Rolex “Ovettone 6305 Rose Gold” Datejust

Description

Up for grabs is a very rare Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust “Semi-Bubbleback” or “Ovettone”, which is Italian for “Big Egg”, referring to the bubble-shaped case. Due to the rotor being screwed onto the movement, more space was needed and the case back formed to accommodate that. These watches were also large for this era of Rolex, coming in at 36mm.  The Reference 6305 was produced with center seconds, and features a red date wheel. This particular example was housed in 18kt rose gold, much less common than its yellow gold counterpart, and dates to circa 1953-54.

This Rolex Ovettone Datejust is in nice vintage condition.  The case has been previously polished, but the lugs remain thick and even.  The dial is very attractive, showing some light aging/wear, consistent with the effects of radium on these dials.  In the same regard, the watch retains its original radium lume, present on both dial and hands, and aged to a dark yellow color.