Rolex Oyster Perpetual Thunderbird Bubble Back 10K c1952

Description

This model, 6085 made in circa 1952, was built only for only 2-3yrs and these watches are highly collected and desired. The 6085 was one of the relatively few Rolex models to feature the short-lived Super Oyster crown which was produced for only three years. The Super-Oyster winding crown was developed by Rolex to create a waterproof winding crown which did not need to be screwed down. While the system itself worked well, in time and if not properly serviced, the rubber seal perished and weakened the seal, and so this crown type was phased out after a few years of production. Housed in Rolex water-tight Oyster cases these were some of the first wristwatches offering its owner complete protection against water, dust and perspiration.

Also with the rare original 10ct gold Thunderbird bezel, this Rolex Oyster Perpetual also has highly collectable and desirable Bubble Back Case!……

The Case

The fully Swiss hallmarked 10K yellow gold case has been professionally cleaned and lightly polished. The original 10K yellow gold ‘Thunderbird’ bezel is in excellent condition with only a two small marks and some wear which might be expected of a watch from 1952. The Bubble Back is beautifully clean and undamaged with no engraving marks. Inside the case back there are two Swiss 10K hallmarks along with 0417-10K ROLEX PATENTED 6085. The case size is a large 34mm diameter not including the original Rolex Super Oyster Crown (see ref above). The case serial number appears to be 775XXX

The Dial, Hands and Lens

The Sunburst Gold dial is the original dial and is unrestored and in superb condition. It is hard to capture on camera but it reflect the light beautifully. The original gold Dauphin hands and wedge markers are particularly attractive as is the original, aged seconds hand. Please note the hour markers and hands were originally luminous. This breaks down a little over the years, particularly where it was applied more heavily on the hour markers. This is quite normal and shows the dial to be original.

The dial carries the Rolex Crown and is signed Rolex Oyster Perpetual and Officially Certified Chronometer and Swiss. The Lens is clear with no marks or damage.

The Movement

This is the high grade “Officially Certified Chronometer” 19 Jewels, 645 calibre movement which is known for being particularly accurate, reliable and strong. It is in good condition and is working perfectly following a thorough overhaul and service by our Master Watchmaker. It is marked ROLEX PERPETUAL and SWISS MADE. The movement has been time checked and timed and is running strongly and accurately and is now ready for many more years of reliable service. The movement carries twelve months warranty* Please note the ‘2 Rubies’ marked on the rotor applies to the rotor only.

*12 months warranty only applicable if the Buy It Now price is paid.

The Strap and Buckle

The strap fitted is a new high quality black croc print leather strap. The buckle is a matching aftermarket Rolex yellow gold plated. Note if a different colour or different style strap is prefered please let us know and we will do our best to provide one free of charge.

The Box and Papers

Although there are no original papers with this watch, the numbers and markings on the case back are all correct dating the watch to c1952. A detailed written receipt, with a separate insurance valuation for the replacement value will be provided at the time of sale. The presentation box shown in the accompanying photographs is offered with the sale.

What’s Included…

The ‘Buy It Now’ price includes the watch and strap and presentation box shown in the photographs. Note, if an original vintage Rolex presentation box is preferred we hold a small selection and we can offer you a matching box at the cost price to us, which averages around £100.00  The ‘B.I.N.’ price also includes 12 months written warranty on the movement. This is detailed on our written receipt. The watch is supplied on 14 days approval i.e. sale or return. This is also detailed on our written receipt. We will also provide you an insurance valuation in case of loss and this will be for the replacement value which will be approx 35% higher than the purchase price. Delivery within the UK is also included for free. International delivery is included by DHL or Fedex for £45.00

If the watch is being sent or taken abroad and the warranty isn’t required, we will be happy to reduce the price a little. In Summary – In this exceedingly condition, serviced and ready to wear, this vintage Rolex is rare indeed and great value at this price.

At the price we consider this watch to be exceedingly good value considering new equivalent gold Rolex dress watch would retail at around £15,000 today. Further, a 1960s 10K gold Rolex in this condition, would be on sale for £5,000 to £7,500 in a Bond Street store or in the Burlington Arcade in Central London.

From an investment point of view, there is no question which is the better buy.

This 1952 Rolex would also make a wonderful special anniversary or birthday gift, and an excellent investment or heirloom piece.

Please note it is difficult to capture the full beauty of a vintage watch even in a good series of photographs. Needless to say, it is a much more rewarding experience to have and hold the watch and of course, to wear it with pride.

*Only included if ‘Buy It Now’ price is paid.

So this is a highly desirable vintage watch from horology’s most famous name and will prove an excellent investment as well as something to treasure and enjoy!

And even though prices continue to climb, we still feel that vintage gold Rolex watches from this period are undervalued. And as each year goes by the world market for vintage gold Rolex is growing exponentially. And so this means prices are highly likely to remain on their steep climb trajectory.

We are happy to accept Paypal as this is the quickest method of payment. And we also welcome payment by bank transfer or cheque.

For more information please call or text Alan on 07515949250 or +44 7515949250 if calling from overseas.

Delivery is free within the UK and we charge only £45 for world-wide delivery by DHL or Fedex.

We are also able to take part exchange watches.

And lastly please take a look at our many other fine Vintage Gold Watches!