---
title: "Rolex Explorer II 40mm 'Steve McQueen MK II' Stainless Steel Oyster 1655 1978"
type: "product"
brand: "Rolex"
model: "Explorer Ii"
reference: "1655"
price: 16995
currency: "GBP"
condition: "Pre-owned"
year: 1978
category: "Watches"
subcategory: "Rolex"
availability: "In Stock"
url: "https://thediamondbox.co.uk/product/rolex-explorer-ii-40mm-1655-steve-mcqueen-mk2-stainless-steel-1978"
image: "https://thediamondbox.co.uk/uploads/original_image/50d3f662eae5321f24fbc27c0f9fd77e.png"
updated: "2026-04-10"
---

# Rolex Explorer II 40mm 'Steve McQueen MK II' Stainless Steel Oyster 1655 1978

## Price

**£16,995** (Finance available from £1598.95/month)

## Description

This 1978 Rolex Explorer II 40mm ‘Steve McQueen MK II’ is a highly collectible vintage tool watch crafted in stainless steel, featuring a black dial with luminous hour markers, distinctive orange 24-hour hand and fixed steel bezel. Finished on the classic Oyster bracelet.Introduced in 1971, the Explorer II ref. 1655 was designed for cave explorers and adventurers. The “Steve McQueen” nickname and MK II dial variation have made this reference one of the most sought-after vintage Rolex sports models.This watch has been checked against technical records to guarantee authenticity and clean history.Comes with original box.Ref: 1655

## Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| Brand | Rolex |
| Reference Number | 1655 |
| Year | 1978 |
| Condition | Pre-owned |
| Serial | 5356301 |
| Model | Explorer Ii |
| Certified | Yes |
| Papers | No |
| Box | Authentic Box |
| Gender | Gents |
| TDB Limited Lifetime Warranty | Yes |
| Case Size | 40mm |
| Strap design | Oyster |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Bezel material | Stainless Steel |
| Dial Colour | Black |
| Movement | Automatic |
| Bracelet Size (cm) | 17 |
| Keywords | Explorer II, Explorer II 40mm, Steve McQueen, 1655, Rolex Explorer II, Rolex |

## About The Diamond Box

The Diamond Box is North London's distinguished destination for luxury watches and gold jewellery since 1997. Visit us at 114 Ballards Lane, N3 2DN, London or call 020 8838 3655.


[View this product on our website](https://thediamondbox.co.uk/product/rolex-explorer-ii-40mm-1655-steve-mcqueen-mk2-stainless-steel-1978)