We are working with a UK based collector who has asked us to market a selection of his watches. As part of the offer each watch has had a full service and refurbishment by the UK’s leading watchmaker, Steven Hale Watch Restoration. Each watch will come with a 2 year guarantee from Steve Hale and a lifetime guarantee on the authenticity by Sonning Vintage Watches.
Rolex was formed in 1905 and their groundbreaking Oyster series was launched in 1926 and were available in cushion (square) and octagonal (8 sided) cases. This particular example was made in 1927 so very early in the production run. Very few of the cushions have survived and even less of the octagonals. The solid silver case is in overall excellent condition with only minor signs of wear (a little on the outside case back edges). The original crisp white ceramic dial is in excellent condition – always difficult to tell on ceramic but we believe the dial is untouched but do guarantee it’s original to the watch. The feast for the eyes old style numbers along with the railway line minute markers, sub-second dial and beautiful gothic hands create a stunning look. The cases were in 3 pieces with a centre, outside case back and front lens – this can be seen in the 3rd dial picture. The very high grade manual wind movement is in wonderful condition and one of the earliest examples of ‘timed for all climates’ to help with time-keeping in humid countries. The watch sits on a new, black alligator grain open-ended (these had solid lugs) strap with steel Rolex buckle (much later addition). Whilst a robust watch this wouldn’t be suitable for everyday wear.
The Oyster changed watchmaking for ever and to find such an early example is wonderful.
