The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655, affectionately known as the "Freccione" (Italian for "arrow"), holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. Its distinctive arrow-shaped hour hand, coupled with its robust build and rich history, solidifies its status as a highly sought-after collector's item. This article delves deep into the "Freccione" story, exploring its design variations, its place within the broader Explorer saga, and the factors that contribute to its rarity and desirability.
Guida Completa Al Rolex Freccione 1655: Unpacking the Details
The Rolex Explorer II ref. 1655, launched in 1971, marked a significant evolution in the Explorer line. Unlike its predecessors, the 1655 introduced a crucial feature: a 24-hour hand. This addition was specifically designed for spelunking and cave exploration, allowing wearers to easily distinguish between day and night in low-light conditions. This functionality, combined with its highly legible dial and robust construction, made the 1655 a practical and dependable tool watch for professionals venturing into challenging environments.
The "Freccione" nickname stems from the unique arrow-shaped hour hand, a departure from the baton-style hands found on earlier Explorer models. This hand, along with the distinctive orange 24-hour hand, is instantly recognizable and contributes significantly to the watch's iconic aesthetic. The dial itself often featured luminous markers, ensuring optimal readability even in complete darkness. These markers, along with the hands, underwent several variations throughout the 1655's production run, leading to a fascinating array of collectible sub-variants.
Bezel Variations: A Collector's Conundrum
One of the key areas of variation within the Rolex Explorer II ref. 1655 lies in its bezel. Images from reputable sources like amsterdamvintagewatches.com showcase the diverse range of bezels found on this model. Early examples often featured a matte black bezel with painted markings, while later iterations saw the introduction of a more polished, glossy black bezel. The differences in the material and finish of these bezels, coupled with the potential for wear and fading over time, contribute to the complexity and allure of collecting the 1655. The subtle variations in the font and style of the numbers on the bezel also add another layer to the identification and appreciation of specific examples. Detailed photographic documentation, like that provided by amsterdamvintagewatches.com, is invaluable in discerning these nuances.
The Explorer Saga: A Legacy of Exploration
The Rolex Explorer II ref. 1655 doesn't exist in a vacuum; it's an integral part of the broader Explorer lineage. The Explorer line itself has a rich history, deeply intertwined with the spirit of exploration and adventure. The original Explorer, introduced in the 1950s, was designed to accompany Sir Edmund Hillary and his team on their successful ascent of Mount Everest. This watch, with its clean, functional design, established a legacy of robustness and reliability that continues to this day. The 1655, with its addition of the 24-hour hand, represents a natural evolution, adapting the Explorer design to the specific needs of a new generation of explorers pushing the boundaries of human endurance. Understanding the 1655's place within this lineage is crucial to appreciating its significance. It's not simply a watch; it's a testament to Rolex's commitment to innovation and its enduring relationship with the world of exploration.
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