Two kinds of ?monochrome? enamel vintage dials are generally seen: the present type, with the Rolex crown at 12, and a larger one, with the Rolex crown under the 12 o?clock marker. The enamel dial of this watch, though monochrome, is a masterpiece in itself. By its finish, it can be determined to be from the last series of monochrome enamel dials made by Stern Frères for Rolex during the period. The outer minute dots, which look like applied gold, are in fact drilled with a specially-made diamond tool, giving a conical, high-relief effect. They are called ?pearls? and their brilliance is due to the sharp-cut cone that reflects light at 360 degrees. The indexes are hand made and the facets cut with a diamond. The maker?s signature and all other inscriptions are of pure gold powder and are produced by means of a transferring machine (décalqueuse). The deep green color of this dial suggests that it might have been created for the 50th anniversary of Rolex, in a limited series of 50 examples. These dials are very rare and ever rarer when not cracked or damaged. One of the Rolex collector?s favorite watches, here in an early version with the most sought-after dial type.
Genex Had the same address as Gay-Frères. The Genex factory was a sub-division in which Rolex became a partner and was the main supplier for its gold cases at that time.