The Rolex Explorer II, a robust and dependable tool watch, boasts a rich history interwoven with exploration and adventure. While its lineage can be traced back to the original Explorer's spirit of conquering the unknown, the Explorer II carved its own niche, specifically designed for expeditions into challenging environments where precise timekeeping and directional awareness are paramount. This article delves into the *Geschichte* (history) of the Rolex Explorer II, exploring its key iterations, design evolution, and enduring appeal. We'll cover everything from its inception to the modern models, touching upon specific references and answering common questions related to purchasing and choosing the right Explorer II for you.
The Genesis: A Tool Watch for Cave Exploration
Unlike its predecessor, the Explorer, which was directly linked to the 1953 conquest of Everest, the Explorer II’s origins are less directly tied to a single, iconic expedition. Instead, its development was driven by the needs of spelunkers and cave explorers. Navigating the dark and disorienting depths of caves requires a reliable timepiece with a clear indication of both time and elapsed time. This need led Rolex to introduce a crucial feature that would become synonymous with the Explorer II: the independently adjustable 24-hour hand.
This 24-hour hand, coupled with a fixed 24-hour bezel, allows the wearer to distinguish between AM and PM, a critical function in low-light or completely dark environments. This feature proved invaluable, not just for cave exploration, but also for a wide range of activities where distinguishing day and night is crucial, including mountaineering, polar exploration, and even piloting.
The Early Years and the Reference 1655
The first generation Explorer II, reference 1655, debuted in 1971. This model featured the iconic orange 24-hour hand, a distinctive feature that would persist through many subsequent iterations. The 1655 housed the Calibre 1570, a robust movement known for its reliability. Aesthetically, the 1655 possessed a larger 39mm case compared to the contemporary Explorer, reflecting its purpose as a more rugged tool watch. The fixed bezel, marked with 24-hour graduations, complemented the 24-hour hand, providing a simple yet effective method for tracking time and distinguishing between day and night.
The 1655 quickly gained a following amongst adventurers and professionals who valued its functionality and durability. Its larger size and increased water resistance (150 meters) compared to the standard Explorer made it a more suitable choice for challenging environments. The production of the 1655 continued until 1984, solidifying its place as a highly sought-after vintage Rolex. Variations within the 1655 reference exist, most notably differences in the dial and hands, adding to the collector's interest in this iconic model.
The Evolution: Reference 16570 and the Calibre 3185
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