Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 1956

Description

Here we have a simply superb, fully restored 18ct Rolex Datejust Model 6605 from 1956. This is a very special watch with a number outstanding features. Firstly it has an immaculate 36mm case with the smooth bezel as opposed to the usual fluted bezel. Secondly the date function has the rare and sought after alternating red and black date wheel known as a ‘Roulette’ wheel. Next it has a simply wonderful ‘heart’s and arrow-heads’ silver white dial which has been beautifully restored. Lastly the Chronometer grade Cal.1066 movement is in spectacular condition and carries the rarer ‘butterfly’ rotor so called due to it’s light weight and similarity to a butterfly wing.

The Dial  

This is one the most beautiful Rolex Dials of the 1950s. Guilt applied ‘Hearts and Arrowheads’ hours markers with outer minutes and half minutes track with Dauphine hands and needle seconds hand.  The dial also carries a date function with the rare and sought after, alternating red and black date wheel known as a ‘Roulette’ wheel’ date. 

This is the original Rolex dial which has been restored to the highest standards by one of the best dial restorers in the UK

The Case

The original 18ct yellow gold case measures 36mm not including the Rolex Oyster screw down crown. The case has been carefully restored with no signs of over-polishing. It is in immaculate condition with no scratches, dings or similar marks visible to the naked eye. The watch has the sought after and rare plain bezel as rather than the usual standard fluted bezel.  The screw down case back is highly polished, full thickness and has never been inscribed.  The inside of the case back carries the Rolex model number 6605 and 18ct Geneva Swiss hallmarks and is signed Rolex Montres SA Geneva Switzerland.

The Movement

The original high grade “Officially Certified Superlative Chronometer” 25 Jewels, 1066 calibre ‘butterfly’ movement is very highly regarded for being particularly accurate and reliable and strong. Here it is in sparkling condition and it is working perfectly following a thorough overhaul and service by our vintage Rolex specialist watchmaker. This movement is known as a ‘butterfly’ movement because the lightened rotor resembles a butterfly wing. It is signed MONTRES ROLEX SA GENEVA and TWENTY FIVE JEWELS, ADJUSTED FIVE POSITIONS. The movement carries the movement reference number N866278. and the Calibre number 1066. The movement has been very carefully calibrated and it is running strongly and accurately within +6 seconds/day!  This is no exageration and is outstanding for a watch movement of this age. This watch movement is now ready for many more years faithful service and it is perfected suited for every day use. The watch is offered with twelve months warranty on the movement*. *The 12 months warranty is only applicable if the list price is paid.

Strap and Buckle

A new very high quality brown ‘croc’ leather strap is fitted along with a matching gold plated Rolex buckle. Note if a different colour or style of strap is preferred, please let us know and we will do our best to provide one free of charge.

The Box and Papers

Original paperwork for a watch of this age is very rare and although there is none with this watch, the numbers and markings on the watch are all correct indicating the age of the watch to be 1956. A detailed written receipt, with a 12 months warranty* and a separate insurance valuation for the replacement value will be provided at the time of sale. The Rolex presentation box shown in the photographs is included in the sale. *Note this watch is offered with 12 months warranty if the listing price is paid.

In Conclusion

This is a beautiful example of an iconic vintage watch from horology’s most famous name. And if treated with care it will become an excellent investment as well as something for you to treasure and enjoy. And even though vintage Rolex prices have risen considerably in recent years, we still feel good examples such as this are undervalued. As the world market for vintage Rolex continues to expand, this means prices are likely to climb ever higher.

We are happy to accept Paypal as this is the quickest method of payment. However if you would like to pay by UK cheque or by bank transfer we will be pleased to assist you with this and pass on a 3% saving to you.

If you have any questions please call 020 7727 7095 or 07515 949 250 or +44 7515949250 if calling from overseas.

We are able to accept part exchanges.

And finally please take a look at our other Vintage Gold Watches!

Thank you.