Explorer II 1655 Mk2 Frog Foot Dial “Albino”
The Inside Story
The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 holds a special place in the hearts of vintage Rolex collectors. First introduced in 1971, it was designed as a true tool watch, specifically for spelunkers and cave explorers with a fixed 24-hour bezel and a bold, highly legible layout. Over the years, subtle design variations in the dial and bezel have turned each iteration into a collectible in its own right.
Unlike many of Rolex’s sport models that gained status-symbol recognition early on, the 1655 flew under the radar for quite some time. It was purely functional at launch, never intended to be flashy—which, ironically, makes it even more sought-after today.
What we have here is a standout example of one of the earliest executions: a Mark 2, nicknamed the "Frog Foot" dial, as the coronet resembles a frog’s footprint. It also features the rare straight seconds hand, used before Rolex introduced the luminous "lollipop" tip in later versions—and a beautifully preserved steel bezel with centred thick numerals, giving the watch its distinctive character.
Both the case and bezel are in strong, well-preserved condition, and the dial is beautiful, showcasing creamy yellow lume plots with a wonderfully aged tone.
The unmistakable orange 24-hour hand has faded over time, taking on a pale yellow hue—a look affectionately nicknamed “Albino.” The watch is fitted with a folded Oyster bracelet, reference 7836, with 280 end links and a clasp stamped “1 71.” Included in the sale is an older Rolex service card from 2009.
Fully serviced by our watchmaker, this Explorer II is ready for everyday wear—or to be tucked into a serious collector’s vault.
Among matte-dial vintage Rolex sports models, the 1655 remains one of the coolest—and arguably most underappreciated. This example ticks all the right boxes: a bold faded-orange hand, clean straight seconds, and a warm, even yellow patina.
Drop us a message if you're ready to explore this classic “Albino” for yourself—this one’s a gem!
Specifications:
- Rolex Reference 1655 Explorer II
- Mk 2 “Frog Foot dial”
- “Straight” second hand & faded to light orange 24-hour hand or “Albino”
- Steel 40mm case
- Serial 302xxxx dating to 1972
- Oyster bracelet ref 7836 with end links 280
- Fully serviced by our watchmaker
- 2009 Rolex service card
- One-year mechanical warranty
- Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping
Service & Warranty
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Service & Warranty
Our Service
Each vintage timepiece is individually selected and carefully inspected by our team of experts. After we buy a watch it is mechanically inspected and fully checked by our watchmaker. If necessary, the movement will be fully serviced and tested to ensure it is running to our exacting standards.
We will always describe the watch as fully as we can in our sales texts. Our zoomable images are of the highest possible quality and form an important part of each watch’s description. We will never hide or cover up any element of any watch we sell.
Key to our unparalleled service is Fedex Priority shipping, fully insured. Once you have received your watch, we encourage you to inspect it thoroughly. If you are not 100% satisfied, please let us know. We offer a 14 days return policy. Simply return the watch to get a full refund of the original purchase price.
Our Warranty
We offer a one-year warranty on the mechanical function of the watch, starting from the day of purchase. We do not guarantee the waterproof nature of any (vintage) watch, unless expressly made in writing. Therefore, our warranty will not cover any damage done to the case and/or movement by water or moisture entering the watch. Our warranty does not apply to accidental damage or mishandling of your watch and does not extend to the bracelet, case parts (including pushers, winding stem, crown and bezel), watch glass, dial and hands.
Why Buy From Us?
We Love Watches
We are passionate about vintage watches and we love talking about them! That is why we don't sell our watches with a simple "Add to cart" button, but instead try to emulate a truly boutique experience online. Helping you find your perfect vintage watch is our Watch Department’s raison d’etre. Whatever you would like to ask, please do. Building our community of watch lovers is central to our mission at Bulang and Sons.
We Know Watches
At Bulang and Sons we have sold thousands of watches over the years. We are a small team of experienced collectors and connoisseurs who are all part of an extensive global network of buyers and sellers. We have a great reputation for offering only the highest quality watches. We have one simply rule: we only buy and sell watches we want to own ourselves. And yes, we are still collectors too.
We Guarantee Watches
As collectors, we know how intense the search for a specific vintage watch can be. Once you find it at Bulang and Sons, we want to make things easy, safe and fast for you. Therefore, we offer the most comprehensive return policy and warranty; you will not find a safer place on the internet to buy a vintage watch. You can relax and enjoy your deal with Bulang and Sons.