A range of classic and rare Rolex timepieces are set to attract collectors and watch enthusiasts alike as they go under the hammer at Birmingham-based auctioneers Fellows & Sons on Monday, July 5.
The upcoming Wrist & Pocket Watch auction promises some of the most sought after names in the world of watches, highlighting a particular period between the 1940's and 1970's.
 The rare Rolex Comex Chronometer, estimated at £20,000-30,000 |
It was during this time of innovation that the most desirable watches were created; often limited edition timepieces enhanced by complex movements and unusual styles.
The end of the Second World War heralded a new and daring world of exploration and scientific discovery led by an extraordinary group of men and women.
New professional activities such as deep sea diving, aviation and mountain climbing meant that the 20th century intrepid adventurer needed a watch to match - and Rolex became one of the leading manufacturers of premium watches.
These watches did much more than tell the time, making them the ultimate status symbol which collectors recognise today...
Among the highlights appearing at Fellows & Sons is a 1978 Rolex Explorer II, a rare Rolex Comex diver's watch and a Rolex Oyster Milgauss.
The 1973 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Explorer II superlative chronometer is set to be another big draw at the sale, with an estimate of between £8,000-12,000.
Rolex had originally designed the watch specifically for adventurers and cave explorers, introducing more complex distinctions such as a 24 hour fixed bezel.
 The 1973 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Explorer II |
This stainless steel 1655 model, with black matt dial and luminescent markers, is also one of the few Rolex watches which can also be used as a compass; which also makes it one of the first ultimate precision time pieces.
Other highlights will include a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Milgauss - introduced in 1954 as an antimagnetic watch specifically for those who worked in power plants - and the rare Rolex Comex (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertise) Diver Superlative Chronometer.
The latter carries an estimate of £20,000-30,000.
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