The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 holds a unique place in horological history. More than just a timekeeping instrument, it’s a legend forged in the crucible of exploration, specifically designed to withstand the rigors of spelunking and other demanding environments. Its robust construction, innovative features, and rich history have cemented its status as a highly sought-after collectible, captivating watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. This in-depth exploration delves into the intricacies of the Rolex 1655, examining its key features, variations, market value, and its enduring legacy.
Rolex Explorer II Ref 1655: A Legacy of Exploration
Unlike its sibling, the Explorer I, which focused on mountaineering, the 1655 was explicitly designed with cave exploration in mind. Its most distinctive feature, the independent 24-hour hand, is crucial for distinguishing between day and night in the light-deprived environments of caves. This allows explorers to track time accurately, even in complete darkness, preventing disorientation and ensuring safe navigation. Powered by the robust 26-jewel Caliber 1575 movement, a workhorse known for its reliability and accuracy, the 1655 was built to endure. The movement, a modified version of the Cal. 1570, boasts a high degree of shock resistance and a substantial power reserve, crucial for extended periods underground.
The watch’s case, typically crafted from stainless steel, is designed for durability. It features a robust construction, resisting impacts and pressure changes encountered during cave exploration. The screw-down crown and caseback ensure water resistance, protecting the movement from moisture and debris. The luminous hour markers and hands, initially using tritium, later replaced with luminous paint, provide excellent legibility in low-light conditions, a critical feature for cave explorers navigating intricate passages. The fixed bezel, typically featuring a matte black finish, complements the overall utilitarian design, adding to its rugged appeal.
Rolex 1655 Dial Variations: A Collector's Delight
One of the factors contributing to the 1655's desirability is the variety of dial variations produced during its production run (approximately 1971-1984). These subtle differences make each watch unique and highly collectible. Collectors meticulously categorize these variations based on several factors:
* Marker Style: The hour markers varied between painted luminous markers and applied luminous markers. The shape and size of these markers can vary slightly, influencing the overall aesthetic. Some examples feature slightly larger markers, or markers with a more pronounced luminous fill.
* Hand Style: Similar to the markers, the hands also underwent subtle changes throughout the production years. The shape and length of the hands can vary, leading to distinct variations within the 1655 lineage.
* Dial Color and Patina: The dial color is typically black, but the aging process, known as patina, significantly affects the appearance. Patina develops over time due to exposure to light and environmental factors, resulting in a unique variation in color and tone, ranging from a deep, rich black to shades of brown or grey. This natural aging process is highly valued by collectors.
* Text and Font: Minute details such as the font style used for the "Rolex," "Oyster Perpetual," "Explorer II," and other text on the dial can differ subtly across different production periods. These seemingly minor differences are significant to discerning collectors.
These dial variations contribute significantly to the price and desirability of individual 1655 watches. Understanding these nuances is crucial for any serious collector seeking a particular variation.
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