1956 Rolex Oyster Precision Ref. 6424 'Cream dial'

These Rolex Oyster Precision watches were produced between the beginning of the 1950’s and the end of the 1960’s. Numerous variations of dials and movements were developed, but often it was a ballade of 34mm cases equipped with automatic movements. Clarity and simplicity of the dial, finesse and elegance of the case are several features we still cherish today.

 

The reference 6424 has gone through a few cosmetic changes including dial and hand variations. Most of the 6424 we see today are from the second half of the 1960’s, have a black or silver dial and Baton hour markers and hands. Rolex replaces the marker at noon most of the time.

The gem we offer here is different.

 

A lovely cream dial with soft vanilla patina, eleven faceted appliqué hour markers, another eleven pumpkin patina lume plots, the Rolex crown replacing the twelve-hour marker, Alpha hour and minute hands with matching patina bringing strong character to the ensemble, and a blued central second hand adding a touch of elegance.

 

But what is the most unique trait of the reference? Its size, clearly. While most Oyster Precisions, with or without date, appear with 34mm cases and a lug width of 18mm or 19mm, the reference 6424 proudly sports its 36mm and 20mm lug width. This one remains in most probably unpolished condition.

 

Housing an extremely flat hand-wound Rolex cal. 1012, it allows a very flat screwed-down case back that shows signs of normal wear.

 

Another detail that will allow you to recognize a 6424 is that the lugs that are not pierced. Rare for Rolex watches between the 1950’s and 1960’s since “un-pierced” lugs were mainly for cases made from precious metals.

 

Although the popularity level of an Explorer 1 of the same period has skyrocketed a while ago, these small gems with a similar look are still undervalued by the public. With its large size and 20mm lug width, we have here a dressy watch with a military-adventurer feel about it.