One of Rolex's greatest contributions to horology is in the area of waterproof cases. The Rolex Oyster watch, which featured a unique case and patented screw down crown that offered its owner complete protection against water, dust, and perspiration, birthed the idea of the modern sport watch as we know it and was a catalyst for the initial widespread acceptance of the wristwatch.
Several events worked to greatly popularize the watch: Sir Malcolm Campbell's land speed record attempt where he achieved a speed of 272 mpg, all done while wearing perfectly functioning Oyster. And perhaps the most well-known early event in the company's history: Mercedes Gleitz's English Channel swim wearing an Oyster. Following the historic event, Rolex took out a full-page ad in the Daily Mail introducing the Oyster.
Today's offering showcases this wonderful and rare vintage ladies Rolex Oyster made circa 1945. Beating away inside our watch is the original diminutive hand wound Rolex movement complete with Super Balance system for greater accuracy.
It presents in wonderful condition. The parts are all original down to the crown and all hands. The case presents as better than near mint. The dial is very clean. It still retains its original Oyster Patent crown that screws down well.
Our watchmaker has just freshly cleaned and oiled the high grade movement, which was originally adjusted to two positions and is also still very clean..
- Manufacturer: Rolex
- Country of origin: Switzerland
- Serial no.: 346,845
- Year built: c. 1945
- Model: Ref. 3494
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Sweep Seconds
- Designed for: Ladies
- Case material: Stainless Steel
- Case condition: Better than near mint
- Dial: Rolex Original Faded White with luminous numbered indexes, signed Rolex,
- Dimensions: 18mm wide (without crown), 25mm long lug tip-to-tip
- Hands: Original, luminous batons and original seconds hands
- Movement type: Rolex, manually wound, 7 1/2"', rhodium plated, "fausses cotes" decoration, 17 jewels, lever escapement, Super balance balance, self compensating flat balance-spring adjusted to two positions
- Jewels: 17 rubies
- Band: Leather, fully stitched, padded, brand new and unworn
- Width between lugs: 12mm
- Crystal type: Acrylic, fine condition
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
- Box/Papers: BOX - New generic watch presentation box.
- Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee
FREE UPS 2ND DAY AIRMAIL SHIPPING WITH TRACKING AND SINGATURE UPON ARRIVAL FOR ADDED SECURITY!