Produced from 1955 to 1959 as the third dedicated Explorer reference, the ref. 6610 is both historically important and harder to find than its successor, the ref. 1016. Yet, 6610s are somewhat forgotten about. The simple fact that these 36mm Explorers are not 1016s holds them back. When a reference number becomes as iconic as 1016 or 5513, similar or almost identical UK Swiss made replica watches like the 6610 or 5512 become somewhat less desirable because they are not 1016s or 5513s. That’s a bit wordy but I trust that my point comes across.

As an owner of a gilt-dialed 1016, I cannot hide my fandom for Explorers. With that, I am a huge fan and champion of the 6610 – frankly, I think the reference is massively undervalued. When a 6610 online copy watches are in solid condition, like this one is, it is magical. There is an undeniable charm in the early details like the chapter ring, “OCC” text at six o’clock, and white seconds hand. This example is even further interesting as it has the larger, lollipop seconds hand – while a slight difference, this is a clear tip that you looking at a 6610 and not a 1016.

Up for sale at a small auction house in the UK, this early Explorer comes with some solid military provenance as well. We love UK cheap super clone watches with stories here at Hodinkee. According to the catalog note, this 6610 was owned by Warrant Officer Navigator First Class Leonard Hall of the Royal Air Force. During his time with the RAF, stationed in the Middle East, Leonard Hall flew transport planes like the Vickers Valetta, Hastings, and Dakota. The best replica Rolex for sale here was a gift from the Sheikh of Oman – a thanks for being a part of his transport crew. Included with the watch are Mr. Hall’s flying log books, photos, a letter from his son, the consignor to this auction, and more provenance items backing up the story. Having an Explorer is cool, having an Explorer originally owned and worn by someone who used the watch to do just that, explore, is even cooler.

This historically important high quality fake Rolex Explorer watches are lot 141 of Hansons Hertfordshire’s Hanson Ross November Antiques, Collectables, Jewellery, Wine & Spirits auction on Friday, November 8, at 5 AM EST.