Rolex 1655 Explorer II

[btmclemore]

My father recently gave me his Rolex. After taking the watch to a number of watch repairmen and jewelers and checking the online tests for legitimacy, the timepiece appears to be a legit Rolex.

The bracelet is not a genuine Rolex bracelet. Despite having the Rolex Crown on the clasp, it is stamped with "Kreisler" "Hong Kong" on the inside.

After inspecting the the watch with a jeweler's glass/magnifyer, there was a model number of "1655" between the lugs at the twelve o'clock position. There was also a serial number of 2912*** or 2942*** (there is a question that the third digit could be a "4"). The face of the watch says, "Explorer II".

After researching the watch online, the serial numbers (regardless of the third number being 1 or 4) are said to be issued during 1969 or 1970. However, I've read the Explorer II was introduced in 1972.



Noobie Questions...

1. The orange hand is no longer on the 24 hour hand. Apparently, someone has stripped the orange hand. The hand is fully functional, but it's simply a black/gray hand with no orange. Is the hand able to be replaced without damaging the watch's value?

2, The band is not a genuine Rolex band. Where would one find a Rolex band that would be either a 1971 band, or a real Rolex band that would fit the watch? Is it worth the search for a 1971/1972 band, or would a Rolex band that fit the watch suffice?

3. Is it unusual for the serial number to show a date off 1969 or 1970 with the Explorer II was introduced in 1971 or 1972?

4. With the photos that are attached to this post, does the timepiece (not the bracelet/band) appear to be a legit Rolex 1655 Explorer II ?

Any information is appreciated.

Thanks,

[Old Expat Beast]

You already have a thread going on this watch here: www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=442646