This is a beautiful and rare model of the Rolex Oyster Royal manufactured in 1938.
Not only is it rare to find an intact Rolex from this vintage today, but the dial of this model is the original, printed with the name of the jeweler who sold it new in 1938.
Croydon & Sons was a jewellery firm founded in Ipswich in 1865, and it is believed they specifically commissioned Rolex directly to create a dial bearing their name.
The entire watch has not been touched or polished.
The super high-grade 15 Rubis chronometer movement has been perfectly serviced by our in-house watchmakers.
To complete this fine piece, we have fitted it with a new high quality Hirsch strap.
Case.
The stainless steel case and bezel are in good condition for their age, with light signs of wear. The case measures 29mm in diameter excluding the Rolex Oyster screw-down crown, and 36mm tall including the lugs.
All markings on the inside of the case back are accurate as expected and the Rolex serial number 67469 remains on the outside of the case back.
Dial
The rare dial is untouched and has a lovely patina, this watch exudes 1930s style and class.
The dial is signed: Rolex Oyster Royal, Croydon & Sons, Swiss Made.
Movement
Very high grade 15 Rubis manual winding movement in very good condition. Movement is signed: Rolex, Swiss Made, Fab Swiss, 15 Rubis.
This movement has been fully serviced by a watchmaker.
strap
To finish off this beautiful watch, it comes with a brand new and very high quality Hirsch strap.
accessories
As with many vintage watches that are over 60 years old, the original certificates and boxes have been lost or discarded over the years.
However, even though this watch does not have its original box or certificate, the reference numbers, markings, signatures and hallmarks are all correct, proving that this watch dates to circa 1938.
This item is being entrusted to us by a friend overseas, so it will take about 2 weeks to 1 month for it to arrive.
