1979 Rolex Explorer II MK 4 Pumpkin Lume (Ref. 1655)
- Worth A Read
- Specifications
- Condition
History and Significance
The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 occupies a unique place in Rolex history. Introduced in the early 1970s, it was designed as a practical instrument for spelunkers, cave explorers, and professionals working in environments where distinguishing day from night was essential. Unlike later Explorer II references, the 1655 relies on its fixed 24-hour bezel and oversized orange GMT hand rather than an independently adjustable hour hand, reinforcing its pure tool-watch intent.
This example dates to 1979 and features the Mark IV dial, identifiable by its specific text layout and tritium characteristics consistent with late-production 1655s. The matte black dial paired with aged tritium plots and the iconic orange hand gives the watch its unmistakable character. Often nicknamed the “Freccione” or “Steve McQueen,” the 1655 was never actually worn by McQueen, but the association stuck and helped cement the model’s cult status.
Unpolished examples with original components are increasingly difficult to find. With its original bracelet dated to 1977 and strong overall integrity, this piece represents the Explorer II in one of its most honest and collectible forms.
Writer’s Thoughts
The 1655 wears with a presence that feels purpose-built rather than flashy. The unpolished case retains its original geometry, and the patina across the dial and hands gives the watch real depth. It is a watch for collectors who value originality and history over perfection, and one that feels equally at home as a daily wearer or as a cornerstone vintage Rolex.
Our Promise
Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. This watch is offered in honest condition.
Brand: Rolex
Model: Explorer II
Reference: ref. 1655
Year: 1979
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Size: 40mm
Bezel: Fixed stainless steel 24-hour bezel
Dial: Black Mark IV dial with tritium luminous markers
Crystal: Acrylic
Movement: Automatic Rolex caliber 1575 GMT
Strap: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Buckle/Clasp: Rolex folding clasp
Contents: Watch only
Case: Unpolished stainless steel case shows surface wear consistent with age and use. The case remains well proportioned with strong lugs and original lines.
Bezel: Fixed steel bezel shows wear with clearly legible engravings.
Crystal: Acrylic crystal shows surface marks consistent with use, with no cracks.
Dial: Mark IV black dial shows even aging with well-balanced tritium patina and intact printing.
Hands: Original hands present with matching tritium and the correct orange 24-hour hand.
Strap: Original Rolex Oyster bracelet dated 1977 shows light stretch consistent with age.
Buckle/Clasp: Rolex clasp shows light handling marks and functions properly.
1979 Rolex Explorer II MK 4 Pumpkin Lume (Ref. 1655)
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All our watches are carefully inspected to insure and guarantee the authenticity.
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- Worth A Read
- Specifications
- Condition
History and Significance
The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 occupies a unique place in Rolex history. Introduced in the early 1970s, it was designed as a practical instrument for spelunkers, cave explorers, and professionals working in environments where distinguishing day from night was essential. Unlike later Explorer II references, the 1655 relies on its fixed 24-hour bezel and oversized orange GMT hand rather than an independently adjustable hour hand, reinforcing its pure tool-watch intent.
This example dates to 1979 and features the Mark IV dial, identifiable by its specific text layout and tritium characteristics consistent with late-production 1655s. The matte black dial paired with aged tritium plots and the iconic orange hand gives the watch its unmistakable character. Often nicknamed the “Freccione” or “Steve McQueen,” the 1655 was never actually worn by McQueen, but the association stuck and helped cement the model’s cult status.
Unpolished examples with original components are increasingly difficult to find. With its original bracelet dated to 1977 and strong overall integrity, this piece represents the Explorer II in one of its most honest and collectible forms.
Writer’s Thoughts
The 1655 wears with a presence that feels purpose-built rather than flashy. The unpolished case retains its original geometry, and the patina across the dial and hands gives the watch real depth. It is a watch for collectors who value originality and history over perfection, and one that feels equally at home as a daily wearer or as a cornerstone vintage Rolex.
Our Promise
Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. This watch is offered in honest condition.
Brand: Rolex
Model: Explorer II
Reference: ref. 1655
Year: 1979
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Size: 40mm
Bezel: Fixed stainless steel 24-hour bezel
Dial: Black Mark IV dial with tritium luminous markers
Crystal: Acrylic
Movement: Automatic Rolex caliber 1575 GMT
Strap: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Buckle/Clasp: Rolex folding clasp
Contents: Watch only
Case: Unpolished stainless steel case shows surface wear consistent with age and use. The case remains well proportioned with strong lugs and original lines.
Bezel: Fixed steel bezel shows wear with clearly legible engravings.
Crystal: Acrylic crystal shows surface marks consistent with use, with no cracks.
Dial: Mark IV black dial shows even aging with well-balanced tritium patina and intact printing.
Hands: Original hands present with matching tritium and the correct orange 24-hour hand.
Strap: Original Rolex Oyster bracelet dated 1977 shows light stretch consistent with age.
Buckle/Clasp: Rolex clasp shows light handling marks and functions properly.