1655 what do you think?

[Jacksroley]

So im new to the vintage scene and just bought this 1655. I believe its a 1972 watch. I love the way the watch looks but what do you experts think? Thanks

[sensui]

It's awesome and I'm hunting for the right one myself right now. Great watch that grows on you over time.

[U5512]

I am sure that bezel is a new replacement.

[swish77]

What is the beginning of the serial number of your 1655? Looks very nice, although I agree it seems to be a replacement bezel, which is not the end of the world.

You might have visited this site before, but if not, here is an excellent reference for all things 1655: http://stefanomazzariol.blogspot.com...freccione.html

[Jacksroley]

The serial number starts 31. It has come with a folder full of service receipts and the bezel was indeed exchanged at service in 1994. Its also come with the original receipt of sale £149.00 in 1975.���� got the orginal box/ instruction and guarntee aswell. I have also found a straight hand, second hand in rolex packaging that came with the watch. Should this be on it? Thanks

[sensui]

The straight second hand should be early 70's so I think it's about right for the serial range. Man you're a lucky cat... I'm in the hunt for this watch in that time period. Enjoy it....maybe you'll come across a mark 1/2 bezel and it'll be all correct.

[Vincent65]

Gorgeous, congrats!

[Woody]

That is one of the best examples I have seen - the bezel would not worry me at all, it is just part of the history of the watch.

A great first purchase.

[Mick P]

Hi

That looks a nice restored watch and the bezel must be new. Without wishing to impose on this thread I have a question based on restored v leave as is.

Here is a pic of my 1655 is all its well worn glory. I had the calibre serviced and chose to leave the body and bezel untouched and looking at the OPs watch, I am sorely tempted to have a new bezel fitted. Any views which is best - restored or left as is. I know it is all subjective but I would be interested in your views.

Regards

Mick

[swish77]

Originally Posted by Jacksroley

The serial number starts 31. It has come with a folder full of service receipts and the bezel was indeed exchanged at service in 1994. Its also come with the original receipt of sale £149.00 in 1975.���� got the orginal box/ instruction and guarntee aswell. I have also found a straight hand, second hand in rolex packaging that came with the watch. Should this be on it? Thanks

Wow! You are a lucky man to have all of those bits and pieces! Can you post photographs of the set? I believe you have a MK1 dial on your Explorer II. It would have indeed come with the straight second hand, which is slightly more collectible. I'd have a watchmaker put it back on if it's in decent shape.

My MK2 1655 says Hi!

[Jacksroley]

Heres a pic of some of the bits that come with the watch as requested. I have had a look at the seconds hand and it looks ok so will refit that when i get a minute. Would love a mk1 bezel but they seem quite difficult to find thanks

[sensui]

What a beauty.....wish I was in your shoes heh. Congrats.

@ Mick, I would keep the watch as is, looks great in all its worn glory.

[mineral]

Nice watch and hope I will be able to find one like yours. The 1655 is growing on me.

[MrJ320]

Congrats!! Dial, hands, and case all look really nice. And awesome you still have a MK1 straight seconds hand you can install back onto the watch.

[Zoran]

That's a real beauty! Congratulations!
Put that straight hand on, and if you really want a MK1 bezel you should be very patient. They don't appear very often.
Especially in good shape.

Here is my MK1 so you can see what the end result would look like