55 Rolex Iconic and Attractive, Oyster Perpetual, Automatic Wristwatch in Steel, With Reeded Graduated Bezel and Retailed by Serpico y Laino, Reference 6569

Estimate: €1,000 –⁠ 2,000

Model: Oyster Perpetual
Reference: 6569
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1957
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 1030
Case N°: 357694
Dimensions: 34 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case

In 1926, Hans Wilsdorf introduced a totally waterproof case, and in 1931, Rolex revolutionized again watchmaking by introducing the world’s first self-winding mechanism with a free rotor that would rotate 360º with the natural movement of the wearer’s wrist to generate power. The Oyster Perpetual heralded a new era of convenience and functionality. This ingenious system was a true work of art by Rolex and is at the heart of every modern automatic watch today, including the present reference 6569. Launched in the early 1950s, this reference was available in both stainless steel and gold and is often referred to as the large bubble back without a date. The present example is remarkable for its conservation and the beauty of its stainless steel case, featuring an attractive reeded graduated bezel with hour and five-minute markers, a detail that differentiates this model from its peer, the reference 6569. The dial, with applied baton indexes, has gained a cool patina that gives the watch a distinct aura. Additionally, it bears the prestigious signature of Serpico y Laino, the iconic Venezuelan retailer for Rolex and Patek.