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 the UAE Armed Forces. In 1976, the Abu Dhabi Defence Force was joined with the UAE’s Federal Armed Forces, Dubai Defence Forces, and the Ras Al Khaimah Mobile Force to create the joint UAE military Armed Forces, whose emblem can be found on this example’s dial. A rare watch commemorating the conglomeration of the UAE’s defence forces, this timepiece’s history as a watch worn by servicemen perfectly matches its rugged design, tool watch status and Rolex’s reputation as a watchmaker obsessed with creating timepieces that can last a lifetime.

Watch head is in overall excellent condition. There is minor surface wear along the case and caseback. The dial has gold indexes and is in near-mint condition. Lume is intact and hands match the dial. There are no blemishes on the dial. Watch comes on a nato strap but also comes with a riveted band with 10 links. It shows moderate stretch and some previous repairs, and is in very good condition.

Watchmaking and the military have always gone hand in hand, but examples like this with military insignia are surprisingly rare. As such, with its insignia-adorned dial, this example marks an opportunity to add a stunning piece of UAE military and watchmaking history to your collection.