Lot 246
  • 246

Rolex

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 CHF
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Description

  • A STAINLESS STEEL AUTOMATIC CENTRE SECONDS WRISTWATCH WITH 24-HOUR INDICATION DATE AND BRACELET REF 1655 CASE 4028457 EXPLORER II STEVE MCQUEEN CIRCA 1975
  • stainless steel
  • diameter 38 mm bracelet circumference approx. 185 mm
• cal. 1570 automatic nickel-finished lever movement, 26 jewels • black dial, luminous baton, square and triangle indexes, baton hands, central orange 24 hour hand, magnified aperture for date at 3 • stainless steel Oyster case, bezel calibrated for 24 hours, screw-down back and crown with guards • case, dial and movement signed • with a stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet

Condition

The movement is running and date in working condition at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement.The dial and hands in good condition, no longer glowing. Dial nicely patinated with some losses to the luminescent material to the 24hour track between 1 and 5. The case in good and well preserved condition, still with sharp edges, possibly very gently polished. With some minor and inevitable scuffs, scratches and indentations from use, especially to the bottom right lug. Bracelet 78360, end links 580.The outer packaging with a tad 6694.Overall in good condition, highly recommended.
"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."

Catalogue Note

The reference 1655 was launched by Rolex in 1971 until 1984, and is known to collectors as the 'Steve McQueen'. This name derives from the actor's status as an icon of style at the time of the watch's production. It is also called 'Freccione' as a short form for 'Orange hand'.  

This reference can be considered as a true "tool watch" as in addition to providing the 24 hour indication, the orange hand also serves as a compass. If it is pointing to the sun, the North is at 12/24 o'clock in the Northern hemisphere and the opposite in the Southern hemisphere. 

Consigned by its original owner, in well-preserved condition and coming with a very complete set, this lot is a rare opportunity to acquire a most attractive example of this iconic reference.

A similar example is illustrated in Skeet, M. & Urul, N., Vintage Rolex Sports Models, 2002, p. 85.