Rolex chronometer

I was recently sent this watch with a request for an opinion. Visually, it appeared to have a badly discoloured dial. I removed the crystal to find it was an opaque brown colour, likely radium burns. The dial you see was hidden behind that disgusting crystal. The luminous paint in the hands was badly deteriorated, and the hands were very rusty. I replaced the luminous paint in the hands after de-rusting them, and ultrasonically cleaning them. I replaced the crystal with a low profile acrylic crystal. You may notice the dial is marked adjusted 6 positions, Rolex, Observatory (as in “chronometer”). The movement is a 10 1/2 ligne, Hunter grade, calibre 700, 17-jewels. The serial number is behind the dial, on the pillar plate. The movement is fitted with the patented Rolex ‘Super balance”. The movement was made for Rolex by Aegler who was associated both with Rolex and Gruen. I have one of these movements in my collection. The difference between the two movements is that the movement in my watch is actually marked 6-positions, and this one is not! I find that odd. My estimate on the age is circa late 1930s. The Keystone (non-Oyster) case has a steel bezel and back, and the mid case is chrome plated. The 24-hour dial has luminous numerals 1 thru 12. I found it interesting.

Interesting bit of history. I love it. I’m certain the owner is happy.

Thanks for sharing, looks really nice. Is the case size around 30mm? Do you have any before photos?

In my post, I mentioned that I have Rolex Royalite chronometer of about the same vintage in my collection. It is basically the same movement, except for the fact that it has a sweep seconds hand. In the picture, you will see this one is marked timed in 6 positions which the subject watch was not. This one doesn’t have an import code on it, either. One other significant factor is the Rolex Royalite is in a Swiss made Rolex Oyster case, while the subject watch is in an American made (Keystone), non Oyster case.





I have another Rolex with the same movement, with a sweep seconds hand. This one is not marked as Observatory or chronometer.
This one doesn’t have an import code on it either.