Description:
ROLEX BOMBAY ROSE GOLD BLACK DIAL REF. 6090
In 1926, Rolex introduced the world’s first waterproof watch, the “Oyster,” famously tested by Mercedes Gleitze during her English Channel swim in 1927. Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf celebrated this achievement and made Gleitze the brand’s first ambassador. The name “Oyster” reflects its tightly sealed case, showcased in jewelry store fish tanks to highlight its waterproofing. However, merely being waterproof wasn’t enough to make wristwatches essential. Constantly unscrewing the crown compromised water resistance. In 1931, Rolex introduced the self-winding Perpetual rotor, a groundbreaking innovation. The term “Oyster Perpetual” emerged around 1945, signifying the integration of this mechanism with the robust Oyster case. The late 1940s saw the introduction of a distinctive Oyster Perpetual model with unique lugs, often affectionately known as “Rolex Bombay” among collectors. This nickname originated from the term “bombè” describing the lug’s curved shape. While unofficial, it’s widely recognized in the collector community. The Rolex Bombay, although it always maintained a case size of approximately 34mm, was produced in various versions and references over the years.
This Rolex Oyster Perpetual reference 6090 is undoubtedly one of the rarest and most captivating Bombay models ever produced. The dial features a two-tone design with an outer ring in rose gold and a black gilt lacquer center with sparkling gold OCC lettering, complemented by dauphine hands, creating a truly extraordinary aesthetic. Very few examples with this dial configuration have come to market because they were produced in very limited quantities, catering to the most discerning and extravagant clientele. The rarity of this 6090 is further accentuated by its rose gold case, a material seldom used in Bombay models. The icing on the cake is the rose gold mesh bracelet from the same production period as the watch. The preservation condition is truly exceptional: the case still boasts beautiful Bombè lugs with well-defined shapes, deep hallmarks, and perfectly visible serial numbers. The A.260 caliber functions flawlessly, the black gilt lacquer dial remains mirror-like without any defects, the case back shows no closure issues, and the Super Oyster crown works as it should. The bracelet is neither loose nor deteriorated.
This watch is exceptional, both for its rarity and its beauty—an object for a discerning collector seeking a truly unique timepiece.
Serial Number 855,XXX Year 1951 Circa, Diameter 34mm circa