1966 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Reference 1013 With Original Papers

Why This Watch Matters

The reference 1013 is the best kept secret among vintage Rolex, especially if you don’t like a date but don’t mind a bit of gold.

The Full Story

The Rolex references 1012, 1013, 1016 and 1018 offer the same 36mm diameter as a regular Datejust, but none feature a date window. While the 1016 and 1018 were made solely in stainless steel, the references 1012 and 1013 came in solid gold, either yellow or rose. The logic behind having 2 separate references is actually similar to the phenomenon observed with the Datejust: the 1012 has a smooth bezel while the 1013 boasts the famous fluted bezel. Both references lived in the shadow of the more well-known Datejust when they were produced, and are therefore extremely rare to come by. This watch works magically on the wrist, and the original papers are the icing on the cake.

The Fine Print

Maker: Rolex
Model: Oyster Perpetual
Reference: 1013
Year: Circa 1966
Case No: 1368296
Material: 18k yellow gold
Dimensions: 36mm diameter; 11mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Tritium
Caliber: Automatic caliber 1570
Bracelet/Strap: Rolex Jubilee bracelet in 18k yellow gold
Lug Width: 20mm
Box/Papers: Original papers and booklet

What we Love and What You Should Know

This 1013 exhibits an outstanding dial, with a sumptuous, brushed silvery finish that does not show any visible imperfections. In addition, all the lume plots are present and whole. Similarly, the case has been extremely well preserved, and still shows sharp and thick lugs. The yellow-gold Jubilee bracelet comes with a bit of stretch, but nothing excessive for a 50-year-old watch. Lastly, this rare watch comes with its original papers and booklet.