Lot 122
  • 122

Rolex

Estimate
18,000 - 25,000 CHF
bidding is closed

Description

  • A STAINLESS STEEL AUTOMATIC WRISTWATCH WITH DATE, 24-HOUR INDICATION AND BRACELETCIRCA 1972 REF 1655 OYSTER PERPETUAL EXPLORER II "STEVE MCQUEEN"
  • DIAMETER 38 MM
• cal.1570 automatic nickel lever movement, 26 jewels, free-sprung mono-metallic compensation balance, adjusted to 5 positions and temperatures • black dial with luminescent triangular, square and baton numerals, luminescent hands, centre seconds, orange arrow-form hand corresponding to 24-hour indication on bezel • stainless steel case, bezel calibrated for 24 hours, screw-down crown with protective shoulders, down-turned lugs, screw back • case, dial and movement signed • with a stainless steel Rolex bracelet and folding clasp

Condition

Automatic movement running, all functions appear fully operational while cataloguing. Dial is clean and looks good. Case is scuffed, scratched and retains one dent on each of the back lugs. Ref 1655. Serial number 3046608. A collectible and rare example for Rolex vintage wristwatches.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Catalogue Note

Reference 1655, was launched by Rolex in 1971. As the dial and case design, not to mention the large orange hand, were great departures from the traditional conservative styles of Rolex models to this point, this model was not immediately popular at the time of its debut. In recent years, however, it has become very popular with collectors who like the large size of the case and the non-traditional secondary hour hand. In today's market, Reference 1655 is known to collectors as the 'Steve McQueen'. This name comes from the actor's status as an icon of style rather than the fact that he necessarily wore one. In fact, in many press photos, he is known to have worn a Submariner, Ref. 5512.