1956 Explorer 6610 - Antarctica

[AlexRiot]

Hello ladies and gents,

I am an aspiring vintage watch collector. I thought I should write to you all and share my recent experience acquiring a 6610 Explorer dated 1956 and would really appreciate your feedback as experienced collectors.

The watch itself was originally worn by a Gentlemen called Ivor Beney, a member of the Royal Society who was involved in an expedition to Antarctica. I was provided with documents and photos supporting this fact and also the back of the case is stamped with Ivor Beney, IGYE, Antarctica, 1956-1959.

I purchased this watch from a reputable dealer in London who’s been in the business for a long time. Prior to purchase the dealer assured me that the piece is “all original” and provided me with a signed in house Certificate guaranteeing the originality of the watch. However, after purchase, reading through the supporting documentation about Ivor Beney and his Expedition to Antarctica I came across an email back in 1999 about the specification from the X owner to the current dealer. The prior owner states that this 6610 has a 1016 dial! With immediate concern I did some research.

Some investigation lead me to believe this is not a standard 1016 dial. The dial does look like a 1016 however instead of the usual “SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED” it shows “OFFICIALY CERTIFIED CHRONOMETER” like you would see on a 6610.

Also, instead of SWISS T25 this dial shows a T SWISS T under the 6 hour.

The second hand also looks to be more like a 1016 and I doubt the originality.

I’ve spent just over £8500 for what I’ve been told is an original 6610. Now, I've completely lost confidence about the authenticity of the watch.

Do you still think this is a piece worth keeping and if so would you consider it as a good investment?

I've attached

Any feedback/wisdom is much appreciated at this point. Thanks in advance!