Important Collectors Watches, Pocket ...

New York, Oct 17, 2008

LOT 161

Black Diamond Dial Datejust Rolex, "Oyster Perpetual, Datejust, Officially Certified Chronometer," Ref. 6105. Made in 1953. Very fine and rare, tonneau-shaped, water-resistant, center-seconds, self-winding 18K yellow gold chronometer wristwatch with an 18K yellow gold Rolex Jubilee bracelet.

USD 10,000 - 15,000

EUR 7,000 - 11,000 / CHF 11,000 - 17,000

Sold: USD 72,000

C. Two-body, polished and brushed, screwed-down case back engraved: From Zella to Francis 6-11-54, Super Oyster crown, fluted bezel. D. Black, set with 6 round brilliants and applied yellow gold faceted dart indexes, outer 1/5th of a second divisions, gold framed aperture for the date. Yellow gold alpha hands. M. Cal. A.296, rhodium-plated, 18 jewels, straight-line lever escapement, monometallic balance, self-compensating Breguet balance spring, index regulator. Dial, case and movement signed. Diam. 35 mm. Thickness 14 mm.


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

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

Good

HANDS Original

Notes

Among the Datejusts, left-handed and black-dialed versions are probably the most sought-after. Combined with the alternating black and red date wheel, this example is probably the rarest Datejust to appear at auction, combining a black dial with diamond indexes. It is interesting to note the characteristics it has in common with the rare reference 6062, which also was produced with a black dial and diamonds. The Rolex crown is slightly lowered to leave room for the diamond index at 12, and the usual luminous markers are absent from the indexes and hands, indicating a dress watch. Both references feature dart indexes and square diamond markers. The desirability of this watch is further enhanced by the excellent overall condition of the case and dial, including the strong hallmark on the lug and the original Jubilee bracelet stamped 4.53. This is the first watch of its kind to ever appear at auction.