Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 1002 (likely)
Dress/Everyday Watch · Rolex SA (Independent Luxury Manufacture). Known for durability, water-tightness, and prestige.
Period: Mid-Century Modern (1960s-1970s). Characteristics include the 'simple' steel bezel, baton indices, and classic 34mm proportions typical of the era's utilitarian luxury.
Type
Dress/Everyday Watch
Brand
Rolex SA (Independent Luxury Manufacture). Known for durability, water-tightness, and prestige.
Movement
Automatic, self-winding caliber (likely Cal. 1560 or 1570), 26 jewels, 19,800 or 28,800 BPH, approximately 42-48 hour power reserve.
Dimensions
34mm Diameter, 11-12mm Thickness, 42-43mm Lug-to-Lug, 19mm Lug Width. Wears slightly larger due to the Oyster case design.
Description
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1002 is the quintessential 'time-only' watch. Representing the purest expression of the waterproof Oyster case and the Perpetual rotor, this mid-century staple defined the understated luxury watch. This particular example shows a lifetime of wear, with a dial that has developed a unique, albeit aged, character through oxidation and exposure.
Key Features
Oyster case, smooth bezel, 'Superlative Chronometer' certification, sunburst silver dial, and screw-down crown.
Dial Description
Sunburst Silver dial (now shows significant patina and possible moisture damage). Applied white gold baton indices, Tritium loom plots (mostly degraded), Dauphine or Baton-style hands with central sweep seconds.
Case Material
Stainless Steel (316L). The case features a polished smooth bezel with brushed lug tops and polished case sides.
Crystal Type
Domed Acrylic/Plexiglass. Visible heavy scratching and fracturing/crazing concentrated at the edges.
Bezel Details
Fixed Smooth Bezel in Stainless Steel. Shows significant wear, scratches, and dulling from age.
Crown & Pushers
Rolex Twinlock screw-down crown with Rolex Coronet logo. Currently appears poorly centered or unsecured in the photo.
Bracelet or Strap
Stainless Steel 'President' style or aftermarket Jubilee-style bracelet with hollow end links. Shows significant 'stretch' and wear between links.
Caseback Details
Solid, screw-down 'Oyster' stainless steel caseback. Hermetically sealed design requiring a specific Rolex tool to open.
Movement Type
Automatic, self-winding caliber (likely Cal. 1560 or 1570), 26 jewels, 19,800 or 28,800 BPH, approximately 42-48 hour power reserve.
Water Resistance
Originally 100m (330ft). In its current condition, water resistance must be assumed to be 0m until seals and crystal are verified.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made (Geneva). Features an in-house mechanical movement.
Age Estimate
Circa 1965-1975, based on the 'Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified' text alignment and baton hands.
Cultural Significance
Established the standard for the modern daily-wear luxury watch, proving that a high-end movement could live in a rugged, waterproof steel case without the need for additional complications.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor condition. The crystal is heavily crazed/cracked. The dial shows spotting and oxidation. The case and bezel are heavily scratched. The bracelet shows extreme stretch/sagging. Crown may require stem replacement.
Value Estimate
Market Value: $1,500 - $2,500 USD (in current condition). Fully restored examples can fetch $3,500+. The damaged dial and stretched bracelet significantly lower current resale value.
Care & Maintenance
Requires immediate full movement service. Do not submerge in water until gaskets are replaced. Acrylic crystal can be polished with Polywatch, but this specific one likely needs replacement due to deep cracks.
Similar Watches
Rolex Air-King 5500 (similar size, different text), Omega Seamaster 600 (manual wind competitor), Tudor Prince Oysterdate (similar case with date complication).
Interesting Facts
The '1002' was produced for over two decades and was often the entry-point into Rolex ownership, frequently gifted for corporate anniversaries or graduations mid-century.