1953 Rolex Datejust Ref. 6105 ‘Roulette’ in Steel and 18K Rose Gold

The Rolex Datejust wasn’t just a watch—it was a revolution. When it debuted in 1945, it introduced something we now take for granted: an automatically changing date. But the earliest Datejusts were far from standardized. Before the fluted bezels, before the Cyclops magnifier, there was the reference 6105—a rare transitional piece that refined Rolex’s vision for the modern Datejust.

 

Launched in the early 1950s, the 6105 was one of the first major updates to the original ref. 4467, setting the blueprint for everything that followed. Its 36mm Oyster case, available in stainless steel, yellow gold, pink gold, and two-tone, maintained the engine-turned bezel—an elegant precursor to the fluted bezels Rolex would later perfect. Powering it was the Caliber A296, an improved self-winding movement that offered greater reliability than its predecessors. Notably, many 6105s lacked the now-iconic Cyclops date magnifier, as Rolex had yet to fully integrate the feature.

 

But one detail makes the 6105 a standout among vintage collectors—the Roulette date wheel. With odd-numbered dates in red and evens in black, it’s a subtle yet striking detail that injects a touch of playfulness into an otherwise refined aesthetic. This was an era when Rolex was still experimenting, before settling into the conventions we know today.

 

The 6105 was short-lived, making way for the ref. 6305, which introduced further refinements—including a more balanced case profile and, in many cases, the first consistent use of the Cyclops lens. That brief production run makes the 6105 an exceedingly rare reference, particularly in two-tone configurations.

This 1953 Rolex Datejust Ref. 6105 in stainless steel and 18K rose gold features a stunning ‘Roulette’ date wheel, embodying all the early quirks that make this reference special.

 

The silver sunburst service dial remains in excellent condition, with rose gold stick markers that play beautifully against the warm tones of the case. The thick, intact tritium lume plots have aged to a rich, creamy hue, perfectly matching the original sword hands.

 

The excellent 36mm case shows normal wear from use and previous signs of polishing, although it remains strong. The sharp, rose gold engine turned also remains in great shape, showing normal wear from use. The case back shows normal wear, and it is correctly engraved on the inner side. The original rose gold crown is preserved.

 

The watch is running well and keeping time, although service history is unknown.

 

The original acrylic crystal has some minor scratches.

 

It comes suited on an unworn handmade leather strap with stainless steel buckle, similar to the one shown on the pictures.

 

A cornerstone reference in Rolex’s history, the 6105 blends early innovation with vintage charm—a true collector’s piece that paved the way for the Datejust as we know it today.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request.