Rolex Two-Tone Red Datejust (Ref. 6104) "Ovettone", 1953

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

The Rolex Datejust is one of the most iconic and beloved watches made by Rolex. Launched in 1945, it remains a timeless classic and is instantly recognizable as an item of superior quality and functional design. We love the early Rolex Datejust for its simplicity and its classic sophistication, making for a watch that can be worn just as easily with a suit as it can be with jeans and a t-shirt. "Ovettone" roughly translates from Italian as 'Big Egg' and is a term coined by collectors to represent early 36mm models that feature round case backs, more commonly seen in the smaller Bubble-Back Rolex model range, which is why "Ovettones" are also commonly referred to as "Big Bubble-Backs". The Rolex Datejust wasn't actually signed "Datejust" on the dial until the 1950s, and these early signed models were done so with special red text that was phased out after only a few years. This is synonymous with most of the new model introductions from Rolex in this era, such as the Red Submariner ref. 1680, and Double Red Sea-Dweller ref. 1665. This red detail, however small, adds an incredible amount of exclusivity and character to the Datejust dials. This two-tone Rolex Red Datejust ref. 6104 is truly stunning, not only is the original "Red Datejust" dial absolutely stunning, but it is accompanied by its original red date wheel, hands, and engine-turned gold bezel on the case. Adding to the desirability of this early Datejust reference is its accompanying accessories, this watch comes with the original chronometer certificate, papers, early Rolex service documentation, early booklets, and a rare Rolex leather card booklet making for a true collector's set on an already exclusive piece. SPECS Stock # RLXTTDJ6104 Brand Rolex Style Datejust Model 6104 Serial 91XXXX Size Men's Material SS / 14K YG Dial Yellow "Aged" Millimeters 36 Bracelet Rolex Two-Tone Jubilee W/ 55 End Pieces CASE & BRACELET The early Datejust case is exceptionally well preserved, boasting very thick and symmetrical lugs that exhibit light signs of honest use. The original and early 14k yellow gold engine-turned bezel retains its factory grooving and dimensions with normal signs of use and previous light polishing present. The yellow gold crown is an early service replacement as it features the underlined Rolex logo instead of the Rolex + brevet crown, which is common to see as crowns were frequently replaced at service in this era. The era-correct Rolex two-tone Jubilee bracelet with 55 end pieces is stamped 4/60 and was sourced with the watch, it is believed to be an early service replacement. The bracelet retains 21 links that exhibit normal stretch for the style and age of the bracelet. DIAL & HANDS The original yellow dial is exceptionally well-preserved for the age of the watch, featuring an applied Rolex logo and markers along with the iconic red "Datejust" text. The dial exhibits some age however it is very minor and accentuates the vintage aesthetic the watch offers. The original radium lume inlaid into the markers has achieved a dark patina, and displays minimal degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The original radium dauphine hands match the dial and remain in overall excellent condition, under U.V. light inspection the hour exhibits lume loss which is common, and the minute hand lume remains fully intact. The red date wheel is both original and rare. ACCESSORIES The watch comes complete with its original chronometer certificate, chronometer papers, Rolex service documents from Rolex New York in 1958, its original booklet, and a rare Rolex leather wallet. The watch is keeping time and excellent working order, previous service history is unknown.