Rolex released the Explorer in 1953 to celebrate the conquering of Everest by Sir Edmond Hilary and Tenzing Norgay. Both wore the Explorer prototype in marketing pictures and it showed a Rolex could be worn in the sea and the top of the World. Hilary later said he left his at base camp and wore a Smiths and Tenzing wore his own watch….. The iconic oversize 3, 6 and 9 along with the Mercedes hands dial was born.
This is a wonderfully original example dating from 1960. The original and untouched radium dial (denoted by the simple ‘Swiss’ reference under the ‘6’) has aged beautifully. The matt black background and dark mushroom lume looks stunning. The large size (for its day) steel case is again in excellent condition. The very high grade ‘Chronometer’ standard movement is again in excellent condition and has been fully serviced by Steve Hale. We have added a super high quality black Hirsch ‘London’ alligator strap with steel Hirsch buckle.
The watch is just back from a full refurbishment by Steven Hale, the UK’s best watchmaker at a cost of £2,600 – I’ve shown the work that was carried out. It also comes with the SHWR 2 year guarantee.
This is a simply stunning example of one of the most iconic watches in the Rolex range.