Rolex Oyster Perpetual ‘Date’, 18K, 1966 – Sorry Now Sold 13/4/15

Description

Here we have a beautiful fully restored Rolex Oyster Perpetual 18K Automatic, ‘Date’, model ref 1503, with the hugely successful Cal.1560, Certified Superlative Chronometer Grade, (highly accurate and highly reliable), automatic movement withe Date Function has been carefully and sympathetically fully restored using only original Rolex parts where necessary.

The Dial

This is a beautiful classic 1960s Silk White Dial with subtle a Starburst Effect Radiating from Centre – it has been Superbly Restored! It carries ’60s ‘Stick Hands’ and needle centre seconds hand with black baton hour markers with an outer minutes/seconds track. The gold Rolex Crown at 12 o’clock, and Date function at 3 o’clock, completes the dial. It is signed Rolex (the brand) Oyster (the waterproof case) and Perpetual (the automatic movement). Also ‘Officially Certified Superlative Chronometer’, meaning the movement has been tested and has qualified as a ‘Chronometer’ grade movement, (i.e. highly accurate and highly reliable} by COSC the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute. The lens is quartz glass and new.

The Case

This original Swiss hallmarked 18K solid gold case, measures a large 35mm in diameter without the original Rolex Oyster crown. It is completely blemish free with no marks, dings or scratches visible to the naked eye! The case has the simpler and more elegant smooth bezel making the watch beautifully understated.

The case-back is highly polished and full thickness case-back proving it has never been inscribed. In fact all of the case is in immaculate condition having simply been professionally cleaned and carefully polished.
Inside the case-back are two Swiss 18ct hallmarks and 0.750 18K. Also GENEVA SWITZERLAND ROLEX PATENTED and with the model number 1503. Externally the case carries this watch’s serial number: 1958XXX indicating the year the watch left Rolex was 1966

This case has all its rubber seals in place including the big o ring on the case-book which easily goes missing and is not replaced. And even though water-tight when new, this has not been tested and is not guaranteed. Please note, 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.1530 movement which was very successful and is highly regarded for being particularly accurate, reliable and strong. The movement 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 D2719X. The movement has been calibrated and timed and tested prior to writing this listing and it is running strongly and accurately at ±15 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*. *12 months warranty is only applicable if the Buy It Now price is paid.

The Strap and Buckle

The strap fitted is a new very high quality dark brown ‘croc’ leather strap which is fitted with a matching Rolex gold plated buckle. An 18ct Rolex buckle can be fitted for £200, which is what they cost us to buy if we shop around! Also a different colour or different style strap is preferred please let us know and we will do our best to supply and fit whatever would prefer, free of charge.

The 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 1966. A detailed written 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 supply a lifetime authenticity guarantee. (see FAQs)

The Rolex presentation box shown in the photographs is included in the sale. If not shown, please refer to one of our other Rolex Oyster Perpetuals

*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 1960’s vintage Rolex in 18ct gold and in immaculate condition. It is a completely practical and ready for wear as an everyday watch. And treated carefully it will be an excellent investment or heirloom piece, particularly when kept in such superb condition. And even though vintage gold Rolex prices have risen recently, we still feel good examples such as this are undervalued. As each year goes by and the world market for vintage gold Rolex watches continues to expand, prices are climbing ever higher. So this is a highly collectable vintage gold watch from horology’s most famous name, which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as something to treasure and enjoy!

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 bank transfer we will be pleased to assist you with this and pass on a 2% 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.

Please take a look at our other vintage gold watches!