Rolex Oyster Perpetual 18K, Linen Dial, Thunderbird Bezel 1971

Description

Here we have a beautiful, fully restored Rolex Oyster Perpetual in solid 18K yellow gold from 1971. Outstanding features are the ‘Linen’ dial, the Thunderbird bezel – and the condition! please see below. The watch is fitted with the hugely successful Cal.1570 automatic, Certified Superlative Chronometer, (highly accurate and highly reliable) movement. This is a very lightly used, ‘modern’ 1971 vintage watch has been very well cared for. It has been sympathetically, fully restored using only original Rolex parts as necessary.

The Dial

This Rolex has a rare original Rolex ‘Linen’ dial with a Guilloché (engraved) (linen effect) applied to the surface of the dial. This gives the dial extra depth and texture which adds to the attractiveness and exclusivity of the watch. It is difficult to properly reproduce this in these photographs but suffice to say it looks significantly more attractive in real life! The dial carries the original ‘Stick Hands’ with needle centre seconds hand and guilt baton hour markers and an outer minutes/seconds track. This is the original dial fitted to this watch which has been expertly restored to the very highest standards.

The Case

The original Swiss hallmarked 18K solid yellow gold case, measures a large 35mm in diameter not including the original Rolex Oyster crown. It is completely blemish free with no marks, dings or scratches visible to the naked eye! The case features the original rare and sought after Thunderbird bezel, in very close to perfect condition! This is very rare on an 18ct watch, as the distinctive fine profile is usually worn down to some extent with use. The original Thunderbird bezel on this watch is incredibly sharp and unworn indicating this watch has been very lightly and carefully used, and spent much more safely stored time than on the owner’s wrist!

The case-back is highly polished and full thickness indicating it has never been inscribed. In fact the whole of the case is in immaculate condition having simply been cleaned and very lightly polished.

Inside the case-back are two Swiss 18ct hallmarks and 0.750 18K. Also GENEVA SWITZERLAND ROLEX PATENTED and with the case model 1003. This case has all new rubber seals in place including the big o ring on the case-back which easily goes missing and often not replaced. Please note: even though water-tight when new, this has not been tested and is not guaranteed, as all vintage watches should be kept clean and dry at all times!

The Movement

This watch has the original high grade “Officially Certified Superlative Chronometer” 26 Jewels, Calibre.1570 movement which was very successful and is highly regarded for being particularly accurate and reliable and strong! The original movement here is working perfectly following a thorough inspection and service by our watchmaker. It is signed ROLEX PERPETUAL CHRONOMETER and SWISS MADE. The movement carries the correct numbers: 1570, 255659. The movement has been calibrated and timed and tested prior to writing this listing and it is running strongly and accurately at +12 seconds per day and it is now ready for many more years of reliable service. Please note the watch movement will be given a final check and calibration just before delivery. The watch is offered with twelve months warranty on the movement*.

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

The Strap – The Choice Is Yours!

Distressed Peacock Optional!! – The strap fitted and seen here is very ‘in’ amongst our younger clients! But of course subject to individual taste. And this is why we will do our very best to satisfy yours! Any of the other straps you see on our website are usually easily provided. Other choices, crocodile leather, lizard skin and peacock in a selection of colours typically tan, conker, dark chocolate brown and black. For other colours and skins / leathers, please check with us at the time of sale. We will do our best to provide your choice at no extra charge. While bespoke options are available, (please enquire), dark chocolate brown crocodile, remains our most popular, conservative choice.

Box and Papers

Although there are no original papers with this watch, all the numbers and markings on the watch are all correct, dating the watch to 1971. And so a detailed written description and receipt, with a 12 months warranty* and a separate insurance valuation (for the replacement value in the event of loss) will be provided at the time of sale. We also provide a lifetime authenticity guarantee. (please see FAQs).

The Rolex presentation box shown in the photographs is included in the sale.

*Note 12 months warranty is only applicable if the listed price is paid.

In Conclusion

This is a superb example the iconic gent’s early 1970’s vintage 18ct gold Rolex in immaculate condition. It is sufficiently different from the norm to be distinctive, still classic, and completely practical and ready to wear as an everyday watch. And if the watch is treated with care, it will make an excellent investment and heirloom piece, particularly if it remains in top condition.

Even though vintage Rolex prices have risen recently, we still feel good examples like this are undervalued and still have a long way to go. As each year goes by the global market for vintage gold Rolex watches is expanding exponentially with subsequent prices climbing rapidly. And so in summary this is a highly collectable vintage gold watch from horology’s most famous name, which will provide an excellent reliability, a sound financial investment as well as something to treasure and enjoy!

We will be happy to accept Paypal as this is the quickest and simplest method of payment. However if you would like to pay by UK cheque or by bank transfer we will be very 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 of similar watches.

Please take a look at our other Vintage Gold Watches!

And thank you very much, for reading this far!