Vintage Rolex Explorer II “Orange Arrow/Steve McQueen”

The first Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II hit the U.S. market in 1971. This one was built in 1972. Between those two events, one was purchased by a rather prominent owner; American actor and race car driver Steve McQueen.

Although McQueen is associated with the Heuer brand on-screen, off-screen, he chose to buy and wear Rolex. Vintage Rolex Explorer II models (1971-1975) are known as “Steve McQueen” models among collectors, and superb examples such as this one are particularly coveted.

This Vintage Rolex Explorer II features the famous “orange arrow” 24-hour hand that featured during a brief production life of 1971-1975. Explorer II survivors with this feature are notably collectible and much-sought. Having received recent Rolex factory service and authentication, this “Steve McQueen” packs a pedigree to match its rugged good looks.

Rolex developed the Explorer II as a next-generation professional tool watch in the tradition of its GMT, Milgauss, Submariner, and Sea-Dweller references. Due to the challenge of determining day/night state while in extreme polar and subterranean environments, Rolex issued the Explorer II as a professional timepiece for a new generation of Energy Crisis-era prospectors. Thanks to the 24-hour hand, it is possible to distinguish between 8:00 and 16:00 at a glance.

This 1972 “Orange Arrow” Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II is a rarity in and of itself, but a complete factory set and full Rolex authentication paperwork place The 1916 Company’s example in a class by itself.

Unless you have an inside line on Steve McQueen’s personal stash, this is as good as it gets.