Presumably built very close to the creation of the very first Oyster in 1926, this Oyster has one of the lowest serial numbers we have seen surface in our research for this reference, and it likely is one of the earliest Rolex Oysters made. The only earlier serial numbers we have seen are on two other similar watches we are offering for sale as part of our new historical Oyster collection.
Without question one of the company's greatest contributions to horology is in the area of waterproof cases. The Rolex Oyster case birthed the idea of the modern sport watch as we know it and was a key catalyst for the initial widespread acceptance of the wristwatch.
Several events worked to greatly popularize the watch: Sir Malcolm Campbell's land speed record attempt where he achieved a speed of 272 mph, all done while wearing a perfectly functioning Oyster very similar to this one. And, of course, perhaps the most well-known early event in the company's history: wearing an Oyster. Following the historic event, Rolex took out a full-page ad in the Daily Mail introducing the Oyster.
Unlike many watches from this era, it is not a small boys size watch. While not large, it is a mens size that measures 32mm without the crown, and the large crown adds another 4mm.
It has all of its original parts including its original onion style "Oyster Patent" crown.
Its chrome-plated Oyster case with screw down bezel presents in beautifully restored condition. Its dial was restored long ago in vintage times and has toned giving it a true vintage look.
It comes equipped with a likely original or perhaps period correct expandable bracelet that was on the watch when we acquired it.
Powering the watch is its original Rolex caliber 885 handwound movement. The dial, case, and movement are all signed Oyster or Oyster Watch Co., which was Rolex's initial experiment in branding for its revolutionary Oyster line.
One of our watchmakers has just disassembled it down to the last screw and cleaned and oiled the movement. It continues to keep incredibly accurate time for a watch this old.
For the finishing touch we have meticulously detailed it making it ready for immediate enjoyment.
Included with the purchase is a one-year C.O.T. warranty on the movement and its function, a custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity, and a new timing certificate attesting to its performance.
A tremendously early Oyster very similar to the watch worn by race motorist Sir Malcom Campbell during his numerous and famous land speed record attempts. A fine watch from our new "Historically Important Rolex Oyster" collection.
- Manufacturer: Rolex
- Country of origin: Switzerland
- Serial no: 21,892
- Year built: c. 1927
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Subsidiary Seconds
- Designed for: Men
- Case material: Chrome plated
- Case condition: Beautiful restored condition
- Crown: Original Rolex screw-down onion crown signed "Oyster Patent"
- Dial: Silver, signed Oyster, luminous Arabic numerals, outer railroad minute track, has lightly warmed to a sepia tone and has light "burn" from the hands. Please inquire if you would like it restored.
- Dimensions: 32mm wide (excluding crown - the crown adds another approx. 4mm) by 38mm long lug tip to tip
- Hands: Luminous batons
- Movement type: Rolex, manually wound, nickel finished, correctly signed, 15-jewel lever movement with Breguet overcoil hairspring, index regulator
- Band: Likely original or perhaps period correct, expandable/adjustable, stainless steel, patented with number, fits a wrist from under 6.5 inches to approx. 7.5 inches, overall excellent condition for its age with a couple of pin prick indentions on the clasp. We also stock lizard and a variety of others straps in various prints, skins, and colors. Please ask us if you're interested.
- Width between lugs: 16mm
- Crystal type: Acrylic, excellent condition
- Serviced: One of our watchmakers has just disassembled it down to the last screw and cleaned and oiled the movement making it ready for immediate enjoyment.
- Timing: Timed to precision on a state-of-the-art computerized system. Your watch is important to us, and we will take care of it for its lifetime. We provide the best after sale care in the business with an experienced team of watchmakers both of whom each have over forty years of experience and a large number of parts.
- Warranty: 1-year international warranty. Please email [email protected] for details.
- Box/Papers: BOX - Connoisseur of Time watch presentation box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity; New timing certificate
- Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee
