Rolex Turn-O-Graph Ref. 6309 'Thunderbird' - Black 'Gilt' Dial w/ 'Roulette' Date
The Rolex Turn-O-Graph is easily one of, if not the most underrated model in the brands history. To say that it is historically important would be a understatement of biblical proportions....
Predating the — yes, we're going to say it — iconic Submariner by mere months, the Turn-O-Graph Ref. 6202 was in fact the first piece to utilize an externally affixed rotating timing bezel. Early advertisements refer to it as the "simplest 'stop-watch' ever yet waterproof and self-winding!" and depict it being used as a timer for cooking, auto racing, sailing, and even to time phone calls. Ironically, this is no doubt what most people use their Submariners for these days, rather than diving. Ironic, considering the Turn-O-Graph was largely phased out as an independent model, and merged with the Datejust line of watches where it adopted the 'Thunderbird' nomenclature.
The example that we have here dates to circa 1953 and is offered in strong overall condition. The case comes in at a familiar 36mm in diameter and offers a surprisingly svelte feel on the wrist. It has been gently polished in the past, likely decades ago and retains strong, correct proportions with clear hallmarks and an excellent solid yellow gold timing bezel. Inside, the glossy black 'gilt' dial presents nicely, with light patina on the surface, applied 'dart' indices and a frame around the 'roulette' date aperture, and an 'alpha' handset to round it out. Flip it over, and the caseback features an always alluring engraving.
The Turn-O-Graph is and always has been an underrated model next to it's far more popular siblings within the Rolex lineup... But the Submariner undeniably owes it's looks and basic idea behind its creation to the first Ref. 6202.
When you consider their extreme rarity, beautiful looks, and fantastic construction that you would expect from and Rolex, Turn-O-graphs presents almost unbelievable value... and thats before looking at the price of the earliest Submariner references...
This well-rounded example is fit for any wrist, any occasion, and any collection. A truly special piece.
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