ROLEX DATEJUST OYSTERQUARTZ REF. 17014 WHITE DIAL WITH PAPERS
The Rolex Oysterquartz is an interesting piece in Rolex’s history. It was introduced in the late 1970s and produced until the early 2000s. What set the Oysterquartz apart from other Rolex watches is its movement, which was quartz rather than the traditional mechanical movement found in most Rolex timepieces. The quartz movement was seen as innovative at the time for its accuracy and reliability. Rolex’s engineering advancements with the Oysterquartz caliber were so significant that the term ‘Oysterquartz’ is prominently stamped on the dial of every Oysterquartz timepiece. The Oysterquartz models were characterized by their distinct angular case designs, which were quite different from the classic rounded cases of Rolex’s mechanical watches. They were available in various styles, including Datejust and Day-Date models.
This Rolex Datejust Oysterquartz reference 17014 exemplifies the exceptional craftsmanship of this unique Rolex timepiece. Produced in the late 1980s and accompanied by its original papers, this watch boasts a distinctive fluted bezel, in accordance with its reference 17014 designation; notably, the reference 17000 featured a smooth bezel, while the 17013 model was crafted in steel and gold with a yellow gold fluted bezel. All components are original and correct for the period of production. The dial showcases tritium markers and hands, and appropriately bears the COSC designation as the brand certified all its Datejust Oysterquartz watches with COSC from the early 1980s. The watch houses the caliber 5035, perfectly suited to this model. The bracelet and caseback exhibit all the correct period markings for this specific model. Remarkably preserved, this timepiece boasts original factory finishes, a bracelet with no signs of stretch, and a flawless dial.
Serial Number R,410,XXX, Diameter 36mm, Year 1989, sold in 1997.
BUECHE GIROD GOLD COIN WRISTWATCH
Established in 1947 by Vital Bueche and his wife Girod, Bueche Girod emerged as a re-spected but modest watchmaking enterprise. Despite its small size, Vital Bueche, a skilled watchmaker celebrated for his precise movements and patented innovations such as the non-phase and plain calendar, bolstered the company’s reputation. Over time, Bueche Girod expanded its capabilities, producing movements and timepieces for renowned brands like Cartier and Bulova. Alongside its own collection, which primarily focused on intricately designed ladies’ watches, Bueche Girod gained recognition for its lavish creations, featuring solid gold cases adorned with precious gemstones. However, with the rise of the quartz era in the 1980s, characterized by a preference for quartz watches and a decline in automatic timepieces, Bueche Girod struggled to adapt and eventually ceased operations in response to shifting market dynamics.
Gold coin watches were highly popular during the 1900s. These timepieces, whether wrist-watches or pocket watches, were ingeniously crafted within original gold coins from various countries such as the US, Mexico, France, and many others. This art is exceptionally delicate, as transforming an original gold coin into a watch without altering its dimensions, especially its thickness, requires great skill. Numerous watch manufacturers, including Patek Philippe, Corum, and Piaget, developed their own unique styles and techniques for crafting these precious timepieces. Bueche Girod was among these brands, known for beautifully refining and crafting gold coins into exquisite timepieces. This particular Bueche Girod timepiece features a 20-dollar gold coin transformed into a wristwatch, revealing an intricate mechanism that opens the gold coin to display a Bueche Girod manual winding wristwatch. Fully adorned with Bueche Girod signatures on the case and dial, this watch is a remarkable addition to any collection, showcasing Bueche Girod’s spirit of innovation and creativity during its golden era.
ROLEX DATEJUST OYSTERQUARTZ 17000 BLUE DIAL LIKE NEW FULL SET
The Rolex Oysterquartz stands as a notable chapter in the brand’s history. Introduced in the late 1970s and continuing production until the early 2000s, it departed from Rolex’s traditional mechanical movement in favor of a quartz movement. This shift was significant, marking a departure from the norm and showcasing Rolex’s dedication to innovation. The quartz movement, renowned for its precision and reliability, was a departure from the mechanical movements found in most Rolex timepieces of the era.Rolex’s engineering prowess with the Oysterquartz caliber was such that the term ‘Oysterquartz’ was prominently displayed on the dial of every timepiece. The distinct angular case designs of the Oysterquartz models set them apart from the classic rounded cases of traditional Rolex watches. They were available in various styles, including Datejust and Day-Date models.Within the Datejust Oysterquartz line, three distinct models emerged over time: the reference 17000 featuring a smooth bezel, the 17014 with a fluted bezel, and the 17013 crafted in steel and gold, boasting a yellow gold fluted bezel. Each model offered its own unique blend of style and functionality, further contributing to the diversity within the Oysterquartz range.
This timepiece is an exceptional smooth bezel Oysterquartz model reference 17000, notable for its outstanding state of preservation. A testament to its remarkable condition is the presence of the caseback sticker, still intact. Additionally, in our opinion, the case remains in factory mint condition and has never been polished. Few signs of wear are evident, indicating careful preservation by the previous owner. Furthermore, the bracelet is in mint condition, showing no signs of wear or stretch. Enhancing its collectability is an exceedingly rare and flawless blue dial with Luminova hands and hour markers. Blue dials are particularly uncommon, further augmenting the watch’s desirability. The dial correctly displays the Oysterquartz wording and COSC certification. Adding to the appeal of this timepiece is its complete set of amenities, including the box, outer box, booklets, and leather portfolio. The paperwork is signed by Hausman, a prominent Roman retailer, further enhancing the collectibility of the watch. Notably, all components are correct and original for the period of manufacture. This timepiece is not only remarkably preserved and complete, but also boasts all correct and original components, making it a highly desirable addition to any collection.
Serial Number P,358,XXX, Diameter 36mm, Year 2001.
ROLEX DATE REF. 15238 FULL SET BLACK DIAL RIVETTI BRACELET
The Date model sets itself apart from the Datejust with its slightly smaller case size; the Datejust measures 36mm while the Date is 34mm. Additionally, the Date was positioned as a slightly more affordable option compared to the Datejust and Day-Date models, making Rolex watches accessible to a broader audience at the time. Over the years, Rolex continually upgraded the Date model, resulting in changes to its reference number. Rolex manufactured the Date model from the early 1970s, with the final iteration being the reference 15200, produced from the early 1990s to the early 2000s, after which it was discontinued from the Rolex catalog. The main features of the Date model included the caliber 3135 movement and a case diameter of 34mm. During this period, Rolex also produced the Date model in yellow gold, with reference 15238 being the most expensive Date option in the catalog. Particularly noteworthy were versions with special bracelets such as the Jubilee or riveted bracelets, like the example here.
This specific Date ref. 15238 in 18kt yellow gold is an exceptional representation of this reference. Purchased from the notorious Italian authorized dealer “Monetti” from Napoli in 1991, this Date has been worn but also meticulously cared for over the years. The case retains its original finishes without any polishing, displaying deep gold hallmarks. The gorgeous black dial remains flawless still with all lume plots. All components are correct for the production year, including the T Swiss Made T dial, caliber 3135 movement, 15200 caseback, Twinlock crown, and original 18kt rivetti bracelet. The watch comes with its original box and certificate of guarantee from the Italian authorized dealer, Monetti Napoli and an extra white dial. It is truly an amazing timepiece, both in terms of its exceptional overall condition and the collector set that accompanies it.
VACHERON CONSTANTIN “LES HISTORIQUE” JAULOSIE
Les “Historiques” is a collection by Vacheron Constantin that pays homage to the brand’s rich heritage by reintroducing iconic timepieces from its history, often with modern updates and enhancements. These watches often appeal to collectors who appreciate the timeless elegance and historical significance of Vacheron Constantin’s creations. The origins of the Jalousie and its design can be traced back to a wristwatch design from the 1930s called the ‘Montre à Volets’. In contrast to the Jalousie’s lever at 6 o’clock, the original 1930s version featured shutters that were opened by turning the crown at 3 o’clock, with time adjustment accomplished by turning a crown at 9 o’clock.
This Vacheron Constantin Jaulosie watch is an exceptionally rare model from the “Historique” line, produced by Vacheron Constantin in the 1990s. The Jaulosie was predominantly crafted in gold, with the white gold version, like the present specimen, being the rarest and produced in limited quantities. Its rectangular case is intricately adorned with decorative motifs on the sides. When the lever at 6 o’clock is not engaged, the watch is concealed by a complex mechanism resembling grates, which open upon pushing the lever and activating the mechanism. Beneath the cover lies a simple yet elegant timepiece with a silver dial and a subsidiary dial at 6 o’clock, adorned with blue steel hands. This mechanical, manual-winding watch is based on a JLC caliber, a characteristic occasionally found in Vacheron Constantin timepieces. In terms of condition, the watch is exceptionally well-preserved, showing minimal signs of handling on the case. The original leather strap, accompanied by a matching Vacheron Constantin deployant clasp, adds to its allure. Undoubtedly, this is a truly special and rare addition to any Vacheron Constantin-themed collection.