Brand: Rolex
Model: Explorer II
Reference: 1655
Year: 1980
Serialnumber: 6044XXX
Material: Steel
Bracelet: Steel
Diameter: 40 Millimeter
Condition: very good
Box&Papers: yes, full set
A superlative Orange Hand from the Catalan sun.
The case is in unpolished condition. Full lugs, sharp edges, and a very good matte finish present a vintage case in top condition. This is exactly how a 1655 Orange Hand case should look to meet all quality criteria. With the 1655, you can easily see whether a case has been polished before or, as in this case, is in pristine condition. On the crown side, check if you can still see the case above and below the crown guard before the bezel begins. If, as here, this is the case, then you know everything is perfect.
Of course, the watch has a few signs of wear, some sleeve polish, but overall, it’s a beauty.
The highlight is undoubtedly the dial. An Orange Hand is only truly beautiful if the patina is right. If the lume material hasn’t aged, the watch appears rather cold and lacks radiance. Here, we have the exact opposite. This fantastic MKVI dial has a patina of outstanding quality. The lume material has aged almost perfectly and evenly to a rich vanilla. Furthermore, the print is crisp and the dial is in top vintage condition.
The hands, especially the orange hand, leave nothing to be desired. The patina perfectly complements the dial and the orange hand delights with its vibrant orange color.
The wonderful MK3 bezel is also unpolished, with perfect numerals and typical light signs of wear.
This superb 1655 Orange Hand comes as a wonderful full set. It has been sold on June 5, 1981, by rolex authorized dealer Joyero Vendrell in Barcelona, Spain. The set is truly excellent including the original pouch with serial number sticker and Explorer II booklet.
The watch has been recently serviced, is water-resistant, and runs beautifully. Thus, years of enjoyment are guaranteed.
The 78360 Oyster bracelet is also in top condition. It shows no stretch and only minimal signs of wear. The bracelet has been replaced once and is slightly newer than the watch.
Conclusion: Kissed by the Catalan sun. An orange hand you won’t find again anytime soon.





























