieved the legendary status of the Explorer II reference 1655.

Introduced in 1971, the 1655 was unlike anything Rolex had produced before. Designed specifically for cave explorers, polar expeditions and those working in environments where distinguishing between day and night could become impossible, it featured a fixed 24-hour bezel and the now-famous oversized orange 24-hour hand.

Although affectionately known throughout the collecting world as the “Steve McQueen”, there is little evidence that McQueen actually owned one. The nickname has endured regardless, becoming part of the watch’s mythology and helping cement the 1655 as one of the most recognisable vintage Rolex references ever produced.

Today, it is regarded as one of the defining collector’s Rolex watches, admired for its distinctive design, relative rarity and historical importance.

Why You’ll Love It

The legendary Rolex Explorer II reference 1655

Desirable 1975 production

Freshly serviced by Rolex and unworn since

Supplied with Rolex Service Warranty Card carrying a two-year international warranty

Original Rolex presentation box, Rolex service box and Rolex service pouch

Accompanied by additional historical receipts from its life

Period-correct Rolex replacement clasp fitted and clearly disclosed

Excellent vintage condition throughout

One of the most collectible vintage Rolex sports watches ever produced

This is exactly the sort of vintage Rolex collectors hope to find.

Mechanically, it has just returned from a full Rolex service and remains unworn since, offering the reassurance of factory-backed mechanical excellence while preserving all the character that makes the 1655 so desirable.

Equally important is the provenance.

Accompanied by its original Rolex box, Rolex service accessories and historical paperwork gathered throughout its life, this is far more than simply a vintage watch. It is a well-documented example that tells its own story, adding another layer of appeal for serious collectors.

The period-correct replacement clasp has been professionally fitted by Rolex and is fully disclosed, ensuring complete transparency while maintaining the correct appearance and functionality expected of this reference.

Iconic Status

A vintage Rolex that defines collecting.

The Explorer II reference 1655 occupies a unique position within Rolex history.

Initially overlooked during its production life, it has become one of the brand’s most celebrated vintage sports watches, admired for its unconventional design and unmistakable orange 24-hour hand. Its purpose-built functionality, distinctive aesthetic and comparatively low production numbers have transformed it into one of the most sought-after references among collectors worldwide.

For many enthusiasts, the 1655 represents everything that makes vintage Rolex so compelling: originality, purpose, history and enduring desirability.

Ready to Make It Yours?

Visit us at our home inside Martin & Martin, 30 High Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey.

This 1975 Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 “Steve McQueen” has recently returned from a full Rolex service and remains unworn since. Supplied with its Rolex Service Warranty Card, original Rolex box, Rolex service box, service pouch and historical paperwork, it represents a superb opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic vintage Rolex references ever produced.

Price: £15,500

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A true vintage Rolex icon, combining exceptional provenance, factory-backed confidence and one of the most celebrated designs in Rolex history.

Visit us in person at our home inside Martin & Martin, 30 High Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey.

Private viewings are also available to book via our website.

Follow us on Instagram @robinhenrywatches for the latest arrivals, or visit www.robinhenrywatches.com to browse and shop online.

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Every watch we sell (excluding those with a manufacturer’s guarantee) includes our own 6-month warranty — your peace of mind, built in. We stand behind the quality of every timepiece.

Payment options: Bank transfer, card, or cash.

Questions? Just email us: [email protected]

Robin Henry Watches Limited

Luxury Pre Owned and Vintage Watches in Guernsey & Jersey since 2001