Originally released in 1953, the reference 6305 and its sister reference 6304 (fitted with a smooth bezel) replaced the short-lived references 6104 and 6105 which were in production for only two years from 1951 to 1953. Nicknamed "Ovettone" or “Big Bubbleback” due to its bulging caseback designed for early self-winding calibers such as the A296, the reference was produced most often in stainless steel, yellow gold and more seldomly in pink gold, like the present example.
Arguably one of the most iconic timepieces ever produced, the Datejust was the first ever self-winding wristwatch with a date function by Rolex with its design deriving from the cherished “bubblebacks” from the late 1930s and early 1940s. Cased at 36mm in diameter, the timepiece sits comfortably and elegantly on the wrist.
Preserved in excellent overall condition, the present Rolex Datejust reference 6305 in pink gold showcases strong proportions as well as a crisp and legible hallmark beneath the lug. Still retaining its original crown, the timepiece features an attractive creamy-white dial which has taken on a light layer of patina over time, further adding to the charm of the timepiece. The Jubilee bracelet is from the period and stamped from the fourth quarter of 1952. The red Datejust script and roulette date wheel are rare features of Datejusts from the 1950s and are correct for the serial number.
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.
