The Rolex Explorer Ref. 6298 is an exceptionally rare and highly collectible example of Rolex’s earliest exploration watches. Dating to circa 1953, this reference is widely regarded as one of the most desirable pre-Explorer-era models, bridging Rolex’s early Oyster Perpetual sport watches with the birth of the iconic Explorer line.
This outstanding example retains its original silver honeycomb Explorer dial, correctly signed “Rolex Oyster Perpetual – Explorer” with the early “Shock-Resisting” designation—a defining hallmark of early 1950s Rolex sport references. The textured honeycomb dial dramatically enhances collectibility and is among the most sought-after dial variants produced by Rolex during this period.
The dial is beautifully detailed with applied Arabic numerals at 3, 6, and 9, faceted baton hour markers, gilt hands, and an applied Rolex coronet at 12 o’clock, all period-correct for the reference. Housed in a classic 36mm Oyster case crafted entirely in stainless steel, the watch exemplifies Rolex’s pioneering approach to durability and legibility.
Powering the watch is Rolex’s early automatic Oyster Perpetual movement, celebrated for its robustness and marking a key milestone in Rolex’s self-winding sports watch development. The watch is fitted with a burgundy suede leather strap, an aftermarket replacement that provides a tasteful, period-appropriate presentation while allowing the original case and dial to take center stage.
Basic Information:
Brand: Rolex
Model: Oyster Perpetual Explorer
Reference Number: 6298
Year: Circa 1953
Case Size: 36mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Movement: Automatic Oyster Perpetual
Crystal: Acrylic
Technical Specifications:
Case Shape: Round
Dial: Original Silver Honeycomb Explorer Dial
Markers: Applied Arabic Numerals at 3, 6, and 9 with Baton Hour Markers
Hands: Gilt
Bezel: Stainless Steel
Watch Label: Swiss Made
Bracelet / Strap:
Strap Material: Burgundy Suede Leather
Type: Aftermarket Replacement
Clasp: Tang Buckle
Condition:
Pre-Owned ~ Excellent vintage condition
Authentic vintage Rolex showing honest wear consistent with age. The stainless steel case and smooth steel bezel show light surface wear and patina appropriate for a 1950s timepiece. The dial is original and well-preserved with natural aging.
Please review all photos carefully for full details and condition.
Authentication & Quality Assurance:
Every timepiece at Avior undergoes comprehensive authentication and quality control. This vintage Rolex Explorer has been carefully inspected by our expert watchmakers to ensure authenticity, originality, and proper functionality.
Experience this historically significant Rolex Explorer in person at our Dallas boutique. Contact us at (214) 741-7129 to schedule your private viewing.
All designer/brand named pieces are categorized as pre-owned regardless of condition. We are not an authorized dealer of any brands represented.
The Rolex Explorer Ref. 6298 is an exceptionally rare and highly collectible example of Rolex’s earliest exploration watches. Dating to circa 1953, this reference is widely regarded as one of the most desirable pre-Explorer-era models, bridging Rolex’s early Oyster Perpetual sport watches with the birth of the iconic Explorer line.
This outstanding example retains its original silver honeycomb Explorer dial, correctly signed “Rolex Oyster Perpetual – Explorer” with the early “Shock-Resisting” designation—a defining hallmark of early 1950s Rolex sport references. The textured honeycomb dial dramatically enhances collectibility and is among the most sought-after dial variants produced by Rolex during this period.
The dial is beautifully detailed with applied Arabic numerals at 3, 6, and 9, faceted baton hour markers, gilt hands, and an applied Rolex coronet at 12 o’clock, all period-correct for the reference. Housed in a classic 36mm Oyster case crafted entirely in stainless steel, the watch exemplifies Rolex’s pioneering approach to durability and legibility.
Powering the watch is Rolex’s early automatic Oyster Perpetual movement, celebrated for its robustness and marking a key milestone in Rolex’s self-winding sports watch development. The watch is fitted with a burgundy suede leather strap, an aftermarket replacement that provides a tasteful, period-appropriate presentation while allowing the original case and dial to take center stage.
Basic Information:
Brand: Rolex
Model: Oyster Perpetual Explorer
Reference Number: 6298
Year: Circa 1953
Case Size: 36mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Movement: Automatic Oyster Perpetual
Crystal: Acrylic
Technical Specifications:
Case Shape: Round
Dial: Original Silver Honeycomb Explorer Dial
Markers: Applied Arabic Numerals at 3, 6, and 9 with Baton Hour Markers
Hands: Gilt
Bezel: Stainless Steel
Watch Label: Swiss Made
Bracelet / Strap:
Strap Material: Burgundy Suede Leather
Type: Aftermarket Replacement
Clasp: Tang Buckle
Condition:
Pre-Owned ~ Excellent vintage condition
Authentic vintage Rolex showing honest wear consistent with age. The stainless steel case and smooth steel bezel show light surface wear and patina appropriate for a 1950s timepiece. The dial is original and well-preserved with natural aging.
Please review all photos carefully for full details and condition.
Authentication & Quality Assurance:
Every timepiece at Avior undergoes comprehensive authentication and quality control. This vintage Rolex Explorer has been carefully inspected by our expert watchmakers to ensure authenticity, originality, and proper functionality.
Experience this historically significant Rolex Explorer in person at our Dallas boutique. Contact us at (214) 741-7129 to schedule your private viewing.
All designer/brand named pieces are categorized as pre-owned regardless of condition. We are not an authorized dealer of any brands represented.
