Rare Rolex 9k Gold Travel Clock c. 1940s

Name: Rare Rolex 9k Gold Travel Clock c. 1940s
Brand: Rolex
Rating: 4.9 (52 reviews)

About the Item

Journey Through Time: A Rare Rolex 9k Gold Travel Clock (Circa 1940s) Embark on a voyage of vintage luxury with this exceptional Rolex travel clock, crafted in 9k gold and whispering tales of the 1940s. This piece is more than just a timekeeper; it's a collectible treasure, a testament to Rolex's enduring legacy of precision and elegance. Imagine yourself aboard a transatlantic liner, the gentle rocking of the waves lulled by the rhythmic ticking of this golden marvel. Its rich 9k gold case gleams with the warmth of aged patina, each scratch and mark whispering of its storied past. The classic white enamel dial features bold black Arabic numerals and elegant blued steel hands, offering a timeless aesthetic that transcends eras. Owning this piece is not just about possessing a vintage Rolex; it's about acquiring a piece of history. It's a conversation starter, a symbol of refined taste, and a connection to a bygone era of travel and exploration.

Creator:
Rolex
Metal:
9k Gold
Period:
Mid-20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1940
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
New York City, NY
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU12222117512

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Rolex

While the rise in popularity of vintage Rolex watches is of no surprise to aficionados, collectors and industry experts, when it comes to contemporary luxury wristwatches, Rolex is also often the first brand that springs to mind. Not only is the company revered for its precision timekeeping and impeccable craftsmanship, but its name was designed to be memorable.

Rolex's enviable worldwide recognition can be credited in part to the genius of company founder Hans Wilsdorf. When the German-born watch dealer and his brother-in-law, Alfred Davis, set up their London enterprise, in 1905, they called it Wilsdorf & Davis, according to the traditional formula.

But Wilsdorf was determined to come up with another name that was short, would look good on a watch dial and was easy to say and remember in several languages. In 1908, he trademarked the name Rolex, and by 1920, he had moved the company to Geneva and redubbed it as Montres Rolex S.A.

But the main reasons for the brand’s success are its aforementioned commitment to precision and unflagging pursuit of innovation. In 1926, the company introduced the aptly named Oyster model. With a screw-down crown and case back, both fitted with rubber gaskets, this was the first truly waterproof watch.

Five years later, Rolex upped the ante with the Oyster Perpetual. That model’s patented Perpetual movement contained a rotor mechanism enabling it to self-wind. In another trendsetting move, in 1945, the brand debuted the Datejust, with a date window prominently displayed on the dial.

The company’s two most iconic models are sports watches. Although the Submariner, which debuted in 1953, was developed as a dive watch, its waterproof case, solid construction and good looks made it a favorite of adventurers and urbanites alike, including James Bond, who wore it in classics like Dr. No and Goldfinger. The Daytona, the racing chronograph made famous by Paul Newman, is especially sought after by collectors. Newman’s personal Daytona, which hit the auction block in 2017, sold for $17.8 million.

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