Important Watches
Important Watches
Property from the Family of the Original Owner
Reference 6105 Datejust 'Ovettone' | A pink gold automatic wristwatch with date, Circa 1953
Auction Closed
December 7, 07:12 PM GMT
Estimate
40,000 - 80,000 USD
Lot Details
Description
Dial: silvered
Caliber: automatic, 18 jewels
Movement number: 75'989
Case: 18k pink gold, screw down case back
Case number: 932'713
Closure: 18k pink gold Rolex buckle
Size: 36 mm diameter
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: no
Papers: no
Rolex introduced the waterproof and automatic 'Datejust' in 1945, and it has since become one of the most enduring and iconic models in Rolex's lineup. The Ref 6105, one of the earliest and most charming iterations of the Datejust, is often affectionately known as the 'Ovettone' by collectors, a term roughly translated from Italian to mean 'big egg.' It is considered one of the purest and most beautiful versions of this model.
The present example is an exceptionally rare combination, featuring a pink gold case, a silvered dial adorned with pink gold dart hour markers, distinct red 'Datejust' text, as well as red numerals in the date window. This watch can be described as one of the most outstanding specimens to ever grace the public market. The case exhibits minimal to no signs of wear, displaying perfectly crisp hallmarks and an exceptionally sharp bezel. The flawless dial remains blemish-free, with intact and perfectly aged luminescent markers and hands. The watch is further presented on its original strap with a pin buckle.
The watch comes to market courtesy of the son of the original owner, who served as a Captain in the 11th Military Police, Criminal Investigation Division, and later became Commander of the division in Berlin, Germany. He acquired the watch from a Military Exchange sometime between 1952-3 upon returning to the USA after his tour of service. Instead of wearing the watch upon his return, he safeguarded it in a safety deposit box until his passing. Subsequently, the watch was inherited by his son, who has chosen to offer it for sale.