1955 Rolex 6610 Explorer

Description: 1926, Hans Wildorf patents the ‘Screw Crown’ and registers the name ‘Oyster’.

Many will cite an Explorer’s Tenzig Norgay and Sir Hillary origins, but many forget that 1930’s Oysters (precursor to Precisions) swam the English Channel, cruised Bonneville’s Salt Flats, flew above Everest years before its summit – ethos of the eventual 50’s Explorer emerged from 20’s extract. When you’re attempting feats where every small moment counts, where each breath across the surface is timed, clarity and comprehension aren’t options or obligations, they’re a necessity – with the Explorer’s universally simple but effective design, matte black dial and 3/6/9 configuration, clarity and comprehension are simple guarantees.

This 1955 6610 is a wonderfully worn example, whose chapter ring matte black gilt dial lettering remains perfectly intact. The face has been textured by radium, commonplace with such radioactive luminescence, and its presence has burgeoned – fully engendered with the soft cream hue of time. Previously polishing of the steel oyster case remains even throughout, preserving the Explorer’s do-everything, all-purpose allure.

Case: 36mm steel, 6mm screw crown, acrylic crystal

Dial: Gilt chapter ring, textured by radium, burgeoned creamy lume