Description
A most elegant, fully restored 9ct Rolex Precision dress watch from 1954 with classic ‘1 – 12’ numerals on an ivory-white dial. The watch carries its original Rolex Calibre 710, 15 Jewel movement which is very reliable and accurate. This watch is in tip-top condition having recently completed a full restoration by our team.
Please note – although this size and style of this watch, at 30mm diameter, was a considered typical sized gentleman’s watch in the 1950s, it is more suited as a ladies watch today, given the current fashion for oversized watches.
The Dial
The wonderful, original classic Rolex dial with raised gold ‘1 – 12’ numerals is one of our most popular and sought after Rolex Precision dial designs. The original period ‘Leaf’ hands and blued steel centre seconds hand, complete the unmistakable period look and charm of this watch. The dial has been faithfully and sympathetically restored in the original ivory-white, which slightly changes colour depending on the ambient light, as we have tried to demonstrate in the photographs. The dial is very clear and easy to read in low light.
The dial is signed ‘ROLEX’ and ‘Shock Resisting’. During the early 1950s, significant advances were made through the introduction of shockproof movements and so this was promoted by Rolex and other brands, hence the script. The dial is also signed ‘Swiss Made’ at the bottom.
This is the original dial which has been sympathetically restored to the very highest standards by our dial restorers who are considered to be the best in the UK. This is, therefore, as fine a vintage dial restoration as you are likely to see.
The Case
The professionally and lightly polished solid 9ct yellow gold case is in excellent condition having been very well cared for and shows very little signs of wear, visible to the naked eye. The case measures just over 30mm in diameter, excluding the correct Rolex crown. As mentioned above, this makes the watch better suited for a lady given the modern trend for outsized watches.
The press-fit case-back clicks into place very satisfyingly and has never been inscribed. The case was made in England by Dennison for Rolex and the inside of the case-back is signed ‘Dennison’ and ‘Made in England’ with the reference number 12325 and the Dennison serial number 542062 . The watch also carries the correct Birmingham U.K. 9ct gold hallmarks, dating this watch to 1954.
The Movement
The high-grade Cal.710 manual wind movement is incredibly clean and also in incredibly good condition. It has just been overhauled and serviced by our expert watchmaker and is running perfectly. These Rolex Cal. 710 movements are highly regarded for their accuracy and reliability and this movement has been calibrated to run arrow straight within +9 seconds per day! This is no exaggeration – we have checked the test results on our electronic watch time grapher. This movement also has a really excellent 45-hour power reserve when fully wound.
The movement is signed ‘Rolex’, ‘Swiss Made’ and ’15 Rubis’ and marked with the Calibre 710. In addition, it carries the reference number 062. This particular movement is in superb condition and with regular servicing, say every 2-3 years, we would fully expect this watch to run quite happily for many more decades to come.
Strap and Buckle
A high-quality, new brown Alligator strap is fitted with a gold-plated Rolex buckle.
Box and Papers
Although there is no original paperwork with this watch, the reference numbers, markings, signatures and hallmarks are all correct, dating the watch to 1954.
In Conclusion
We love to find and make available vintage gold Rolex watches of this quality and condition! This is a superb, highly collectable and usable vintage watch from horology’s most famous name, which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as something to treasure and enjoy! It will make an excellent evening wear dress watch as well as a practical, highly accurate and reliable time-piece to use on an everyday basis.