The Turn-O-Graph launched in 1953, is considered one of Rolex’s milestone watches. Designed as a “tool” watch like the Submariner, it was fitted with a rotating bezel with a black insert calibrated to 60 minutes designed to fulfill accurate timekeeping. Although, the reference 6202 was not the first Rolex to be fitted with a rotating bezel, as the credit goes to the “Zerograph”, it certainly was Rolex’s first mass produced model to feature one. The rotating bezel is one of the most important elements that inspired its successors to carry the same features such as the Thunderbird and the GMT-Master and also the Submariner.

Released in different dial configurations, such as the gilt lacquer and the honeycomb dial. The initial launch of the Turn-O-Graph was not as popular as anticipated, as it was overshadowed by the Submariner. Due to its low popularity, the production of the Turn-O-Graph seized which resulted in a very low production numbers for the respected reference.

The present example is of the gilt-lacquered dial reference 6202. Presented in overall very good condition, the present piece features an attractive dial with original hands and featuring the correct “lollipop” seconds hand. The dial also features a strong reaction under UV light on the 6 O’clock position luminous hour marker, which is typical for this reference as it was perhaps designed by Rolex to enhance the legibility of the dial in the dark. The reading on the Geiger counter is high at 400 units. However, the black insert on the bezel is from a later period and so it’s the bracelet and clasp.