Revolution: The Evolution of the Role...

New York, Apr 17, 2008

LOT 95

Ref. 1016, Space-Dweller Rolex, ?Oyster Perpetual, Space-Dweller, Superlative Chronometer, Officially Certified?, Ref. 1016. Made in 1963. Fine and extremely rare center seconds, self-winding, water-resistant, stainless steel wristwatch with a stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet. Accompanied by a recent service invoice and a pouch.

USD 20,000 - 30,000

EUR 13,000 - 20,000

Sold: USD 48,000

C. Three-body, polished and brushed, screw-down case back and crown. D. Black with luminous Arabic numerals and baton indexes, outer minute/seconds divisions. Luminous steel skeleton hands. M. Cal. 1560, rhodium-plated, 25 jewels, straight line lever escapement, monometallic balance adjusted to temperatures and 5 positions, shock absorber, self-compensating free-sprung Breguet balance spring, Microstella regulating screws. Dial, case and movement signed. Diam. 36 mm. Thickness 13 mm.


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 3-9

Good

Scratched
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-6-01

Good

Slightly oxidized

HANDS Original

Notes

The ?Space Dweller? was first introduced on the Japanese market in 1963, just after a visit to Japan by the Project Mercury astronauts. Initiated in 1958 and completed in 1963, Project Mercury was the United States' first man-in-space program. The Space Dweller was made to honor these men, who were (at that time) seen as the ultimate explorers. The watch was not a major seller, either in Japan or elsewhere, and very few of the "Space Dweller" watches have surfaced.