Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 6284 - 'OCC Explorer' Dial

If you boil Rolex down to its purest form, what do you get?

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual. This is truly the genesis for the entire Rolex brand. The very first Rolex models were called ‘Oysters’ which was owed to their innovative three part case that all screwed into each-other. This watch represents an evolution of that, when these were still semi-bubble back watches.

The piece that we have here, simply know as an Oyster Perpetual, is a descendant of those early watches, utilizing a water-resistant Oyster case, an automatic-winding movement, and nothing else. No frills — purely a functional timekeeping device.

Dating to circa 1953, this Reference 6284 features a 34mm Oyster case which comes to us in strong overall condition, showing signs of having been lightly previously polished, while respecting factory proportions. It shows normal signs of wear from age and use throughout with a correct smooth steel bezel, which is seemingly unpolished. Inside, the once glossy black dial shows some 'matting' from age, almost resembling 'granite' in its appearance. The 'dart' and quadrant 'Arabic' indices are gold-tone and recessed, with Radium luminous plots on the outside. The dial is complimented by a correct 'alpha' handset, which has been previously re-lumed. This piece comes fitted with a later 'stretch-rivet' Oyster bracelet with a signed blade clasp.

Despite being ‘entry-level’ these offer a ton of character and remain an overlooked part of the important history of Rolex on their journey to the powerhouse brand that they are today. This is nothing short of a delightful vintage piece that can be worn every single day, on any occasion, and on virtually any wrist.