Manufacturer: Rolex Year: 1950 Reference No: 8029 Case No: 630'891 Model Name: Precision Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. 1220, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle Dimensions: 38mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Rolex presentation box.
Catalogue Essay
The history of Rolex is punctuated by rare and unusual timepieces, which open a door to our collective knowledge. Around every corner new gems can be found, waiting to be discovered. The present example, reference 8029, is one such watch. Made during the early 1950s, the oversized 38 millimeter case impresses the beholder, and gives a nod to the future of things that were yet to come. Large size stainless steel cases were not the norm for luxury brands in post World War II, with most cases measuring around 33 millimeter and manufactured in gold. The impressive size is further enhanced by the ultra rare dial, featuring diamond numeral markers at the quarters.
A trophy timepiece is one that is both rare and highly desirable, and while a time only wristwatch, this delightful reference 8029 can certainly be considered a a trophy for a new or experienced connoisseur. With minor traces of use, it was hardly worn, retaining its original factory finish with strong bevels, factory satin finished surfaces, and its overall proportions correct. The original dial looks stunning yet understated with the diamond numerals, making this rare and elegant 1950s wristwatch a treasure for both daily and evening wear.
Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.
One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.