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. 1008 was amongst the references that introduced the automatic cal. 1560 movement to Rolex’s catalog. Here we have a black Zephyr dial variant of the ref. 1008 on a stainless steel Oyster bracelet with a stunning 18kt yellow gold bezel and matching 18kt yellow gold crown. Boasting an appealing aged aesthetic through its patinated bezel and stunning jet-black dial with gilt inscriptions, 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 some wear on the case, with the brushed lugs developing a sheen due to wear. The gold bezel has some edge wear, with the most noticable area of wear being around 6 o'clock on the bezel. The original black gilt dial is excellent, with a shiny lacquer surface, and minimal wear or signs of aging. Luminous plots are intact. Hands are slightly oxidised and have some breaks in the luminous inserts. Watch comes on an original riveted bracelet with 12 linsk total. There is light stretch, and it fits a 7 1/2" wrist.

A wonderful example of how the Zephyr dial can transform the look of a watch, this ref. 1008's black display completely transforms it from a normal Oyster Perpetual into something completely exotic.