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 very good overall condition. The gilt glossy "underline" dial is shiny and has perfectly aged luminous plots. The dial is an early service dial made in 1963, that took original dials that were left over but applied low radiation tritium in lieu of radium 226. The red triangle bezel insert is aftermarket. Caseback is stamped 1954, and shows many service marks inside. The watch comes on a C&I USA riveted bracelet with 11 links. It shows light wear and is dated 1971.

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.