An extremely rare, fine and charming stainless steel datejust wristwatch with a fluted bezel and very rare and well preserved black honeycomb radium dial, self winding
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A remarkable and exceptionally rare example of the early Datejust reference 6605, featuring a mesmerizing black “honeycomb” gilt dial, luminous Alpha hands, and the celebrated roulette date wheel alternating in red and black. Housed in a stainless steel Oyster case with fluted bezel, screw-down caseback stamped IV.57, and fitted with its original folded-link Jubilee bracelet and rare Rolex “+” crown, this piece embodies the timeless elegance of Rolex design from the golden age of the 1950s.
The dial, with its exquisite engine-turned honeycomb texture and gilt printing, retains the warmth of its original radium lume, gracefully aged to a soft amber hue. The gilt minute track and faceted hour markers shimmer subtly under changing light, a poetic testament to Rolex’s meticulous craftsmanship of the era.
Powered by the self-winding Caliber 1065, chronometer-certified, this reference was among the first Datejusts to feature the instantaneous date change mechanism.
A truly captivating specimen, combining the charm of its gilt radium dial, roulette date, and Alpha hands, all preserved in harmonious originality.
An evocative and exceedingly rare expression of mid-century Rolex artistry — one that whispers the quiet poetry of time, precision, and patina.