Rolex. A fine, very rare and large 18K gold automatic bubble back wristwatch with sweep centre seconds, honeycomb dial, star numerals and bracelet

Launched in the early 1950s, reference 6098 is often referred to as the large bubble back without date. Being the largest, hence most practical and readable of all models in production at the time, it is well understandable that Rolex chose this reference for further development of a robust watch. It is therefore by no surprise that Rolex lent a group of some 30 watches of reference 6098 to several Everest expeditions, all equipped with high-contrast luminous black dials.

Clearly designed as a robust sports' watch meant to withstand even the most difficult conditions, the so-called "Pre-Explorer" was predominantly available in stainless steel, rendering the few examples in gold appearing in public exceedingly rare. Within the family of this scarce species, examples fitted the highly appealing honeycomb dial furthermore highlighted with the sought after star-shaped numerals, more commonly associated with the celebrated reference 6062, occupy a very special position.

Aficionados of the rare and unusual will doubtlessly enthusiastically great the arrival of the present reference 6098 in public, uniting the three rarest features of the model with a highly appealing, original overall condition.