The Rolex Explorer II, a watch synonymous with exploration and adventure, boasts a rich history interwoven with tales of daring expeditions and technological innovation. While the modern iterations are instantly recognizable, the very first model, a subtly different beast, laid the groundwork for the iconic timepiece we know today. This article delves into the fascinating story of the original Explorer II, exploring its unique features, comparing it to its successors, and examining its lasting impact on the world of horology.
The Genesis of a Legend: The Rolex Explorer II Story
The Rolex Explorer II's story begins not in the bustling streets of Geneva, but in the unforgiving landscapes of the world's most challenging environments. Unlike its predecessor, the Explorer, which was designed for mountaineering expeditions, the Explorer II was conceived with a more specific purpose in mind: cave exploration. The need for a watch capable of reliably indicating both day and night in the perpetually dark confines of caves spurred Rolex to develop a crucial feature that would define the Explorer II: the independently adjustable 24-hour hand.
The first generation of the Explorer II, reference 1655, debuted in 1971. This inaugural model, often referred to as the "Freccione" (Italian for "arrow") due to the distinctive arrow-tipped 24-hour hand, differed significantly from its modern counterparts in several key aspects. While the core concept – a robust, reliable tool watch with a 24-hour hand – remained consistent, the execution reflected the technological and design sensibilities of the era. The very first reference looked and functioned a bit differently than the modern variation, but the Rolex Explorer II that’s well known today was more or less established in 1971 with the introduction of the reference 1655. This established the fundamental design and functional elements that would continue to evolve throughout subsequent generations.
Rolex Explorer II Size Chart & Size Guide: A Comparative Look
Understanding the dimensions of the Explorer II across different generations is crucial for appreciating its evolution. The reference 1655, with its 39mm case, appears smaller by today's standards, reflecting the prevailing trends in watch sizing during the 1970s. This relatively compact size contributed to its wearability, especially in challenging environments where bulk could be a hindrance.
Here’s a simplified size comparison (exact measurements may vary slightly due to tolerances):
* Reference 1655 (1971-1984): Approximately 39mm diameter. Lug-to-lug distance varies slightly depending on the specific year of production.
* Reference 16570 (1989-2011): Approximately 40mm diameter, representing a slight increase over the 1655.
* Reference 226570 (2011-Present): Approximately 42mm diameter, marking a significant jump in size compared to its predecessors.
This size progression reflects the changing preferences of consumers and the evolution of watch design. While the original 1655 might feel diminutive to modern tastes, its compact size was considered ideal for its time. The subsequent increases in case size, culminating in the current 42mm 226570, cater to a preference for larger, more imposing timepieces.
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