Ladies Rolex 9ct Pink Gold, 1916, Porcelain Dial

Description

Here we have a wonderful example of a fully restored, porcelain dial, Rolex ladies evening wear watch in 9ct pink gold from 1916. The watch is fully signed on the case, movement, and dial and the original 9ct signed bracelet has been re-sprung and is suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes. The bracelet is complete with its original clasp and safety chain.

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 pink 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 U.K. Hallmarks which date the watch to 1916 and the serial number 918193. 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.

As ever, our standard advice applies: Vintage watches should be kept clean and dry at all times.

The Dial

The original Breguet numeral, white porcelain dial is immaculate. These dials are not subject to ageing from sunlight, humidity and pollution the way more modern dials are, so when found as here, without any cracks, crazing, chips or other damage, they are hugely desirable as they look the same as they did when first produced. Porcelain dials were very difficult and expensive to produce due to the number needing to be rejected following the firing process. Metal dials were much easier to produce and as dial and lacquer technology improved, so did quality and appeal. However, Patek Philippe and occasionally others continued to produce these in small numbers and these now command a huge premium.

This ‘1 – 12’ Breguet numeral, porcelain dial with original blued steel hands and gilt dot minute indices is undoubtedly the most sought after dial produced for this watch.

The Movement

The original hand-wound movement is signed Rolex 9¾, 15 Jewels and has been fully overhauled and serviced by our vintage Rolex specialist watchmaker who reports it to be in excellent condition therefore 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 do need to be treated with extra care, so while perfect for special occasions, we do not recommend this watch for everyday use.

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

The Bracelet

The watch is fitted with its original 9ct pink 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 bracelet is complete with its original clasp and safety chain making it very easy to fit and safe to wear.

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 1916. Detailed particulars are included with the receipt, along with our 12 months’ warranty*. A separate insurance valuation for the replacement value will also be provided at the time of sale. This will also include our ‘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”.

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

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 be something of beauty to use, treasure 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 our 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.