The DateJust model is one of the most appreciated designs ever conceived by Rolex. The unmistakable aesthetics of the Oyster case is instantly recognizable, and the practicality of a waterproof case with date indication makes it ideal as an everyday watch. The model has had many variations in case metal, dial design, bracelet type and size developed over the years to ensure anyone can find a DateJust suitable to his or her tastes. It truly can be considered one of the cornerstones of Rolex’s current collection, and integral in the brand’s historical evolution.
The DateJust was released in 1945 for the 40th anniversary of the company, and has remained in the Rolex catalogues ever since. Technically, production of vintage DateJust can be divided into three broad categories: the original caliber. A.295 (and its upgrade A.296) were used from 1945 to 1956, followed by the launch of the references 6605 and 6604, and remaining in production until 1977 with the calibers 1065, 1565 and 1575. These calibers were thinner than the previous generation, and allowed for a slimmer Oyster case. Finally, in 1977 Rolex released the caliber 3035 with quick set date.
The reference 6605 is amongst the rarest DateJust models available having been made between 1956 and 1959 - together with sister reference 6604 with polished bezel. These two references are furthermore the only ones featuring the caliber 1065.
The present watch is in exceptional, nearly new condition and offered with its original Rolex Guarantee, presentation box, chronometer rating certificate dated 1956, hang tags, and product literature. It can be considered a “time-capsule” piece, having likely been forgotten and untouched for decades since it was first sold. The absolute crispness of the case, tautness of the rare, riveted, expansion Oyster bracelet, and the completeness of its original accessories make it a true treasure for the connoisseur.
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.
