Rolex Super Oyster Perpetual 9K Semi-Bubble Back 1953

Description

A rare early Gents Rolex Oyster Perpetual (automatic), in 9ct solid yellow gold from 1953 and also one of the world’s first waterproof automatic wristwatches. This is model No. 6084 and Cal. 645 which has a semi-bubble back and the original Super Oyster crown. In order to accommodate their larger early automatic movements, Rolex introduced a rounded or ‘bubble back’ case and later, for a brief period as the automatic movement became smaller, the ‘semi-bubble back’. At around the same time, Rolex briefly introduced the ‘Super Oyster’ crown also seen here. With its classic ‘3 6 9’ dial and early ‘Officially Certified Chronometer’ high grade movement, all in first rate condition, this watch has a lot going for it!

The Dial

Brimming with early ‘50s charm, this watch has the classic silver white dial with raised gold Crown, ‘3, 6, 9’ and spearhead batons. Unusually it is signed ‘ROLEX’ in raised gold, along with ‘Oyster-Perpetual’ and ‘Officially Certified Chronometer’. The wonderful original gold ‘Alpha’ style hands and blued steel ‘needle’ seconds hand are all in superb condition. The dial also has an outer seconds track which is subdivided into fifths of a second. Marvellously, this is matched by the movements of the seconds hand, as it subscribes the dial. This is the original dial which has been ‘refinished’ to the highest standards available.

The Case

The gold ‘Semi-Bubble Back’ case is one of the most sought after by Rolex collectors. Not as deep as the full bubble back it sits better on the wrist and is more reliable. This case carries clear markings externally, with the model number 6084 between the lugs at 12 o’clock and the serial number 918075 between the lugs at 6 o’clock. This is remarkable because these areas are subject to wear from the strap as it comes into contact with the case. Gold cases are especially prone to wear in this spot which indicates that this watch has been used very sparingly. Similarly the bezel, sculpted lugs and semi-bubble back are also in unmarked condition indicating this watch has indeed led a charmed life. Further, this watch also still has its original Super Oyster (non screw down) crown. This is rare partly because these were only produced for only around two years, but also because many of these were later converted to screw down Oyster crowns.

Inside the screw down case back are found the same model and case reference numbers are along with Geneva Swiss 9ct hallmarks along with the beautifully elaborate earlier Rolex insignia, Patented and R.W.C. Ltd for Rolex Watch Company.

The case has been professionally cleaned and very lightly polished and is as nice as one can find.

The Movement

The high grade ‘Officially Certified Chronometer’ Cal.645 automatic movement has just been serviced and is running perfectly. It is signed ‘Rolex Perpetual Chronometer’ with the movement reference number 85758 and the certified chronometer reference F74939. This particular movement is again in wonderful condition and with regular servicing, say every 3 to 4 years we would fully expect this watch to run quite happily for another lifetime! The movement has been thoroughly inspected, cleaned and fully serviced by a highly qualified Rolex watchmaker. We are therefore very confident in offering this watch with a 12 months warranty*.

The Strap & Buckle

A very high quality, new brown leather, padded strap is fitted with an aftermarket gold plated Rolex buckle.

The Box and Papers

There are no original papers with this watch. However the numbers and markings on the watch are all correct and date the watch to 1953. A detailed written receipt, with a separate insurance valuation for the replacement value will be provided at the time of sale. The genuine vintage Rolex box shown in the accompanying photographs is offered with the sale*.

*Only included if the list price is paid.

In Conclusion

We love to find 1950’s vintage gold watches of this quality and condition and offer them here for sale. This is an extremely desirable and highly collectable vintage watch from horology’s most famous name, which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as something to treasure and enjoy!

Even though prices have moved on a little recently, we still feel gold Rolex watches from this period are undervalued. As each year goes by the world market for vintage Swiss gold watches is growing almost exponentially and so inevitably this will mean prices climb ever higher.

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

For more information and to discuss the price and payment, please call 020 7727 7095 or text Alan on 07515949250 or +44 7515949250 if calling from overseas.

We are also able to take part exchanges.

Please take a look at our other fine Vintage Gold Watches!