Rolex

Designed as a tool watch for those who push the limits of exploration, the Explorer II was developed as a robust and highly legible evolution of the original three‑hand Oyster Perpetual Explorer. Built to withstand high humidity, intense heat, and freezing temperatures, it was specifically intended for use in environments such as deep cave systems and high‑altitude peaks. Rolex targeted speleologists and underground explorers who spent long periods without natural light and would benefit from the clear 24‑hour indication to tell day from night.

Launched in 1971, reference 1655 features a fixed steel bezel engraved with a 24‑hour scale and a distinctive large orange hand — the celebrated Freccione — allowing the wearer to distinguish day from night at a glance.

The model is closely associated with extreme explorations and mountaineering, personified by the most influential high‑altitude climber of all time, Reinhold Messner. Field use under real‑world conditions played a crucial role in Rolex’s ongoing technical refinement of its watches. Messner received such watches for use during his climbs, and was photographed wearing an Explorer II on numerous expeditions. 

The significance of the present reference 1655 extends far beyond its technical attributes. It was gifted by Reinhold Messner to his long-time expedition logistician, Prithivi Raj Chettri, known as “Bobby.” Bobby devoted his life to the meticulous planning and coordination of Himalayan treks and more than 60 major expeditions, including the 1978 Austrian Everest Expedition led by Wolfgang Nairz — during which Messner and Peter Habelar achieved the first ascent of Mount Everest without supplemental oxygen.

In pursuits shaped by nature — where conditions dictate outcome and fate is never entirely one’s own — trust and bond is everything. Over years of shared objectives, risks, and achievements, Messner and Bobby developed a friendship that transcended their profession. Messner spent countless evenings with Bobby and his family, becoming closely woven into their lives. To commemorate their bond, Messner gifted Bobby one of his personal watches: the present Rolex Explorer II, dating from 1979. 

Consigned by the family of the original owner, the watch is accompanied by a letter from Messner to Bobby’s son, photographs as well as Messner’s own ice axe — elements that add exceptional historical and collector interest. The accompanying guarantee, stamped by Rolex’s German headquarters in Cologne, Germany, and signed by Herr König confirms that the watch was not commercially retailed but issued directly to Messner, further reinforcing its exceptional provenance. 

Produced until the mid‑1980s, reference 1655 was issued with five distinct dial variations. The present watch displays the Mk 4 dial with serif‑style “T SWISS < 25 T”, correct for its serial number. Retaining all its characteristic features and presented in exceptionally attractive condition, both case and dial, this timepiece captivates through its completeness.

Adding to its desirability, this early example is accompanied by its full set of original accessories, together with exceptional Reinhold Messner memorabilia, including his ice axe, signed photographs, and personal correspondence between Messner and the consignor, as well as a letter attesting to the watch’s provenance, further enhancing its historical importance and uniqueness.

A watch shaped by the most demanding environments and enriched by a deeply personal story, the present Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 rises far beyond its function. Opportunities to acquire such a complete and historically significant example remain exceedingly rare, offering collectors the chance to secure not only an icon of Rolex, but a true piece of mountaineering history.