Feels a bit strange to review a watch from 1974. The Rolex Explorer II 1655 is one that I’ve had my eye on for ages. I love the look. I love that it is a ’70s Rolex steel sports watch that is not as common as many other models. I’m also a sucker for 24 hour dials. The 1655 is also fun to hunt for as they age in so many different ways with the lume and the 24 hour hand both being affected by the age and environment.

The problem for me was that as I hunted, these watches just got more and more expensive. So, do you spend a ridiculous amount for a perfect one or do you skimp a bit, knowing that what you’re buying is not quite perfect but being happy you got something that is good enough, knowing it is not something you plan on reselling anyway.

I went the latter route. This Rolex Explorer II 1655 is from 1974. It has a service dial so the lume is not quite as pretty as some examples. No box or papers and it came on a Rolex Jubilee bracelet – they were only sold on oysters. Happy to say, for me, it was the right decision, I love this watch.

Pros: Love the somewhat quirky styling. Love the spelunking history. It has that great 70’s Rolex feel: solid and rugged without heft for the sake of heft. I also like the idea of wearing something that is kind of like a submariner but is not.

Cons: It’s a vintage and, even with the sacrifices, an expensive watch so my 1655 is not something I feel as comfortable knocking around in as I would like. Also, no quick set date so it either needs to take a spot in the winder or you have to deal with an incorrect date or a lot of time setting it if you’re not going to be wearing it every day.