99 Rolex Extremely Attractive and Rare, Datejust, Automatic Wristwatch in Gold, With Black Gilt Dial and Smooth Bezel, Reference 6304

Estimate: €10,000 –⁠ 20,000

Model: Datejust
Reference: 6304
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1954
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: A.296
Case N°: 975677
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case

The Rolex Datejust is arguably one of the most iconic timepieces ever produced. Making its milestone debut in the mid-1940s, the Datejust was the first ever self-winding wristwatch with a date function by Rolex deriving its design from the cherished 1930s Bubblebacks and thus also nicknamed “Ovettone” for its bigger case. For the first time, in 1953 the Rolex Datejust was available also entirely in steel, with the introduction of the new models 6304 and 6305, which replace the previous references 6104 and 6105 which was only in production for two years. The main difference between the two was in the bezel: reeded for the 6305 and smooth for the 6304. The present example of Rolex Datejust is a really charming 6304, with an attractive yellow-gold case from circa 1954. Very well preserved, it is equipped with one of the most charming dials Rolex has ever produced, the black gilt one with applied gold indexes. Perfectly matching and standing out from the gold case, the dial is exceptional with gold texts and date. 1954 was also the year in which Rolex presented at Basel World the Cyclops magnifying lens. This small magnifying glass was placed on the watch glass at the opening of the date window allowing to better view the underlying date, of course, equipped on this lot. With its distinctive smooth bezel, the 6304 is an absolute preciousness to Chas and add to any collection.