Rolex Precision 18K 1957 Oversize

Description

Here we have a beautifully restored, 18ct vintage Rolex Precision ‘Oversize’ gentleman’s dress watch in immaculate condition from 1957. Rolex Precisions were produced in several sizes in the 1950s, starting at 30mm in diameter, not including the crown, although the majority were 32 and 33mm with some 34mm. Very rarely, Rolex produced 35mm models or even rarer 36mm such as the example we see here. These are highly sought after watches because the seemingly small difference in size does add significantly to the ‘presence’ and value of the watch. In addition, by far the majority of Rolex Precisions are found in 9ct gold in the UK or 10ct or 14ct in the U.S., unlike this watch which has an 18ct case, which again also significantly adds to its value.

The Dial

This is a simply beautiful classic 1950s Rolex dial. It carries applied gilt arrowhead hour indices and the Rolex signature crown at 12, with the matching original ‘Dauphine’ hands completing the charm of this dial. This is the original dial which has been sympathetically restored to the very highest standards by the best in the UK.

The Movement

This is the original high grade Rolex Calibre 1210, 17 Jewels Super Balance movement, which as can be seen in the photographs, is in sparkling condition. The movement has been completely disassembled, cleaned, inspected and rebuilt using original Rolex parts where required, by our vintage Rolex specialist watchmaker. When tested and calibrated, this watch was running to within +9 seconds per day, which is outstanding for a vintage watch of this age! The movement is all correctly signed ‘ROLEX PRECISION’, ‘SWISS MADE’, and ‘17 RUBIES’, with the Calibre number 1210 and the reference number N73461. These movements are strong, accurate and very reliable making the watch appropriate for regular everyday use. This particular movement is in top condition and with regular servicing, every 2 to 3 years we would fully expect this watch to run very happily for many more decades to come! We are pleased to offer a 12 month warranty on this watch movement* and servicing in the future.

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

The Case

The 18ct yellow gold case measures 36mm in diameter, not including the original crown making this one of the very rare, largest sized Rolex Precisions. The watch case is in immaculate condition with no scratches dings or other marks visible to the naked eye. No matter how closely you might wish to examine the case it shows no signs of anything other than very light and careful limited use. On the outside of the case-back can be found the early Rolex signature crown and inside the case-back the markings are all correct for the Rolex Swiss made case with the early Rolex signature crown and scroll. The case-back also carries the Rolex model reference 9004 and Geneva Swiss 18ct hallmarks. This watch case has been exceptionally well cared for and therefore has simply required a clean and gentle polish to bring it back to its current almost like new condition.

The Strap and Buckle

The strap fitted is a new well matched very high quality Black Crocodile strap with a Rolex gold plated buckle. If a different colour or style of strap is preferred, please let us know and we will do our best to oblige free of charge. We carry tan, conker, dark brown and black in stock in plain padded leather, crocodile skin or lizard skin. We can also obtain most types and colours at short notice.

The Box and Papers

Although there are no original papers with this watch, all the numbers and markings on the watch are correct, dating the watch to 1957.

Our detailed ‘Particulars’ document will be included in the sale, along with the our detailed receipt and our 12 months Warranty*. A separate insurance valuation for the replacement value of this watch will also 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 totally authentic, or not as described, Vintage Gold Watches of London will offer you a full refund at any time”.

The presentation box shown in the photographs will be included with this watch. If this is not required, we will be able to reduce the price of the watch by a few £s. Please enquire.

In Conclusion

This is a superb, highly collectable and usable vintage watch from horology’s most famous name, which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as something to treasure and enjoy! It will make an excellent evening wear dress watch as well as a practical, highly accurate and reliable time-piece to use on an everyday basis, but however you may wish to view this watch, as every year goes by the world market for vintage gold watches is growing ever larger and the limited supply, allied to high demand, means prices will inevitably climb ever higher!

A word on our prices – We always try our hardest to acquire the very highest quality watches we can find, before then restoring them to the highest possible standards. We then offer these at the fairest prices we can, taking into account our pre and post sales care and service. This approach means we will never be the cheapest, but nor will we be the most expensive. Indeed there are some well known stores in West London which are highly successful charging between two to three times the price you see here. We therefore consider our prices to be fair, given the quality of watches we have to offer.

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.

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 welcome part exchanges.

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

Thank you.