Rare Rolex Explorer made for cave exploration to go to auction
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A rare Rolex Explorer II, reference 1655, will go under the hammer on Thursday, 29th August 2024 in Fellows’ August Watches auction.
The first Rolex Explorer II, introduced in 1971 with reference 1655, was specifically designed for cave explorers who operated in environments of total darkness for extended periods. Its most distinctive feature was the large orange 24 hour hand, intended to help wearers differentiate between day and night when no natural light was available.
As a brand, Rolex is famed for its tool watches. However, a tool watch intended for cave explorers is somewhat unusual. The Rolex Explorer II, reference 1655, is exactly that. Produced between 1971 and 1985, it includes features tailored specifically for cave exploration. Given the presence of water in many caves, a 100-meter depth rating proved useful. Additionally, the iconic large, bright orange 24-hour hand was essential in helping wearers distinguish between day and night—a crucial feature for those who might be underground for extended periods. This unique design set it apart from other Rolex tool watches at the time.
Despite these practical innovations, the watch initially struggled to find a broad audience, leading to its discontinuation after only six years. Due to the scarcity of this reference, it has since become highly desirable among collectors.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Explorer II has a stainless-steel case with a calibrated bezel and a case width of 39mm. It is fitted with a signed automatic calibre 1520 movement, a black dial with luminous baton hour markers, and comes on a signed stainless steel Oyster bracelet with an Oyster clasp. Lot 157 is estimated to fetch between £8,500 and £9,500.
Steven Yambo, Watch Specialist at Fellows, states:
“There is only a handful of these Rolex watches around in the secondary market. They are hugely valuable and sought-after watches, perfect for any collector. The story of the design captures the imagination, as well as it being eye-catching. I’m sure it will prove to be a popular lot in the Watches auction.”
