Rolex - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVIII Hong Kong Friday, May 24, 2024 | Phillips

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  • Condition Report

  • Description

    View our Conditions of Sale.

  • Manufacturer: Rolex
    Year: Circa 1998
    Reference No: 69178, inside caseback stamped 69000A
    Movement No: 3’925’514
    Case No: T605’617
    Model Name: Datejust
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Automatic, cal. 2135, 29 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: 18K yellow gold Rolex President bracelet, endlinks stamped “68B”, max length 165mm
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Rolex concealed folding clasp, stamped “Z5” and “8570”
    Dimensions: 26mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Rolex guarantee stamped Godechot & Pauliet France dated 6th August 1998, 1998-1999 calendar, green leather card holder, instruction manual, product literature, cloth, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.

  • Catalogue Essay

    The allure of hardstone dials lies in their individuality, given no two pieces of stone are identical, making each watch truly unique. However, the manufacturing process is arduous, as stone cutting carries a high risk of cracking, resulting in a meticulous and challenging craftsmanship.

    This Datejust from the late 1990s is truly captivating. Its striking lapis lazuli dial creates a breathtaking contrast against the elegant yellow gold case. In impeccable condition, the lapis lazuli retains its pristine beauty, showcasing an enthralling texture that sets it apart from any other stone.

    This exceptional timepiece is accompanied by all the original accessories, including a correct calendar card and the original presentation box, further enhancing its desirability. It is a rare gem, ideal for female collectors seeking something distinct within the Rolex collection.

  • Artist Biography

    Rolex

    Swiss • 1905

    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.

    View More Works

1033

Ref. 69178, inside caseback stamped 69000A
A well-preserved and rare lady’s yellow gold wristwatch with center seconds, date, lapis lazuli dial, bracelet, guarantee and presentation box

Circa 1998
26mm diameter
Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed

Estimate
HK$100,000 - 150,000 
€12,000-18,000
$12,800-19,200

Place Advance Bid
Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2031
WatchesHK@phillips.com
 

Gertrude Wong
Head of Sale, Hong Kong
+ 852 2318 2045
gertrudewong@phillips.com
 

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVIII

Hong Kong Auction 24 - 25 May 2024