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Rolex Explorer II “22 Special Air Service”

216570

£57,500

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Now available, an extraordinarily rare Rolex Explorer II reference 216570 “22 Special Air Service”, delivered through Rolex London in December 2012.

Few modern military Rolex watches capture the imagination quite like the SAS Explorer II. Produced exclusively for serving members of the 22 Special Air Service, these watches were never available to the public and remain amongst the most elusive factory-issued military Rolexes of the modern era. Available in both black and white dial configurations, only a very small number are believed to have been commissioned, each individually engraved for its original owner and obtainable solely through Rolex London.

What truly sets this example apart is its wonderful originality and remarkable completeness. Beyond the beautifully engraved caseback, displaying the iconic winged dagger insignia alongside the individual soldier’s service number, the case flank carries the regiment’s immortal motto, “WHO DARES WINS”, engraved by Rolex from new. It is details like these that transform an already exceptional Explorer II into an extraordinarily personal piece of British military history. Even the outer sleeve retains its original commission sticker, naming the representative responsible for the project together with the watch’s individual ZAP number, whilst the watch itself remains accompanied by its complete set of accessories from new, including its Rolex London-signed warranty card, serialised swing tag, presentation box and accompanying literature.

Perhaps most importantly, this is not a watch that has spent its life hidden away in a safe. It has clearly accompanied its original owner throughout the years, and every small mark, scratch and knock simply adds to its story. An extraordinary opportunity to acquire one of Rolex’s rarest modern military commissions, with impeccable provenance and one of the most desirable factory engravings ever to leave Geneva. The watch is available for viewing in London and purchase worldwide. Please get in touch for further information.