Important Collectors’ Wristwatches, P...

New York - The Fuller Building, Mar 28, 2007

LOT 230

"Explorer - Red Depth Indication" Rolex, Oyster Perpetual "Explorer", Officially Certified Chronometer, Ref. 6610. Made in 1956. Fine and extremely rare, center seconds, self-winding, water-resistant, stainless steel gentleman's wristwatch with a stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet.

USD 10,000 - 15,000

EUR 8,000 - 11,000

Sold: USD 21,240

C. Three-body, polished and brushed, screwed-down case back and crown. D. Black with luminous Arabic numerals and indexes, "50 m = 165 ft" printed in red, gilt outer minute track. Luminous gold "skeleton" hands. M. Cal. 1030, rhodium-plated, 25 jewels, straight-line lever escapement, monometallic balance adjusted to temperatures and 5 positions, shock absorber, self-compensating Breguet balance spring. Dial, case and movement signed. Diam. 36 mm. Thickness 13 mm.


LOADING IMAGES
Click to full view
Image
Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-6-01

Good

Slightly oxidized

HANDS Original

Notes

The interest of collectors in watches with Explorer dials has continuously increased since 1953. The Explorer was described as "The reinforced Rolex". It has been used in the Arctic, the Himalayas and the Tropics with a design to give accuracy under the toughest outdoor conditions. The first reference of the Explorer was 6350 which was replaced by reference 6150 that was made 2mm larger. The 6150 was produced until 1959 and was replaced by reference 6610, which bears a flatter back and was produced with the improved 1030 caliber and signed Chronometer on the dial. The 6610 was only in production for five yea rs and it is extremely rare to find one with a red depth indication. This is the first example of an Explorer ref. 6610 with red depth indication to be offered for auction in Antiquorum.