The Rolex Explorer II, specifically the reference 1655, holds a unique place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. Its rugged design, robust functionality, and intriguing history have cemented its status as a highly sought-after collectible. Within the 1655 lineage lies a particularly captivating variant: the "Freccione" MK2, characterized by subtle yet significant dial variations. This article delves into the intricacies of the Rolex 1655 Explorer II "Freccione" MK2, exploring its dial variations, market value, sizing, and its connection to iconic figures like Steve McQueen. While the provided product description mentions a modern Rolex Explorer II (16570), this article focuses specifically on the vintage 1655, clarifying the distinction.
Understanding the Rolex 1655 Explorer II "Freccione" MK2
The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 was produced from 1971 to 1984. During its production run, subtle changes were made to the dial, leading to various iterations and sub-variations. The "Freccione" (Italian for "arrow"), a nickname given to certain 1655 dials, refers to the distinctive shape of the minute hand. This hand, unlike the straight minute hand found on some other 1655s, features a slightly curved, arrow-shaped tip. The MK2 designation typically signifies a specific stage in the evolution of the "Freccione" dial, often characterized by particular details in the font style, printing, and lume application. Pinpointing the exact characteristics that define a "Freccione" MK2 requires careful examination by experienced collectors and experts. These subtle nuances impact the watch's value significantly.
Rolex 1655 Dial Variations: A Complex Tapestry
The complexity of Rolex 1655 dial variations is a subject of considerable debate amongst collectors. Small differences in font style, lume plots, the placement and printing of text (e.g., "ROLEX," "OYSTER PERPETUAL," "EXPLORER II," "SWISS MADE," and the date window), and the shape and color of the hands all contribute to the multitude of dial variations. These variations are often categorized based on the year of production, though pinpointing the exact year of a specific dial based solely on visual characteristics can be challenging.
Some key dial characteristics that contribute to the classification of a 1655 "Freccione" MK2 might include:
* Minute Hand: The distinctive "Freccione" (arrow-shaped) minute hand is a primary identifier.
* Hour Markers: The shape, size, and lume application of the hour markers vary across different dial iterations.
* Font Style: The font used for the text on the dial subtly changed over time, contributing to the identification of different dial variations.
* Lume: The type and color of the lume (luminescent material) applied to the hands and markers have evolved throughout the production run. Tritium lume was used in the early models, often exhibiting a creamy or aged appearance.
* Date Window: The shape and size of the date window, as well as the cyclops (magnifying lens) over the date, can also vary subtly.
* "Swiss Made" Text: The font and placement of the "Swiss Made" text provide further clues for dating and classification.
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