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Rolex · Explorer II

Explorer II

Ref. 1655 — “Freccione

discontinuedFirst Explorer IIDocumentedLast reviewed Not yet reviewed

Reference photography not yet on file

The original Explorer II: fixed 24-hour bezel and a non-independent orange 24h 'Freccione' arrow hand (cal. 1575). Nicknamed 'Freccione' (Italian: big arrow); often mislabeled the 'Steve McQueen', a popular misnomer — McQueen actually wore a Submariner (ref 5512), not the Explorer II. Black dial only — there is no white 'Polar' 1655.

At a glance

Brand
Rolex
Collection
Explorer II
Reference
1655
Production
1971–1985
Caliber
1575
Case diameter
40mm
Case material
Stainless steel

Related references

Reference family timeline

Every generation in this lineage in production order. Spans are as documented; an open end means the reference is current or its end year is not established.

  1. 1655Freccione

    Explorer II · 1575

    1971–1985This reference
  2. 16550

    Explorer II · 3085

    1985–1989Transitional
  3. 16570

    Explorer II · 3185 / 3186

    1989–2011
  4. 216570

    Explorer II · 3187

    2011–2021
  5. 226570

    Explorer II · 3285

    2021