Initially launched in 1953, the Rolex Turn-O-Graph's release sparked an exciting turning point in their horological history. Considered Rolex's first serially produced tool watch, the Turn-O-Graph ref. 6202 was iconic for its eponymous feature; its bidirectional rotatable bezel. Armed with such a useful function, the Turn-O-Graph was designed to measure and record time much like a chronograph. Marketed to international business travellers, the Turn-O-Graph was presented as a tool to perform quick calculations due to its bezel. As such, the Turn-O-Graph was chosen by the United States Air Force’s aerobic squadron, the Thunderbirds, to aid in their pilots' navigational calculations. Recognizing the opportunity, Rolex marketed the Turn-O-Graph as the "Thunderbird" in the North American market. While sales for the Turn-O-Graph began to decline with the Submariner and GMT-Master’s launches due to their similar design and heightened utility, the Turn-O-Graph remained in production until the 1960s and exists as one of Rolex’s most important vintage-era watches.

The watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows scratches and marks consistent with its vintage, with additional light nicks and tool marks on the case back. The brass bezel remains well defined, and the early style insert is in very good condition with some visible scratches. The black chronometer rated gilt dial features crisp galvanic text and has aged to a pleasing, even matte finish. There is some damage to the lume plot at eight o’clock, and some discoloration found on the other luminous plots. The later hands are very clean and appear to have been relumed to match the dial. The watch is fitted with a folded link Jubilee bracelet showing light scratches and play between the links. The bracelet has 19 links and fits an approximately 7” wrist.

An important piece of Rolex's history, the Turn-O-Graph is often wrongfully overlooked for the watches that it preceded such as the GMT-Master and Submariner. With its unique heritage, design-defining bezel and low production numbers, it is about time the Turn-O-Graph got the plaudits it deserves.