Ladies Rolex Cocktail Watch 9ct Pink Gold Cal.9¾ 1914

Rolex

It is not quite so well known that Rolex was actually founded in the UK in London in 1905 and it was not until 1919 that the company transferred its base of operations to Geneva, Switzerland. It is also a misconception that the world of luxury watches is a gentlemans one, as the first recorded wristwatch was actually designed for a lady. In June 1810, Abraham-Louis Breguet made a watch for Caroline Murat, Queen of Naples. For many decades, women have proudly worn Rolex watches and have been integral to the brand’s success.

Description

Here we have a wonderful example of a fully restored Rolex ladies evening wear dress watch in 9ct rose gold from 1914. The watch is fully signed on the case, movement, dial and bracelet and the original 9ct signed bracelet has been re-sprung and is suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes.

It is not so well known that Rolex was actually founded in the UK in London in 1905 and it was not until 1919 that the company transferred its base of operations to Geneva, Switzerland. The company’s founders Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis simply used their initials W&D until around 1910, when they began to use the name Rolex. This particular watch is one of the rare examples which carries both W&D and Rolex trademarks.

The Case

The original solid 9ct rose gold case measures 28mm in diameter, excluding the correct Rolex crown. Opening the hinged case-back reveals it is double signed with both Rolex and W&D. Also revealed are the London UK Hallmarks which date the watch to 1914 and the serial number 588610. The case is in superb condition, indicating the watch has seen only light careful use. Only under very close examination can some small marks be found, commensurate with the age of this piece.

The Dial

The white dial is typical of this period with Breguet style numerals and the ‘red 12’ which was almost always used on these very early watches. The dial is complete with its original blued steel ‘Cathedral’ style hands.

This example also carries the stud seconds register around the outer edge of the dial and is simply signed ‘Rolex’ and with Swiss Made at the very bottom.

This is, all in all, a very clear and legible dial for such a small watch.

This is the original dial which has been restored to the highest standards by our dial restorers, considered to be the best in the UK.

The Movement

The original hand-wound movement is signed Rolex and 15 Jewels and has been fully overhauled and serviced by our vintage Rolex specialist watchmaker who reports it to be in excellent condition so we are happy to offer this watch with our 12 months’ warranty*. Although Rolex watches of this period have movements which are relatively accurate and reliable, these watches need to be treated with extra care, so while perfect for special occasions, we do not recommend this watch for everyday use.

The Bracelet

The watch is fitted with its original 9ct Rose Gold W&D signed expandable bracelet. This bracelet has been fully dismantled and completely re-sprung. Please note – this bracelet will expand to make it a perfect fit for a wrist size of between 16cm – 17cm,  or  6.25″ inches to 6.75″ inches i.e. a small to medium size ladies wrist.

The Box and Papers

Although there is no original paperwork with this watch, the reference numbers, markings, signatures and hallmarks are all correct and date the watch to 1914.

Detailed particulars will be included with our purchase receipt for your interest and security. A separate insurance valuation for the replacement value of this watch will be provided at the time of sale along with our unique ‘Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee’ which states: “If this watch proves to be anything less than 100% genuine, authentic and original, a full refund will be given at any time”.

This watch comes complete with the green Rolex watch purse, as shown.

Payment and Delivery

If you would like to pay by bank transfer, we will be pleased to assist you with this. Similarly, if you wish to pay by International SWIFT or Bank Wire Transfer we will provide you with our BIC / Swift number and our IBAN number.

Please check the import duties and any taxes your government may apply, these are different for each country and, unfortunately, out of our control.

We understand there may be some ‘loopholes’ that may help you avoid these charges; however, attempting to use these could impact our ongoing ability to serve our growing international customer base.

For those who happen to visit London on occasion, we are, of course, more than happy to store your watch until we can meet you in our offices in Kensington, London, and hand your watch directly to you there.

As with all our watches, this watch will be sold under our 14 days no-quibble sale or return policy.

In Conclusion

A rare, useable ladies evening wear dress watch from horology’s most famous name which will provide both an excellent financial investment as well as something of beauty to use and enjoy! It will make an excellent investment or family heirloom piece and even though vintage gold Rolex prices have continued to rise markedly in the past 2-3 years, we still feel fine examples such as this are still undervalued. As each year goes by and the world market for vintage gold Rolex watches continues to expand, prices are surely destined 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 UK bank transfer we will be pleased to assist you with this and pass on a 3% saving to you. Similarly, if you wish to pay by International SWIFT or Bank Wire Transfer we will provide you our BIC / Swift number and our IBAN number.

*Please note – our 12 months’ warranty is only included if the list price is paid.

If you have any questions please call on Landline 0207 727 7095 or Mobile 07515 949250 or if calling from overseas on Landline +44 207 727 7095 or Mobile +44 7515 949250

Please note, we also welcome part exchanges.

Please take a look at our other fine vintage gold watches.