The original Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II, a watch born in 1971, holds a unique place in horological history. While not an immediate commercial triumph, its legacy today is one of enduring appeal and burgeoning collector interest. Fifty years after its debut, it’s fair to say the Explorer II’s initial reception was lukewarm, a fact that adds to its intriguing narrative. Its intended purpose, primarily as a tool watch for spelunkers and explorers navigating challenging environments, initially failed to resonate with a broader audience. This article will delve into the fascinating history of the original Explorer II, exploring its specifications, models, value, and its journey from relative obscurity to coveted collector's item.
Rolex Explorer II Release Date:
The official release date of the original Rolex Explorer II is 1971. This marked a significant departure from the existing Explorer line, introducing a crucial feature: the independently adjustable 24-hour hand. This hand, often referred to as the GMT hand, was designed to differentiate between day and night in low-light conditions, a critical feature for cave exploration where natural light is absent. This innovation, however, was not immediately embraced by the public. The watch, with its relatively large size (for the time) and its unconventional 24-hour hand, was considered by many to be too bulky and specialized for everyday wear.
Rolex Explorer II Models:
The early Explorer II models, primarily referencing the reference 1655, are now highly sought after by collectors. The 1655 is characterized by its distinctive features:
* The Orange Hand: The most recognizable feature of the 1655 is its bright orange 24-hour hand, a stark contrast to the black dial. This vibrant color provided high visibility in challenging conditions, and today, it's a hallmark of the model's unique aesthetic.
* Dial Variations: While primarily known for its black dial, subtle variations exist among the 1655 models, impacting their collectibility and value. These variations include differences in the font style, lume plots, and the presence or absence of specific text markings.
* Case Material: Early Explorer II models were crafted from stainless steel, contributing to their robustness and durability, essential qualities for a tool watch designed for extreme conditions.
* Movement: The 1655 housed the calibre 1570, a robust and reliable automatic movement known for its accuracy and dependability. This movement, a workhorse of its time, ensured that the watch remained a reliable timekeeping instrument even under duress.
Later models, such as the reference 16550 (introduced in 1985), saw slight modifications, including an updated movement and minor aesthetic tweaks. However, the 1655 remains the most iconic and desirable of the original Explorer II models.
Rolex Explorer II Specifications:
The original Rolex Explorer II (reference 1655) boasts impressive specifications:
* Case Diameter: Approximately 39mm, larger than many contemporary sports watches of its era.
* Case Material: Stainless steel
* Movement: Calibre 1570, automatic, self-winding
* Water Resistance: Water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet).
* Crystal: Acrylic crystal, known for its scratch resistance and vintage charm.
current url：https://xrnpwu.k748s.com/all/rolex-explorer-2-original-15483