00/24 WatchWorld

Nope. Not talking about a couple that divorced and now need to stand side by side for an awkward family portrait at their daughter's wedding.  I am talking about my reference 1655 Rolex Explorer II next to the new reference 216570 that was introduced at this year's BaselWorld watch show.

Many of you are probably away on vacation enjoying sandy beaches, endless glasses of cooling liquids and perhaps an ice cream from the land of Rai Uno, Panerai and Ferraris. In that sentiment I recently purchased a NATO strap for my ref. 1655 Rolex Explorer II Freccione. 

Yet again I could not resist. Have long been a fan of the odd "Freccione" ref. 1655 Rolex Explorer II and yes, I even modified a ref. 1675 with 1655 parts, but it just ain't the same as the real McKoy. As I appreciate a thick case with good bevels, I opted for a late version. The 1655 I just bought is a 1980 model. Serviced less than two years ago and looks...well...stunning! I attached a NATO strap instead of the FlipLock bracelet (a 1998 version according to the small three digit number inside the clasp) as the soft NATO-strap adds wearing comfort and also feels way better than a bracelet on these warm and humid summer days.

I know I know. Showing off my customized Rolex GMT ref. 1675 from 1967 with a ref. 1655 Explorer ”Freccione” service dial will undoubtedly create online name-calling, outrageous hatred and other hot-tempered reactions from the many fanatic Rolex communities around the world. I might even get hate mails once the detectives find out where I live.