Bidspirit auction | Rolex Osyter Perpetual Precision 'Bubbleback'

Rolex Osyter Perpetual Precision 'Bubbleback' Ref 6098 The Everest Expedition Model - c. 1952BThis historically significant stainless steel gentleman's wristwatch is a rare Rolex Oyster Perpetual Precision, Reference 6098, affectionately known among collectors as the ”Pre-Explorer” or ”Ovettone” (big egg) due to its highly domed caseback housing the pioneering Calibre 775 automatic movement. Manufactured circa 1952, this watch is a prototype of the model supplied to members of the successful 1953 British Mount Everest expedition, including Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, a legacy which directly led to the creation of the iconic Explorer line. It features a beautifully aged silvered dial with applied dagger and Arabic numerals, a closed minute track, and a striking blued steel centre seconds hand, offering a potent blend of robust utility and mid-century elegance that is a genuine piece of horological history.Stainless SteelSize: 35mm x 44mm;Private London CollectorThis item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.