During the onslaught of the Japanese-led Quartz Crisis of the 70s and 80’s, Swiss watchmakers for forced to adapt to remain competitive in the market, or let themselves be swallowed up by their competition. As a way to deal with the Quartz Crisis, Rolex decided to release their own quartz timepiece in 1977, the Oysterquartz. In 1970, Rolex had released the precursor to the Oysterquartz, the Quartz Date 5100, powered by the Beta 21 movement, the result of a large-scale Swiss collaboration. While the Oysterquartz was loosely based on the ref. 5100, the Oysterquartz’ movement was in a league of its own. With 11 jewels, the latest CMOS circuitry, a 32000-hertz oscillator, and analog thermocompensation to regulate the quartz crystal, the Oysterquartz’s movement was held to just as high a standard as Rolex’s more typical mechanical movements. Besides its unusual movement, the Oysterquartz also features a unique construction in terms of its case shape and bracelet design, with an integrated bracelet attached to a tonneau-shaped case. Additionally, the ref. 19049 is one of the most sought-after Oysterquartz variants with its Day-Date functionality, and the example that we have here is perhaps one of the most opulent with a diamond-set bezel, hefty 18kt white gold construction, diamond-set dial with diamond hour markers and diamonds set throughout the dial in a sort of pave fashion. Additionally, it also features the Day-Date Oysterquartz' bracelet, complete with a concealed clasp - something every Day-Date connoisseur can appreciate.

Watch is in near-mint overall condition. Case is in remarkable condition with sharp chamfered edges and original factory finish. Original Pleiade diamond dial in near-mint condition showing no signs of wear. The bracelet has 25 links, 6 of which are removable. There are some scratches visible along the bracelet, and it shows little stretch.

Showing that being quartz-powered doesn't mean you have to compromise on luxury, this diamond-set ref. 19049 Oysterquartz features all the same creature comforts that collectors look for in Day-Date models.