The Rolex Oysterdate is an admittedly utilitarian watch. Refined and free from excess like a lot of other Rolex models, it is a tool watch in its purest form. Launched as the ref. 6094 in Rolex’s busiest year, 1953, it featured the manual-wind cal. 1215. This was eventually upgraded to the cal. 1225 that powered the reference we have here, the ref. 6694 that debuted in the early 1960s. Svelte by today’s proportions, the Oysterdate was sold as an entry-level version of the Datejust, with its 2mm smaller 34mm case and manual movement allowing its retail price to be that bit more palatable. This more accessible price worked in enabling groups to purchase the watch, just like various armed forces, companies and so on. A no-frills watch with useful functionality at an affordable price, it is no surprise that the ref. 6694 and other vintage Oysterdate references are such a unique and interest part of Rolex collecting. Offered here our rather unique example sits on a leather bund strap with a black tropicalized dial with gold hour markers and faceted hands that add a splash of luxury to this tool watch, while also accentuating the golden glow of its tropicalized dial.

Watch is in very good overall condition. Case has been previously polished, and shows moderate wear with somr rippling in the bezel and some marks visible along the case. Original gilt dial is in very good overall condition. Black surface has faded to a tropical brown tone, with some mild spotting and degredation due to the radium plots and hands. There is some minor pitting along the edge of the case threads as shown in the images. Watch comes on a bund style strap with a generic buckle. Please note: While the watch is running at the time of cataloging, the timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.

Contrasting the ref. 6694's no-frills aesthetic with its uniquely tropicalized dial and bund leather strap, this example is perhaps one of the most interesting Oysterdates that we have had the pleasure of selling.