A solid fourteen carat gold Rolex Oyster Perpetual with black waffle dial.This Rolex reference6567, are sometimes referred to as "OP" watches, for being plain Oyster Perpetual versions of Rolex's iconic Oyster case. They share the same size case as the Rolex Date model, coming in at 34mm. These handsome examples have a much cleaner look without the date window at the three o’clock position, and also no bubble on the crystal as a result. Unusually this example, which is made in fourteen carat yellow gold, were made exclusively for the American market. These watches were made with a variety of dials, but these early waffle dial versions are the most sought after. This one being no exception being a black version with gilt printing. This dial is possibly made be renowned dial makers Stern. It has the typical Stern style hour marks that are found on the Patek Calatrava's of the period.
The dial is stamped "Swiss" at the foot of the dial. The dauphine hands have a small central area running through the center within which Radium luminous material was added. There appears to be no material added to the hour markers along the minute track. It has not fallen off, or been removed as there are no signs of it ever having ben applied. This is not uncommon on these more dress watches from the 1950's.
Watches in this condition are exceptionally hard to find. This yellow gold example boasts a classic fluted bezel, and while its 34mm case size may seem small, it si only 2mm smaller than the classic Datejust, and has a great presence on the wrist.
The case is in superb condition. It is lightly polished, but not extensively with strong lines throughout, little thinning to the lug, and no deep recesses into the lug holes. The Swiss hallmark is still noticeable on the inside of the lug, even though polished too. Both sets of engraved serial and model numbers are present between the lugs.
The watch is powered by the iconic and earlyRolex 1030 caliber. This is a self-winding, sweep second, shock-resistant movement that was used in the first Rolex Oyster Perpetual watches in the 1950's, along with the earlier 645 caliber. They were Chronometer grade, hence the lovely gilt dial printing. The case back inside is stamped 6567 and all of the relevant Swiss marks for fourteen carat gold.
Overall, this is a very rare watch with its original black waffle dial. So handsome, and striking. These are exceptionally hard to find today, especially in this condition.
