From the golden age of exploration comes this early 1950s gem: the Rolex 6098. Known among aficionados as the “pre-Explorer,” this large-cased Oyster Perpetual paved the way for Rolex’s professional tool watches. But this one? She’s got something extra.

This particular example features a rare and desirable “Joyeria Riviera” signed dial – a nod to the Latin American retailers who left their mark (quite literally) on Rolex’s rich global history. “Joyeria” is Spanish for jewelry store, and in the 1950s it wasn’t uncommon for prestigious Rolex dealers in South America to co-sign their dials, adding an extra layer of provenance and collectability.

The creamy dial has aged with grace, showing subtle discolouration around the hour markers. Not distracting, but full of character and likely the result of radium lume interacting with decades of UV, oxygen, and moisture. It’s exactly this kind of honest patina that makes each vintage piece unique. No two dials age the same, and that’s the beauty of it.

The case is in outstanding and likely unpolished condition, retaining sharp edges and that full-bodied 36mm presence. Even better, it features the original 1950s “Super Oyster” crown — a short-lived innovation from Rolex’s transitional period — and comes on a period-correct straight end-link bracelet by Gay Frères, the undisputed masters of watch bracelets.

From an era when Rolex still made watches for explorers. Not for champagne brunches.