Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 18k

In a world were steel sport Rolex is less and less attainable, there is still hope. Paradoxically, the more accessible option comes in the form of solid gold.

We know... its a bit confusing... 

Oyster Perpetuals continue to be some of the brands most accessible offerings from a value standpoint. Slightly smaller than a Datejust, Oyster Perpetuals offer a whole lot of watch for the price you pay. Case and point, this 18k Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Date for a tad over $6k. If you walk into a Rolex boutique, a brand new steel one will cost the same. 

The Oyster case shows sharp lugs, crisp hallmarks, and is constructed from thick 18k Yellow Gold, the gold-toned dial adds elegance and balance to its overall presence. If you don't believe us, we urge you to try it on at our Manhattan showroom by scheduling an appointment. 

At 35mm, this piece is far more understated than the words 'solid gold Rolex' usually connote. If you don't believe us, we urge you to try it on at our Manhattan showroom by scheduling an appointment!

The Story

Rolex first patented the Oyster case in 1925, but the quest for a waterproof and dust-proof case began shortly before the First World War. The cases of the Great War and the early 1920s came in two or three pieces with an inner case that shielded the movement (then a manual-wind movement) from the wet, dusty conditions of the battlefield. The Oyster case of 1925 represented the culmination of ten years of development. It gained notoriety in 1927, when Mercedes Gleitze became the first British woman to swim across the English Channel, wearing - you guessed it - a Rolex. A series of advertisements followed, featuring smiling flappers holding their Rolexes in fishtanks.

As with the Oyster case, the Perpetual movement saw many iterations before finally being perfected in the 1930s. Rolex's first automatic movement quietly debuted in 1931, without the fanfare that followed the introduction of the Oyster case. The movement was met with some consternation from purists who decried the "extreme novelty" of a self-winding watch. Nevertheless, Rolex could see that they had struck gold with the Perpetual movement. They continued to develop and improve it over the years, establishing a line of watches that would stand as an alternative to Rolex's sportier models.  

The Oyster Perpetuals of the 1960s and 1970s remain some of Rolex's best-loved timepieces. Elegant, with clean lines, the watches are nevertheless sturdy, coming in stainless steel or 18k yellow or pink gold. Meant to be worn every day, the Oyster Perpetual Date combines elegant looks with rugged dependability. 

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.