The Rolex references 6350 and 6352 feature both “Pre-Explorer” and “Explorer” dials, as Rolex used these models as experimental palettes for testing the new branding. “Explorer” dials first appeared in 1953 and are most commonly seen on the reference 6350. The reference 6352, on the other hand, is most often seen with a white honeycomb dial or a smooth black dial. Hardly ever seen is the present combination – the reference 6352 paired with a luminous black waffle “Explorer” dial.

The dial is exceptional, having been preserved in stunning condition, with the tessellated pattern remaining perfectly glossy. It is further preserved with its original luminous material and crowned by its original, rare, and early pencil-shaped hands. Phillips is excited to offer this specimen of the earliest days of Rolex sports watches, when output was not standardized and subject to changes based on market reception. Clearly, this combination proved to be a winner, as it went on to be adopted and standardized in the reference 1016 – the design codes of which live on to this day. With its extremely rare configuration and state of preservation, it is sure to impress even the most discerning of Rolex scholars and enthusiasts.