Skip to main content

Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen 1655
Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen 1655

Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen 1655

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

An Explorer II Steve McQueen vintage wristwatch. Featuring a matte black dial with a date aperture, an orange GMT hand and a fixed stainless steel 24 hour bezel. Equipped with a stai...

Category

20th Century Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Vintage Explorer II Steve McQueen Albino Mark II Dial 1655
Rolex Vintage Explorer II Steve McQueen Albino Mark II Dial 1655

Rolex Vintage Explorer II Steve McQueen Albino Mark II Dial 1655

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A rare Steve Mcqueen Rolex Explorer II labelled the albino. Hard to come by, the orange 24-hour hand the Explorer is iconically known for has faded over the years to white, ultimatel...

Category

20th Century Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Steve McQueen Explorer II "Freccione" Ref. #1655 Straight Hand Watch, 1971
Rolex Steve McQueen Explorer II "Freccione" Ref. #1655 Straight Hand Watch, 1971

Rolex Steve McQueen Explorer II "Freccione" Ref. #1655 Straight Hand Watch, 1971

By Rolex

Located in Laguna Beach, CA

Brand: Vintage Rolex Model: Explorer II * UNPOLISHED* Year: 1971 Serial number: 327xxxxx Reference: #1655 Case: Show normal sign of wear with no sign of polish from previous; inner ...

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Recent Sales

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Chronometer Automatic Wristwatch Ref. 1655
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Chronometer Automatic Wristwatch Ref. 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Chronometer Automatic Wristwatch Ref. 1655

By Rolex

Located in Munich, Bavaria

Explorer Ref. 1655 Rare Explorer II, Orange Hand - Steve McQueen Case-Screwed case, steel, acrylic glass, screw-down crown Movement-Caliber Rolex 1570, automatic, chronometer...

Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen 1655
Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen 1655

Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen 1655

By Rolex

Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire

Ref: W4888 Manufacturer: Rolex Model: Explorer II Model Ref: 1655 Age: Gender: Mens Complete With: Box & Guarantee Dial: Black Baton Glass: Plexiglass Movement: Automatic Water Resi...

Category

1980s Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

This Explorer II was serviced at Rolex in 1991 and fitted during service with a new dial, bezel and hands. For those hunting for a vintage piece that looks like new, this would be th...

Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Serviced at Rolex and accompanied by the service records. Retaining the original bezel and thick case, the watch has an attractive soft patina and during service was fitted with newe...

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch ref 1655
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch ref 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch ref 1655

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Nice overall condition with an early original “T Swiss T” MK II dial, service bezel and newer flip lock bracelet. 40mm

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

ROLEX Ref# 1655 "Steve McQueen" Stainless Steel Explorer II

ROLEX Ref# 1655 "Steve McQueen" Stainless Steel Explorer II

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

A fantastic example of the coveted Orange Hand 1970's Ref# 1655 Explorer II. This wristwatch has an evenly aged dial with even patina distribution across markers. The orange hour han...

Category

1970s Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

ROLEX "Steve McQueen" Ref 1655 Stainless Steel Explorer II
ROLEX "Steve McQueen" Ref 1655 Stainless Steel Explorer II

ROLEX "Steve McQueen" Ref 1655 Stainless Steel Explorer II

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Stainless Steel Orange Hand "Steve McQueen" Explorer II by Rolex. A must have for all collectors, recognized for its original design with big orange 24-hour hand. A true tool watch w...

Category

1970s Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

ROLEX Ref 1655 Explorer II "Straight Hand" 1st Series
ROLEX Ref 1655 Explorer II "Straight Hand" 1st Series

ROLEX Ref 1655 Explorer II "Straight Hand" 1st Series

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Stainless Steel Orange Hand "Steve McQueen" Explorer II by Rolex. A must have for all collectors, recognized for its original design with big orange 24-hour hand. A true tool watch w...

Category

1970s Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel 1655 Explorer II Steve McQueen Automatic Wristwatch
Rolex Stainless Steel 1655 Explorer II Steve McQueen Automatic Wristwatch

Rolex Stainless Steel 1655 Explorer II Steve McQueen Automatic Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Boca Raton, FL

Brand: Rolex MPN: 1655 Model: Explorer II Case Material: Stainless Steel Case Diameter: 40mm Crystal: Plastic Bezel: Stainless steel graduated 24-hour bezel Dial: Black dial w...

Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Watch Ref 1655
Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Watch Ref 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Watch Ref 1655

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Unpolished condition Rolex Explorer II, aka "The Steve McQueen", complete with box and papers in absolutely exceptional condition, among the nicest we have encountered. Original beze...

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655
Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

For the purist who, like most collectors in today's market, prefers an unpolished case, we are pleased to offer this "Steve McQueen" Rolex Explorer II in original condition. Unspoile...

Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen Straight Hand Watch 1655
Vintage Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen Straight Hand Watch 1655

Vintage Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen Straight Hand Watch 1655

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A vintage Explorer II Steve McQueen wristwatch by Rolex. Featuring a matte black dial with a date aperture, an orange GMT hand and a fixed stainless steel 24 hour bezel. The watch is...

Category

Late 20th Century Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II "Steve McQueen" Wristwatch Ref 1655
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II "Steve McQueen" Wristwatch Ref 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II "Steve McQueen" Wristwatch Ref 1655

By Rolex

Located in Bal Harbour, FL

Circa 1978 with original 78360 bracelet MK2 Frog Foot Dial MK2 Bezel A wearable, collectable, iconic example of a 1970's Rolex. Also referred to as "Freccione" for the la...

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Pre-Owned Mint Rolex Explorer II Ref. #1655 with Patina
Pre-Owned Mint Rolex Explorer II Ref. #1655 with Patina

Pre-Owned Mint Rolex Explorer II Ref. #1655 with Patina

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

This watch is noted for its exceptional “pumpkin” colored patina, mint overall condition and unpolished case. It is an example that would suit the preference of the discerning collec...

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655 with Box & Papers
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655 with Box & Papers

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655 with Box & Papers

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

If you have been searching for the "perfect" Explorer II, you just found it! There are no excuses here; this offers everything you want: thick lugs, beautiful matched patina on the o...

Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Steve McQueen Orange Hand Wristwatch Ref 1655
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Steve McQueen Orange Hand Wristwatch Ref 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Steve McQueen Orange Hand Wristwatch Ref 1655

By Rolex

Located in Dallas, TX

Rolex stainless steel Explorer II orange hand Steve McQueen wristwatch, Ref. 1655, with automatic movement, 26 jewels, acrylic crystal.

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655 circa 1982
Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655 circa 1982

Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Wristwatch Ref 1655 circa 1982

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Rolex stainless steel Orange hand Explorer II Steve McQueen wristwatch, Ref 1655, circa 1982, with a cal. 1575 movement.

Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen Vintage Stainless Steel Matte Black Dial 1655
Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen Vintage Stainless Steel Matte Black Dial 1655

Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen Vintage Stainless Steel Matte Black Dial 1655

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A 40 mm Stainless Steel Explorer II Steve McQueen Vintage Gents Wristwatch, original matte black dial with hour markers, date at 3 0'clock, orange GMT hand, a fixed stainless steel 2...

Category

20th Century Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen Vintage Stainless Steel Matte Black Dial 1655
Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen Vintage Stainless Steel Matte Black Dial 1655

Rolex Explorer II Steve McQueen Vintage Stainless Steel Matte Black Dial 1655

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A Stainless Steel Explorer II Steve McQueen Vintage Gents Wristwatch, matte black dial with hour markers, date at 3 0'clock, orange GMT hand, a fixed stainless steel 24 hour bezel, a...

Category

20th Century Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Freccione Wristwatch Ref 1655
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Freccione Wristwatch Ref 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Freccione Wristwatch Ref 1655

By Rolex

Located in Miami Beach, FL

This is a Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 with an orange GMT hand known as the Steve McQueen or Freccione.

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Steve McQueen Wristwatch Ref 1655
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Steve McQueen Wristwatch Ref 1655

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Steve McQueen Wristwatch Ref 1655

By Rolex

Located in Miami Beach, FL

This is a great example of a stainless steel Rolex Explorer II, Ref. 1655, circa 1974. It has the original factory bezel and a beautiful original dial with pleasing luminous markers.

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Ref 1655 aka Steve McQueen or Freccione c.1974
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Ref 1655 aka Steve McQueen or Freccione c.1974

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer II Ref 1655 aka Steve McQueen or Freccione c.1974

By Rolex

Located in Miami Beach, FL

This is a great example of a Rolex Explorer II from 1970's. It has the original factory bezel and a beautiful original dial with pleasing luminous markers. This watch has been nickna...

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Explorer 1655 Men's Stainless Steel Watch
Rolex Explorer 1655 Men's Stainless Steel Watch

Rolex Explorer 1655 Men's Stainless Steel Watch

By Rolex

Located in Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire

Xupes Reference: W007886 Manufacturer: Rolex Model: Explorer Model Variant: 0 Model Number: 1655 Age: 1972 Gender: Men Complete With: Rolex Box, Translation Booklet, Rolex Booklet, S...

Category

1970s Unknown Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

1980s Rolex Explorer, ref. 1655
1980s Rolex Explorer, ref. 1655

1980s Rolex Explorer, ref. 1655

Sold

W 1.5 in D 0.56 in

1980s Rolex Explorer, ref. 1655

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

The Rolex Explorer is one of the more iconic, well known Rolex models of the past 40 years.

Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Steel Explorer II ref 1655 circa 1982
Rolex Steel Explorer II ref 1655 circa 1982

Rolex Steel Explorer II ref 1655 circa 1982

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex SS Explorer II ref 1655 serial # 7.2 million circa 1982.

Category

1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

ROLEX Steel Explorer II Ref# 1655 Circa 1982
ROLEX Steel Explorer II Ref# 1655 Circa 1982

ROLEX Steel Explorer II Ref# 1655 Circa 1982

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex SS Explorer II ref # 1655 serial #7.4 million circa 1982.

Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655

Materials

Stainless Steel

Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Vintage Rolex Explorer 1655", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Rolex for sale on 1stDibs

While the rise in popularity of vintage Rolex watches is of no surprise to aficionados, collectors and industry experts, when it comes to contemporary luxury wristwatches, Rolex is also often the first brand that springs to mind. Not only is the company revered for its precision timekeeping and impeccable craftsmanship, but its name was designed to be memorable.

Rolex's enviable worldwide recognition can be credited in part to the genius of company founder Hans Wilsdorf. When the German-born watch dealer and his brother-in-law, Alfred Davis, set up their London enterprise, in 1905, they called it Wilsdorf & Davis, according to the traditional formula.

But Wilsdorf was determined to come up with another name that was short, would look good on a watch dial and was easy to say and remember in several languages. In 1908, he trademarked the name Rolex, and by 1920, he had moved the company to Geneva and redubbed it as Montres Rolex S.A.

But the main reasons for the brand’s success are its aforementioned commitment to precision and unflagging pursuit of innovation. In 1926, the company introduced the aptly named Oyster model. With a screw-down crown and case back, both fitted with rubber gaskets, this was the first truly waterproof watch.

Five years later, Rolex upped the ante with the Oyster Perpetual. That model’s patented Perpetual movement contained a rotor mechanism enabling it to self-wind. In another trendsetting move, in 1945, the brand debuted the Datejust, with a date window prominently displayed on the dial.

The company’s two most iconic models are sports watches. Although the Submariner, which debuted in 1953, was developed as a dive watch, its waterproof case, solid construction and good looks made it a favorite of adventurers and urbanites alike, including James Bond, who wore it in classics like Dr. No and Goldfinger. The Daytona, the racing chronograph made famous by Paul Newman, is especially sought after by collectors. Newman’s personal Daytona, which hit the auction block in 2017, sold for $17.8 million.

Find vintage Rolex watches, bracelets and more on 1stDibs.

Finding the Right Wrist-watches for You

Antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches have captured the hearts and minds of all manner of watch collectors as well as the watchmakers themselves — it's time you found your own.

Certain vintage watches for men and iconic watch designs for women are sought after not only because of their graceful proportions or innovative materials but also because of the illustrious histories of the houses that created them, histories that they stylishly embody.

Bulgari’s legendary Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional wristwatches.

Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.

In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.

Are you shopping for a wristwatch? It’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.

Find antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches for sale on 1stDibs.

Questions About Rolex

  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
    An Oyster Perpetual on a Rolex watch refers to the watch's ability to run on the energy generated by the wearer's wrist movements rather than manual winding. At Baselworld in 2015, a variety of Rolex watches with a new-generation Oyster Perpetual movement were unveiled. Find a variety of vintage Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The popular Rolex Oyster Perpetual is usually between $5,900 and $6,600 in price.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Because platinum is denser than other metals, it is often more expensive to purchase platinum watches than gold. One of the most expensive watches sold was a Platinum Rolex worth $277,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    A new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watch is worth around $6,000. However, if it's encrusted with gems or vintage, it can cost as much as $50,000. 1stDibs has a great and vast selection of Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The new Submariner Rolex with a Black Bezel is worth around $8,100 with some of the more expensive new Submariners in yellow gold costing around $36,950.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To wind a Rolex watch, first fully unscrew the winding crown. Once it is in a raised position, carefully turn the crown clockwise. Most watches require 25 turns for enough winding to begin powering the watch. The instructions included with Rolex watches provide more information about how to wind specific models. Shop a large collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Depending on what kind of watch you're looking for, one may be better than the other. For instance, if you want a highly functional sport watch, some of Rolex's models may be better for you. That said, the brands' watches are very similar quality-wise. The main difference is their appearances: While Rolex designs more traditional timepieces, Panerai is more contemporary and bold.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex Submariner bears an 18k stamp and the number “750,” which means that 75 percent of the watch is made out of pure gold model. The most luxurious of all timepieces, the Rolex Submariner has been continuously manufactured since 1951. Find vintage Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Rolex uses only the highest quality melee diamonds with between D and G in color and IF in clarity. Every diamond is tested individually to make sure it is real.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    The size of a Rolex 126000 is 36 millimeters. It features a corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel case. Many collectors love the now discontinued watch due to this striking feature, which was available in a variety of vivid colors. Find an assortment of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    Yes, the Rolex 126000 is discontinued. Rolex discontinued the Oyster Perpetual ref 126000 in the early 2020s. However, the watch may be available on the secondary market via trusted online platforms, including 1stDibs. Find a collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    No, Rolex does not officially make sunglasses that are available for sale. They do however occasionally create promotional products, which have included sunglasses for sponsored events in the past. Browse a range of Rolex products that have been expertly authenticated on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To wind a Rolex Datejust, set the crown notch (located on the right hand side of the face) to position one. To set it to position one, turn the crown counterclockwise to unscrew the crown and pop the crown out one notch. From this position, start to wind the Rolex by turning the crown clockwise. You should feel a bit of tension and hear a soft clicking sound. Browse a wide selection of Rolex Datejust watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The lowest priced Rolex model is the Oyster Perpetual. This watch retails for roughly $5,000. On 1stDibs, you can can find a variety of Rolex watches for sale.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    While choosing a watch can depend on the wearer's style, there are a few consistent favorites. Some of the top Rolex watches for women include the Rolex Datejust, the Rolex Day-Date, and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The most expensive Rolex ever sold is the Paul Newman Daytona. This Rolex was purchased for $17.8 million in 2017. On 1stDibs, there are expensive Rolex watches but there is a wide variety available, so it should be easy to find a good fit for your tastes as well as your budget.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Rolex uses only the highest quality diamonds in their watches and compares these stones against certified master stones. They are the most colorless, so in ranges D to G.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    One of the cheapest Rolex watches is the Oyster Perpetual, which usually costs around $5,000. This model is made of oystersteel, an affordable type of steel.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    A contemporary Rolex Yacht Master costs around $11,000. However, a vintage model can cost up to $30,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is a great entry-level Rolex to purchase. The perpetual refers to the ability of the watch to use the energy of the wearer's wrist motion to run. It is a popular starter Rolex.