1959 Rolex Datejust Ref. 6605 cream tropical 'Roulette' dial with 'Salazar Mark'

By the mid-1950s, the Rolex Datejust had already cemented itself as the definitive automatic dress watch, but Rolex was far from done refining it. Enter the reference 6605—the bridge between the earliest Datejusts and the more modern iterations that would follow. Introduced as the successor to the 6305, the 6605 preserved the classic 36mm Oyster case, available in stainless steel, yellow gold, and two-tone, while introducing key refinements that set the foundation for future Datejust generations.

 

Chief among these was the introduction of the Caliber 1065, a slimmer, more efficient automatic movement featuring a compact rotor, improving both power delivery and reliability. This reference also standardized one of Rolex’s most recognizable features—the Cyclops magnifier over the date window—while maintaining the elegant fluted or engine-turned bezels that had become a Datejust signature.

 

But one of the most beloved details found on certain 6605s is the Roulette date wheel—alternating between red and black numerals, a detail that injects a playful touch into an otherwise refined aesthetic. It’s these small quirks, these design choices born out of an era of experimentation, that make this reference so collectible today.

 

The 6605 was produced for only a few years before being replaced by the 1601, making it a rare find in the world of vintage Rolex. A short production run, early movement advancements, and timeless proportions all contribute to its desirability.

The example offered here is a 1959 Rolex Datejust Ref. 6605 with a stunning ‘Roulette’ date wheel, but the real magic lies in the dial.

 

Originally a pearlescent white, the dial has aged into a warm, creamy tropical hue, with hints of copper-toned patina forming around the sword and dagger markers and the bold big-font text. Time has added a richness that factory perfection never could.

 

The radium lume plots have almost completely faded, yet the remaining lume print retains its character. The original ‘sword’ hands have aged accordingly their lume, now settling into a deep, dark sage hue, creating a perfect harmony between dial, markers, and hands.

 

The excellent 36mm case shows normal wear from use and looks to be unpolished. The bottom right lug shows a rare trait; the Portuguese import stamp, also known as the ‘Salazar Mark’, meaning this watch was hallmarked to identify the payment of import taxes and proving its provenance from this market. The sharp engine turned bezel also looks like it remains in the same untouched condition, showing normal wear from use. The case back shows normal wear, and it is correctly engraved on the inner side.

 

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 am unworn handmade tan leather strap with stainless steel buckle, similar to the one shown on the pictures.

 

A 6605 Datejust is already rare, but one with a tropical pearlescent dial and Roulette date wheel? That’s something truly special. A vintage Rolex that has aged with grace, character, and an undeniable presence on the wrist.