Rolex Explorer 6610 Gilt Dial Acquisition

hs111 · 2014-10-04T14:51:34Z

Discover the Rolex Explorer 6610, a vintage 'gilt' dial reference from 1956. Hs111 shares his acquisition journey and the appeal of its understated character.

hs111

WPS member · Rolex forum

25 replies5653 views2 photos

Hs111 shares his long-awaited acquisition of a Rolex Explorer 6610, marking his entry into vintage Rolex collecting after years of owning modern references. His post highlights the appeal of "under the radar" vintage pieces, emphasizing their character and understated elegance over modern "bling." This article explores the journey of acquiring a specific vintage reference and the community's appreciation for its unique attributes.

25 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Well.. Over the years I have been a Rolex wearer of several modern ones
(Datejust, Milgauss, recently 116700 & 116710/ Bruiser ).
On several occasions with friends, I have been shown & explained various Vintages.

- Thus, l also have been happy to do my first steps into the Rolex Vintage terroir,
by getting some nice Subs and the one or another GMT.

I always was fond of Rolex "under the radar " pieces; Vintages have less Bling.
Lots of character fulfill that quest , and offer a vast field for interests.

Somehow funny, there had been one model, that has remained elusive to me, until now:
It was the Explorer I, sober but clean, pure but balanced, and with a nice pedigree.

It has been only very recently , that I had a chance to take this further plunge - at least for
humble me - by having found this one of my long standing wishes
of classical Vintage targets.

For quite some time, I had been looking for a nice Vintage Explorer I, gilt preferred.
Had seen a number, tried several, missed some, as it often goes.

Thanks to the encouragement and kind advice from several friends
( you know, who you are ! ) I had learned to focus my search a bit.
- Finally, a nice note from one of the friends, an Explorer in good condition,
had been located.

The dealer - being a friend to one of my friends, was the kind source, as he
parted from one, which had been in his personal collection..

- Enough rambling, thx for bearing with me :

Therefore, I just thought to share two quick weekend-pics from this tic-tac,
as the parcel has arrived just few days ago.

- Thus, for today I would just like to humbly introduce my new arrival :
Indeed love the proportions, the low key appearance, and a really splendid
condition with a superbly patinated dial.

Welcome, my new Explorer I, (gilt, CR, from 1956):

Explorer I , 6610 - 1956

Really nice face.. Pleasure to look at

Hope you liked my new arrival,
I do..

Best, hs

This message has been edited by Baron on 2014-10-05 04:17:59 This message has been edited by Baron on 2014-10-05 04:18:36

About the Rolex Explorer Ref. 6610

The Rolex Explorer reference 6610 is a specific iteration within the Explorer model line. This reference is identified by its unique numbering, distinguishing it from other Explorer models.

The reference 6610 features a case, and its age is noted as approximately 70 years old. No further details regarding case material, crystal, or movement architecture are provided.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in early examples of the Rolex Explorer. Its age positions it as an older variant within the broader Explorer collection.

Specifications

Caliber: 1030

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 36mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 50m

Crystal: Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

Vintage watches, particularly the Explorer I, offer a perfect size and a fine aesthetic that appeals to collectors, often leading to a preference over modern pieces.
The allure of vintage Rolex, especially models like the 6610 with its gilt dial and riveted bracelet, is strong, and once collectors delve into this domain, they often find it hard to return to modern watches.
The Explorer 6610 is praised for its special vintage look, including the case, gilt markings, luminous markers, and the charm added by a riveted bracelet.
The 6610 is a great reference, particularly noted for its wonderfully full 'gilt' hands, which are not always seen in such condition today.
Collecting vintage watches can be highly addictive, with new acquisitions often leading quickly to the desire for more, akin to a strong habit.

The Discussion

amanico

Oct 4, 2014

Wowwow, my friend. Now you are talking.

A superb 6610. Great catch, for sure! Enjoy the plunge! Best, and huge congratulations, H. Nicolas

hs111

Oct 4, 2014

Thank you kindly, dear friend !.. Slowly now, we might have enough ..

.. for a nice little Vintage Rolex Group picture ( maybe with Baron ?) - 1645, now 6610.. Dr Mamadu's patient is on the go !.. LOLL ! Best & big thx again, hs

CaliforniaJed

Oct 4, 2014

Great catch, HS.

You're braver than I am -- I have yet to venture into vintage Rolex, but I sure like to watch! Best, CaliforniaJed

hs111

Oct 5, 2014

Hello, CalJ .. Thx for kind looking .. Yes, the Vintages have their own spell ! .. HAGWE !

gensiulia

Oct 5, 2014

congrats! handsome piece!!! [nt]

hs111

Oct 5, 2014