Description

Launched in 1945, the Rolex Datejust broke new ground by being the world’s first automatic with a date function, in a wristwatch. The fact that this watch was also waterproof and accurate and reliable enough to be Chronometer rated, was nothing short of sensational in 1945!

The Datejust was also one of the first popular watches to possess a central seconds hand, moving away from the more usual subsidiary seconds (small seconds dial) of the time. It was launched in the very large size for the time, of 36mm in diameter, excluding the Rolex screw-down crown. This classic design soon became an icon of style and quality, remaining in continuous production and continuous development, but changing little in design in over 70 years!

The Rolex Day-Date joined the Datejust in 1956 and both have remained Rolex’s range-topping gentlemen’s dress watches ever since. However, early Rolex Datejusts are rarer and more sought after and therefore command higher prices than the Day-Date. Incidentally, the ‘just’ in Datejust, stands for “just in time”, referring to the way the movement advances the date, exactly at midnight without any delay.

The watch seen here is a fully restored example of an early Rolex Datejust in 18ct solid gold from within the first 7 years of production. This is Rolex model reference 6105, which has the Rolex Chronometer grade Cal.A296, 18 jewel movement. It was not until around 1953 that Rolex began to promote the Datejust line by using the name ‘Datejust’ on the dial.

This watch has just completed a full restoration by our team and looks simply sensational. Early Rolex Datejust watches of this quality and condition are very rare and hard to find, and this is one of the finest early examples we have seen.

The Dial

1950s vintage Rolex dials are, we feel, the most wonderful examples of Rolex style, simplicity and elegance. This particular dial with Dagger and Spearhead hour indices is difficult to find and quite sought after. Here in ivory-cream, it contrasts beautifully with the yellow gold case. It is full of character and 1950s Rolex charm and the original Lance hands and yellow lance centre seconds hand complete the dial perfectly. This watch also carries a roulette date wheel, which alternates red and black, each time the date is changed.

The lens has been replaced with a new original Rolex part and so it is fresh and scratch-free.

This dial is in stunning condition due to the superb work of our dial restorers. This is the original dial which has been expertly restored to the very highest standards by our dial restorers who are considered to be the best in the UK.

The Case

This is the classic Rolex Oyster Perpetual waterproof case in 18ct yellow gold,  this case measures 36mm in diameter excluding the original Rolex Oyster screw-down crown. The case carries the classic fluted bezel, which along with the case and case-back, is in immaculate condition and still very sharp with well defined edges and surfaces.

The case has been professionally cleaned and lightly polished and is looking superb. Inside the case-back all is correct and as expected, signed with the beautifully ornate early Rolex branding, along with ‘ROLEX PATENTED’, ‘6105’, two Swiss 18ct hallmarks.

On the outside of the case between the lugs at 6 we find the case serial number 820203 which dates this watch to 1952.

Please note – as part of the restoration we have replaced all the rubber seals on the case-back and the winding crown and stem tube. However, although the watch was specified as waterproof when new, this has not been tested and it is not guaranteed. As ever, our standard advice applies: Vintage watches should be kept clean and dry at all times.

The Watch Movement

The original high grade, Rolex Calibre A296, 18 Jewel Chronometer automatic movement is in superb condition. The watch is running perfectly following a complete overhaul and service by our vintage Rolex specialist watchmaker. This involves completely dismantling the movement to all its component parts, close examination under high magnification, then using only genuine Rolex replacement parts where required, careful reassembly and lubrication using Rolex specified lubricants.

This particular movement is sparkling clean and winds, sets and runs perfectly, just as it should. When finally tested following its overhaul, this watch was found to be keeping superb time to within +13 seconds per day! This is outstanding for any watch of this age.

The Strap and Buckle

The watch is fitted with a new high-quality Hirsh Alligator strap and Rolex gold plated buckle.

The Box and Papers

Although there are no original papers with the watch, the numbers and markings are all correct, dating this watch to 1952.

Matching original vintage inner and outer Rolex presentation boxes are included in the sale.

In Conclusion

This is a truly first class example of an early vintage Rolex Datejust which is ready to wear and completely practical for everyday use. If treated with care, this watch will make an excellent investment or heirloom piece. Even though vintage gold Rolex prices have risen markedly recently, we still feel good examples such as this are still undervalued and as each year goes by and the world market for vintage gold Rolex watches continues to expand, prices will continue to climb ever higher.

This is a highly collectable vintage gold watch from horology’s most famous name which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as be something to treasure and enjoy!