I am not sure what is the allure behind the ref. 6098 watch is to me. All I know is that I love the simplicity of design. It's strange, it seems so many collector's go for the most complex design and for pieces with the most complications. While, I can appreciate a Patek or Audemars pereptual, nothing beats a beautiful piece of minimalism.
(Enter Rolex ref. 6098)
"The Rolex Pre-Explorer, Mount Everest"
Antiquorum Description:
Estimated Price: 20000 – 40000 CHF
Hammer Price: 145300 CHF
35.5mm in case diameter, 14mm thick, case number is 726182, ref. 6098, made in the first quarter of 1953, water resistant, central seconds hand, self winding, solid stainless steel case and bezel, polished and brushed, inclined bezel, screw-in crown and case back, matte finished silver honeycomb dial with recessed engraved faceted baton and dart indexes, stainless steel Rolex buckle, accompanied by the Ice Axe used by Alfred Gregory during the Everest expedition, five original photos, three of them showing the occasion which Alfred Gregory wearing Rolex watch, a Rolex service letter, and a letter of authenticity from the wife of Alfred Gregory.
Movement
775 rhodium-plated movement, 18 jewels, linear lever escapement, self-compensating Breguet balance spring, regulator, dial, case and movement are all signed.
Comment
Rolex watches have conquered the hearts of many people, not because how complex the Rolex wathes are and what a profound historic root it has, but it is just because of its simplicity and durability, under harsh environment, it can keep good accuracy. The watch auctioned is made in 1953, it has very simple
function and movement.
The owner of the Rolex watch is Alfred Gregory, he is a great explorer, he and his companions reached the summit of Mount Everest that is 8500 high, at that time, he was wearing Rolex, so, this watch has very precious historic significance. This “simple” Rolex watch was auctioned over one million yuan. To buy a simple Rolex with the money that can purchase a very complicated watch.
-JKS
