ROLEX Oyster Perpetual – The first waterproof watch case Rolex made was the “Oyster” – And “Perpetual” refers to the perpetually winding rotor inside every Rolex watch.
It was around 1945 when the name Oyster Perpetual first came out to be seen. The Oyster Perpetual watches combined the robust Rolex Oyster case with the Rolex self-winding movement.
In 1926, Rolex launched the original Oyster watch – the first waterproof watch. “The Oyster name comes from an oyster, sealed keeping the bivalves closed keeping ocean water in. Of course, for a Rolex Oyster, the opposite is the goal, sealing the movement keeping water and dust out.”
Then, in 1931, Rolex patented a self-winding movement that uses a weight to gently wind the watch as it is being worn on the wrist, and thus the word “Perpetual” was added as the watch could be perpetually wound.
ROLEX Datejust – A milestone in watchmaking history, the Datejust was Introduced in 1945 and it still symbolizes Rolex’s definition of classic elegance. The Datejust was the first self-winding waterproof chronometer wristwatch to feature a window displaying the date on the dial at 3 o’clock position. This unique combination was further enhanced in 1953 with the magnifying effect of the Cyclops lens on the display.
“The Datejust offers comfort as well as legibility and daily time management. Useful and practical, it was soon established as a precious instrument for the modern, independent, active wearer.” – From rolex.com/en-us.
ROLEX Datejust
Ladies 26mm
Oyster Perpetual
Ref. 179163
“The Datejust was the flagship of the Rolex collection.”
Today we are presenting one of the popular Rolex models. Introduced in 1959, this is a vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Ladies wristwatch, reference 179163 and serial number F970381. The serial number dates this timepiece from the mid 2000's.
This is an automatic watch powered by a Rolex movement caliber 2235, 31 jewels, sweep second hand, adjusted 5 positions temperature, 48-hour power reserve, 28,800vph frequency, Swiss made. Movement serial number 1689122.
The caliber 2235, like all Perpetual movements is a certified Swiss chronometer. It has been officially certified, timed and inspected for strict accuracy for the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).
Gray dial featuring gold Roman Numerals and gold matching hands and black railroad minute/second track. The date window is located at 3 o’clock position. The dial is also signed with the Rolex name and logo, Oyster Perpetual Datejust, and Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified.
Cased in a 36mm two-tone stainless-steel case, featuring the unique and perfect combination of the yellow gold fluted bezel and the Rolex signature waterproof screw-down crown. Crystal with magnifying effect of the Cyclops lens on the display.
It comes on the original two-tone Rolex Oyster bracelet with three-piece links and folding clasp, reference CL72133. It will fit a wrist up to 6 1/4" (15.9 cm). Also, this watch comes with the original box.
It is in excellent condition and would make a great addition to any vintage collection.
Thank you for looking! Please feel free to contact us with any question, or respectful offers.
Movement:
ROLEX
Geneva Swiss
Thirty-One 31 Jewels
Adj. 5 Positions Temperature
Cal. 2235
Case Markings:
ROLEX
Geneva
Switzerland
Rolex S.A.
Stainless Steel
2320
Measurements (mm):
Case 26
Case w/crown 29
Case Lug to Lug 33
Case Thickness 10.3
Lug Width 13
Band Width 13
Vintage watches are traditionally smaller than today's watches. Men’s watches typically measure between 29-36mm wide (some larger, some smaller) excluding the crown. In the listing details we typically try to do our best to list all pertinent dimensions of a watch. If you don't see it, or we failed to do so, please reach out to us. Women’s watches from the 1900s-1970s were also much smaller than today's offerings. Please also feel free to ask any questions you have pertaining to size.
We prefer to shoot photographs outside when weather is permitting. However, when we shoot indoors, please be aware that we shoot our photographs inside of lightboxes that are lit with 360 LED bulbs. This indeed magnifies any flaws. Usually, they are much less obvious to the naked eye. Having said that, we never photoshop any of our photography, remove blemishes, etc. We adjust the lighting, when necessary, but what you see is what you are getting, and we take pride in that.
The condition is pre-owned.
The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear but is fully operational and functions as intended.
Please review the photos and feel free to ask any questions you may have.
It will be carefully packed.
Please view our other listings.
Thank you for looking!
WA-0764