Rolex GMT 1963 'Double Swiss' Dial Discussion

mstt · 2018-08-23T00:57:53Z

Explore the rare Rolex GMT 1963 'Double Swiss' dial with mstt. Experts debate its tritium print and period correctness, offering insights on vintage Rolex authenticity.

mstt

WPS member · Rolex forum

31 replies4622 views5 photos

Mstt introduces a fascinating Rolex GMT 1963 with a 'Double Swiss' dial, seeking expert opinions from the WatchProSite community. This post delves into the intricate details of vintage Rolex dials, highlighting the complexities and nuances that make these pieces highly sought after and often debated among collectors.

I came across this forum by accident, and so glad i did. It seems to be populated by experts with proper knowledge in their respective fields. I would love to ask your opinion of a Rolex GMT 1963 that i just purchased. I have attached some pictures, but will send more shortly once i take delivery of the watch. I have only seen one other with a similair dial configuration and was wondering if you could give me your opinion. I would also like to purchase a period correct strap/bracelett, that i'm sure is not going to be easy! Possibly someone has one or are able to recommend someone who may have. Thanks guys!

This is the only other i have seen. Obviously far better condition

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Key Points from the Discussion

The 'Double Swiss' signature on a Rolex dial refers to a second 'SWISS' text located at the lower edge of the dial, a rare variation that distinguishes certain vintage models.
For a 1963 Rolex GMT, the presence of a tritium print on the dial alongside a 'Double Swiss' signature is unusual, as 1963 is typically considered a pre-tritium period, leading to questions about its originality and configuration.
Identifying the correct hands for a vintage Rolex GMT is crucial; the example shown by the original poster has correct hands, while a comparative example had a short minute hand.
Finding a period-correct bracelet for a 1963 Rolex GMT, such as a '63 or '64 Swiss rivet, can be expensive, potentially costing $2,000-$3,000.
Fixing the lume on vintage hands is a common dilemma for collectors, with the general advice being to leave it as is to preserve originality, assuming the watch keeps reasonable time.
Sharing the serial number of a vintage Rolex can provide crucial details for experts to offer more precise insights into its configuration and authenticity.

The Discussion

Baron - Mr Red

Aug 23, 2018

.....this dial confuses me a bit. From 1963, that is a pre-tritium period, yet it has the tritium print on the dial. I would have expected just a single Swiss on that dial. The typical double swiss, as you know, doesn't have that tritium. So, since I have never seen one of these before and am also not sure how a tritium marker can appear on a 1963 GMT, then i will leave it to anyone else who has an insight. With Rolex, especially in this era, one cannot rule out anything. I, too, am curious to h

reintitan

Aug 23, 2018

le-monde-edmond.com

mstt

Aug 23, 2018

Thanks so much, i did get the comparative picture from this site. I found another that was very informative too.........

S F

Aug 23, 2018

I did come across a similar dial config and PCG from 1963 in the 1.1 mil serial range. Perhaps if you could share the serial, that may add more details for others to chip in on what they know/think. Cheers!

Bill

Aug 23, 2018

the second swiss is lower edge of the dial. Mine below and another example below that. Congratulations - Also yours has the correct hands the example you showed that was in good condition has a short minute hand and as it is matching the set. Regarding the bracelet it should not be hard to find but be ready to pay the price if you want a a 63 or 64 swiss rivet. 2-3k

mstt

Aug 23, 2018

Thanks for your response. The serial is 1005000

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Rolex GMT 1963 'Double Swiss' Dial Discussion

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