Famed as the base model that all of Rolex’s sports models use as their foundations, the Oyster Perpetual is an iconic watch that has a profound impact on horology. While its no-frills stainless steel construction is utilitarian, its design is equally timeless and classic. With its smooth stainless steel bezel and clean dial, the Oyster Perpetual has long been a collector favorite. Produced from the late 1950s until the early 1980s, the Oyster Perpetual ref. 1002 introduced the automatic cal. 1560 movement to Rolex’s catalog and came with either a silver or a gilt dial. Here we have the silver dial variant on its original stainless steel Oyster bracelet with a matching stainless steel polished bezel. Boasting an appealing aged appeal through its patinated luminous material that dots its applied hour markers and sits atop its hands, this example’s display reveals its heritage as a vintage timepiece that has stood the test of time.

Watch is in excellent overall condition. Case shows minor wear, with some marks and scuffs on the case and bezel. Numbers between the lugs are crisp and clean. The original silver dial si in excellent condition with minor wear on the edge, and slightly discolored luminous dots. The alpha hands are oxidized and have luminous of consistent tone. The folded oyster bracelet is later than the watch, and has 10 links and fits an approx 6 1/2" wrist. There are two removed links that are included with the watch. There is light to moderate stretch in the band.

Robust and utilitarian, the Oyster Perpetual has always been built to last, and the splendid condition of this ref. 1002 only stands to support that fact.