Rolex Explorer makes four times estimate

A Rolex Explorer has sold for an impressive hammer of £25,000, more than four times its pre-sale estimate in a Birmingham auction.

The gentleman’s stainless steel Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer bracelet watch had an estimate of £4,800 – £5,800, but fierce bidders in the room, on the internet and over telephones pushed it above the figure to reach the price of £31,900 (including fees).

Dating back to 1954, the Rolex Explorer is a rare, early example which has a functioning movement and is in a good condition. With a stainless steel case and an engraved case back, and reference 6150, the watch has a signed automatic calibre 17090.

Its black dial with baton hour markers complement the Rolex, with the Arabic numeral three, six and nine comprising the front of the watch. It is fitted to a signed stainless steel Oyster riveted bracelet with Oysterclasp.

Steven Yambo, Senior Watch Specialist at Fellows, said: “This Explorer is an incredibly early model with a lovely aged dial, so it isn’t a surprise that it sold for this amount. There was a lot of interest in the room and on the telephones which we were very happy with.”