Technical Details & Model History

• Case: 18kt yellow gold, approx. 36 mm diameter
• Movement: automatic Rolex “Perpetual” caliber A260
• Dial: original with beautiful, even patina and applied gold indexes
• Crystal: domed plexiglass
• Bracelet: original Gay Frères 18kt yellow gold bracelet, perfectly period-correct
• Reference: 6098
• Year of production: 1953
• Condition: excellent, completely original and beautifully preserved

Key Features

• Reference 6098 is one of the precursors to the Explorer line, famously worn during historic expeditions such as the ascent of Everest
• Large 36 mm case and domed dial — features that anticipated the design of Rolex’s future sports watches
• Original dial with naturally developed patina of remarkable uniformity and charm
• Original Gay Frères 18kt gold bracelet — an extremely rare and highly valuable collector’s detail

Historical Context

The Rolex ref. 6098 is one of the most significant references in Rolex history, regarded as the direct ancestor of the first Explorer. Produced in the early 1950s, it was chosen for high-altitude expeditions thanks to its robustness and precision. This example in 18kt yellow gold, with its original patinated dial and Gay Frères bracelet, represents an absolute rarity — a true piece of Rolex sports watch history, preserved in outstanding condition.