The Rolex Explorer II, a watch synonymous with exploration and adventure, boasts a rich history marked by subtle yet significant design evolutions. The reference 1655, the inaugural model of the Explorer II line, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors, largely due to its distinctive features, particularly its iconic 24-hour hand. This article will delve into the fascinating world of the Rolex Explorer II 1655, focusing specifically on its hands, their variations, and the factors that contribute to their often-observed patina and color changes over time. We will explore the nuances of the orange and red 24-hour hands, the reasons behind their color variations, and the significance of these details for both enthusiasts and collectors.
The Rolex Explorer II, unlike its simpler sibling the Explorer, was designed with a specific purpose in mind: assisting explorers and adventurers in navigating challenging environments, particularly in low-light conditions. The introduction of the 24-hour hand was crucial to this functionality. This additional hand, independent of the standard hour, minute, and second hands, allowed wearers to distinguish between AM and PM, even in environments where sunlight was scarce or nonexistent. This feature proved invaluable for cave explorers, mountaineers, and other professionals operating in demanding conditions. The 1655, therefore, marked a significant step forward in Rolex's commitment to creating robust and highly functional timepieces for professional use.
The Enigmatic Orange and Red 24-Hour Hands:
One of the most captivating aspects of the reference 1655 is the variability in the color of its 24-hour hand. While many examples feature a vibrant orange hand, a considerable number exhibit a red 24-hour hand. This variation has led to much speculation and debate among collectors, with various theories attempting to explain this discrepancy. The exact reason for this difference remains somewhat elusive, with no definitive official statement from Rolex clarifying the production choices. However, several plausible explanations have been proposed:
* Early Production Variations: It's possible that the initial production runs of the 1655 utilized different batches of luminous material or paint, resulting in slight variations in the hue of the 24-hour hand. This is a common occurrence in vintage watchmaking, where consistency in materials and manufacturing processes wasn't always as precise as it is today.
* Regional Differences: Another theory suggests that the color variation might be linked to regional distribution. Perhaps certain markets received watches with predominantly orange hands, while others received watches with predominantly red hands. This is purely speculative, however, and lacks concrete evidence.
* Restoration and Replacement: A significant factor to consider is the potential for restoration and replacement parts. Over the decades, many 1655s have undergone servicing, and if the 24-hour hand was damaged or lost, replacement parts might not always have perfectly matched the original color. This would lead to a diverse range of hand colors seen on extant examples today.
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