1964 Two-Tone Rolex Oyster Perpetual Reference 1003

Why This Watch Matters

This classic vintage piece features a fancy engined-turned gold bezel with a steel and gold riveted expandable bracelet.

The Full Story

The Oyster Perpetual design has been a fan favorite for decades because of its classic design. This steel and gold piece model was marketed as a dressier version to appeal to more elegant, sartorially minded individuals. Thanks to the cyclical style trend, the steel and gold two-tone designs have been recently picked up by fashion publications, and awoke a new generation of collectors interested in the two-tone trend. A thinner profile, including a flatter, two-tone riveted Oyster bracelet was clearly meant as a more subtle and elegant alternative to other bracelets Rolex was producing at the time.

The Fine Print

Maker: Rolex
Model: Oyster Perpetual
Reference: 1003, inside stamped 1005
Year: Circa 1964
Case No: 1127XXX
Material: Stainless steel and gold
Dimensions: 34mm diameter; 11mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Yes, tritium
Caliber: Rolex self-winding caliber 1560
Bracelet/Strap: Rolex steel and gold riveted expandable bracelet stamped “9” on the clasp and end links stamped “57”
Lug Width: 19mm
Box/Papers: N/A

What we Love and What You Should Know

Overall, the watch is in very good condition. The case shows some minor scratches and may have been lightly polished. The bracelet may have been lightly polished in the past, but is in very good condition; the links are still tight, which is a desirable quality for an expandable bracelet from this era. The dial is in very good condition without any noticeable blemishes or discoloration. The lume plots have aged well, with only some minor wear. In addition, the lume on the hands also shows nice aging more or less consistent with the color of the lume plots. The movement is in running condition at this time.