Rolex Oyster Chronograph Triple Calendar Ref. 6036 "Jean-Claude Killy"
Complications Watch (Chronograph with Triple Calendar) · Rolex (Rolex SA), Luxury Tier, globally renowned for precision and robust tool watches
Period: Vintage (1950s) Tool and Complication Watch Era
Type
Complications Watch (Chronograph with Triple Calendar)
Brand
Rolex (Rolex SA), Luxury Tier, globally renowned for precision and robust tool watches
Movement
Manual-wind chronograph movement, Valjoux 72c base heavily modified by Rolex, 18,000 vph, approx. 46-hour power reserve, 17 jewels
Dimensions
Case diameter: 36 mm, case thickness: 13.5 mm, lug-to-lug distance: 43 mm, lug width: 20 mm
Description
An exceptionally rare and historically significant vintage Rolex chronograph featuring a triple calendar complication. Often associated with legendary Olympic skier Jean-Claude Killy, this masterpiece of mid-century watchmaking combines the ruggedness of an Oyster case with the delicate complexity of a calendar chronograph, making it one of the most coveted collector pieces in horological history.
Key Features
Triple calendar apertures for day and month below the 12 o'clock marker, outer blue date track with a dedicated pointer hand, three register chronograph layout, and a robust waterproof Oyster case housing a Valjoux 72c based movement
Dial Description
Off-white matte dial featuring applied gold pyramid and Arabic numeral indices (with prominent 12), dauphine hands, a red central chronograph seconds hand, triple calendar display with day and month windows beneath the 12 o'clock marker, an outer blue pointer date track, three chronograph subdials, and a moon phase or 12-hour register layout
Case Material
Stainless steel with polished bezel and brushed case sides
Crystal Type
Domed acrylic (hesalite) crystal
Bezel Details
Fixed smooth polished stainless steel bezel
Crown & Pushers
Signed screw-down Rolex crown with Twinlock system, accompanied by pump-style chronograph pushers and inset calendar correctors on the case flanks
Bracelet or Strap
Vintage-style stainless steel expansion bracelet of the period with folding clasp
Caseback Details
Solid screw-down stainless steel case back with interior Rolex markings and reference numbers
Movement Type
Manual-wind chronograph movement, Valjoux 72c base heavily modified by Rolex, 18,000 vph, approx. 46-hour power reserve, 17 jewels
Water Resistance
Originally water-resistant via the Oyster case, but due to vintage age and lack of modern gaskets, this watch should be considered strictly non-water-resistant today
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made, manufactured in Geneva, Switzerland with an outsourced Valjoux base movement heavily customized by Rolex
Age Estimate
Circa 1951-1953 (Ref. 6036 production era)
Cultural Significance
Represents the pinnacle of mid-century vintage Rolex collecting, proving that the brand excelled far beyond simple dive watches and time-only pieces into high horology complications. They routinely command massive figures at international high-end watch auctions.
Condition Notes
Very good vintage condition. The stainless steel case shows minor wear and polishing consistent with age. The dial exhibits light, charming patina and aging. Hands and markers show original coloration. All complications function as expected, but professional mechanical inspection is advised.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges significantly from $150,000 to upwards of $400,000+ depending heavily on metal type, exact reference, dial originality, and provenance at major auction houses
Care & Maintenance
Requires delicate handling due to vintage nature and lack of modern shock resistance. Service intervals every 3 to 5 years by an expert vintage watchmaker. Keep strictly away from moisture and water as original gaskets have degraded.
Similar Watches
Rolex Dato-Compax Ref. 6036, Rolex Ref. 4768, Patek Philippe Reference 1518, and Universal Genève Tri-Compax
Interesting Facts
Famously nicknamed the "Killy" because French alpine ski legend Jean-Claude Killy wore a similar Rolex chronometer reference during his career and as an honorary board member for the brand. These models represent some of the most complicated wristwatches Rolex ever produced in series during the mid-20th century.