A historically important Rolex Explorer, in the original condition every collector dreams of seeing.

Explorer ref. 6610's are extremely rare, with fewer than 20 examples advertised for sale worldwide, of which none appear to be in the exceptional condition of our example from 1958. 

Introduced in 1955 and only produced to 1959, the Rolex reference 6610 is one of the earliest explorer models, and replaced the reference 6350. The two watches appear nearly identical, however, this particular reference is identified by its flatter caseback. This is due to Rolex's use of the slimmer self-winding calibre 1030, over the reference 6150’s larger, chunkier movement, which required a bubble-back style case to accommodate it. Fitted to its riveted 7206 Oyster bracelet, with 58 end links, waterproof to 50m and guaranteed for two years.

The gilt typeface and detailing, like the closed chapter ring and "OCC" text on this 36mm steel Explorer are actually part of dial manufacturing process. Stencilled into the brass dial plate, and then applied with layer upon layer of glossy lacquer, creating a debossed golden finish. Its original radium hour markers and rare matching hands have aged harmoniously to a rich tone, mirroring the gilt dial perfectly.

At the very birth of the Explorer bloodline, this extremely important example hasn't had its hands or dial replaced in servicing, and is presented here as a blueprint of how all 6610's should look.