Inspired by the first-ever successful summit of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and his Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, who wore a Rolex Oyster Perpetual, the Rolex Explorer has long been Rolex's ultimate adventure watch. Constructed entirely from Rolex's 904L steel, the Explorer's robust design ensures that it can always battle the elements. Featuring some of Rolex's most capable movements and a rich heritage to boot, the Explorer is another display of their timeless design as this icon of watchmaking has remained virtually untouched in its aesthetic since its inception. Identifiable by its signature 3-6-9 black dial, a flat stainless steel bezel, and entirely satin-brushed stainless steel case and bracelet, the Rolex Explorer has become renowned for its understated class, sporty elegance, and capable construction. Launched in 1958 as the non-chronometer certified Explorer variant, the ref. 5504 was powered by the automatic cal. 1530, a new movement that would go on to feature in other watches like the Submariner ref. 5508 and ref. 5510 - both icons in their own right. Boasting a black gilt "Super Precision" dial, which was only offered in 1958, this ref. 5504 is the real deal with its 1958-stamped caseback and 1958-dated serial number.

Watch is in excellent overall condition. Case shows light wear, with its previously polished case showing only minor surface marks. The original gilt chapter ring dial retains much of its original gloss and luster, with light spotting and wear visible along the edge. Luminous is aged to a warm yellow/brown tone, with matching hands. The minute hand shows light cracking of the luminous material. Watch comes on a swiss rivet 7206 band with 75 endpieces. It has 12 links total, and fits an approx 7" wrist. The bracelet dates to 1964 and shows light stretch.

A champion amongst the Explorer collection, the ref. 5504 is a rare beast indeed, and this 1958-specific configuration, with its stunning gilt chapter ring, is a must-have for any serious Rolex collector.