This is one that you don't see every day. Quite a long story, but I first saw it advertised on Craigslist in late 2019, but the seller and I couldn't agree on a price. In 2022, he listed it again and we made a deal. Interestingly, the seller said that the reference and serial numbers were obscured, but fortunately I was able to read them under magnification. It's a ref 6298 with serial 172016 (just after the serial number reset), and the case-back engraving reads I 54.

A few interesting things about the watch. The case is 36mm as opposed to the typical 34mm for Oyster Perpetual models. For this reason, it is part of a series of references nicknamed "Ovettone" (big egg) because the back has sort of a semi-bubbleback shape to accommodate the movement. Notably, the dial has an uncommon 50m=165ft depth rating, and it represents a period during which Rolex was a transitioning from dress oysters to tool/sport watches, so this watch has some features of both. The reference is also sometimes called a pre-Explorer, since the first Explorers shared this reference number and were supposedly carried on Everest. Also interesting is the crossed-out reference with a second reference in the case-back. Rolex was frugal at the time, and found ways to use all of their parts.

The black gilt dial is very appealing to me and reasonably well-preserved, with mostly intact lume, although it has lost much of its glossy finish and the lacquer is showing its age. The crown is not original, and I will be keeping my eyes open for a "Brevet +" crown at a reasonable price. The handset appears to be original and the case doesn't show major signs of polishing (e.g. no cratering around the lug holes) although there is some pitting between the lugs. The cal A296 movement is running well, but I believe that the auto-winding may need some work. Fortunately, my watchmaker has quite a few parts for this caliber.

Fun find for me. I really like the gilt dial, the size, and the fact that it is a no-date reference. I think it will look good on a black strap, or perhaps a rivet bracelet, the case is 20mm between the lugs.

 

A beauty, and interesting background. Congrats Dan!

 

WOW! congrats!

 

Damn, as a guy who knows little about Rolex (me) I would just appreciate it for it’s look. Nice dial, interesting script and hands, I’ll take it.

 

Beautiful, congrats!

 

Fabulous. Congrats!

 

Nice one. Here is its not nearly as nice looking cousin, ref 6105 i believe. Congrats and enjoy.

 

Wow, what reference is that?

 

Ref. 6105.

 

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I had one like this years ago...don't remember where I bought it or to whom I later sold it. The OPs black dial is truly rare...and stunning.

 

Looks great, nice size too.

I have a couple of those modern straight ended Forstner rivet bracelets and can recommend them as a great option for various watches without breaking the bank. IIRC only €170 or so.

 

Wow that is a cool watch. 36mm black gilt, depth rating, smooth bezel. Very attractive all the way around.

Just this morning when in the safe, his younger cousin caught my eye, so it’s now getting some wrist time. 6305 with cool patina, and some red for good measure.

 

Those little pops of red are so appealing.

 

Since I don't see it yet...DIBS! Very appealing piece!

 

thank you. Unfortunately, I cannot get a photo that does this watch justice.

edit to add: I’ll trade ya…even if just temporarily…

 

Lord have mercy!

 

Beautiful watch Dan!

 

That is a stunner and a great story! Congratulations!

 

Normally, I'd skip Rolexes, but this one is quite appealing. It's a bit like with Ferrari, there's douchy ones and ones for enthusiasts. Thank you for the story and congratulations!