Apr 14, 2026
Description
Vintage. No papers & an old Rolex box set is given.
This is a very rare Explorer One from the Ref.6610 series prior to the Ref.1016.
Introduced in 1956 with the new movement Cal.1030 which made this “new” Explorer slimmer over the earlier Bubble-back Ref.6350. This model measures 36mm with 20mm lugs and production ended in 1962. Our watch here is an early piece with the inside of the back cover stamped “I 57” which means this was made on the first quarter of 1957.
On the back cover, there is an engraving “CDR L.H. TURPIN U.S. NAVY” that can be seen on the images here. CDR stands for commander. A research shows that there was indeed such a military officer from declassified USN documents. In 1961, LH Turpin was listed a lieutenant and by 1964 he was promoted to LCDR (Lieutenant commander) and he contributed an article regarding fire fighting on nuclear weapons aboard a ship fire available here on page 28 of the Jan 1964 ALL HANDS, The bureau of US Naval personnel career publication.
The black lacquered dial with gold gilt markings has a T logo which is associated with military use and the aged lume are applied over stamped hour indexes on the dial which is period correct but we suspect that this dial is a re-conditioned item and the price reflects it otherwise such an unusual military dial with military association will easily command over US$50K and more so our price is a bargain & reflects this. That said, the quality of the print is superb & you may just hit a jack pot.
This watch is fitted with a correct style, though later steel Oyster riveted bracelet bearing 80/7206 with 12 links, folding buckle with scallop crown and date stamped 1 67. It is in very good condition.
A new acrylic crystal has been replaced & sealed. The watch head has been left in original, used condition and never polished by us so it shows decades of user marks that add a nice flavour to it. The bracelet received a light brushing to remove the surface scratches & some deeper marks are visible.
Movement was serviced in 2019 and works perfectly now but watch is certainly not water resistant. Again, this is sold as-is where is and not as a rare military Explorer but one with USN officer’s ownership.
No GST & further 3% discount for cash payment.
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