DrStrong's post highlights an Antiquorum auction showcasing the evolution of Rolex sports models, providing a valuable historical overview for collectors. The curated selection of vintage references offers a glimpse into the brand's iconic designs and their significance in watch history. This content remains a crucial resource for understanding the lineage and market appeal of classic Rolex timepieces.
On April 17th, Antiquorum will hold an auction sale of an amazing selection of Rolex watches to illustrate the evolution of the Rolex Sports models.
Here's a selection of some watches which will be presented, all photos courtesy of Paul Boutros:
Ref. 6285 with Cloisonné Dial

Oyster Chronograph "Pre-Daytona", Ref. 6234
"Jean-Claude Killy" Triple-Date Chronograph, Ref. 6236
Oyster Chronograph, Ref. 4537
Milgauss, Ref. 6541
Submariner, Ref. 6538
Submariner, Ref. 6200
Submariner, Ref. 6204
Submariner, Ref. 5512
"Padellone" Triple Date Moonphase, Ref. 8171
Triple Date Moonphase, Ref. 6062
Military Submariner, Ref. 5517
GMT-Master, Ref. 6542
Tiffany Double Red Sea-Dweller, Ref. 1665 Mark IV
Double Red Sea-Dweller, Ref. 1665 No Valve
Cosmograph Daytona, Ref. 6263
"Tiffany & Co" Cosmograph Daytona, Ref. 6263
Cosmograph Daytona "Paul Newman", Ref. 6241
COMEX Sea-Dweller, Ref. 16600
COMEX Submariner, Ref. 1680
Space-Dweller, Ref. 1016
Explorer "Black Out", Ref. 14270
Cosmograph Daytona "Color Change Dial", Ref. 16520
About the Automotive Daytona Ref. 6241
The Rolex Daytona reference 6241 is a manually wound chronograph, part of the early generation of Cosmograph Daytona models. It is distinguished by its acrylic bezel with a tachymeter scale, a feature that differentiates it from later references with metal bezels. This reference was produced for a relatively short period, contributing to its distinctiveness within the Daytona lineage.
This reference houses the Valjoux 722-1 caliber, a column-wheel chronograph movement. The case is typically 37mm in diameter, crafted from stainless steel or 18k yellow gold, with pump pushers for the chronograph functions. Dials were offered in various configurations, including silver or black, often with contrasting sub-dials, and some examples feature the 'Paul Newman' exotic dial.
For collectors, the reference 6241 is highly sought after due to its limited production run and the specific aesthetic of its acrylic bezel. Its connection to the early era of the Daytona, before the introduction of automatic movements, positions it as a significant piece for those interested in the historical development of Rolex's most famous chronograph.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Valjoux 722-1
- Case
- Stainless steel, 18k yellow gold
- Diameter
- 37mm
- Dial
- Silver, Black (with contrasting sub-dials)
- Water Resist.
- 50 meters
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Triple Calendar Moonphase Ref. 6062
The Rolex Cellini Moonphase, reference 50535, represents a distinct departure from Rolex's professional tool watch offerings, positioning itself as a sophisticated dress watch within the Cellini collection. Introduced in 2017, it marked Rolex's return to the moon phase complication after decades, drawing aesthetic inspiration from historical references such as the 6062 "Stelline" and 8171 "Padellone."
Crafted in 39mm Everose gold, Rolex's proprietary rose gold alloy, the case features a fluted bezel and a flared crown. The white lacquer dial is complemented by applied Everose gold hour markers and hands. A blue enameled sub-dial at 6 o'clock displays the moon phase, featuring a meteorite appliqué for the full moon. The watch is powered by the self-winding Caliber 3195, a manufacture movement with a patented moon phase module accurate for 122 years, a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, and Paraflex shock absorbers.
This reference offers collectors a blend of traditional watchmaking aesthetics with modern Rolex precision and reliability. Its limited production and understated presence in the market appeal to those seeking a distinctive Rolex timepiece that stands apart from the brand's more ubiquitous sports models, embodying a discreet luxury.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 3195
- Case
- Everose gold
- Diameter
- 39mm
- Dial
- White lacquer
- Water Resist.
- 50 meters
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Rolex Submariner Ref. 6200
Rolex Submariner Reference 6200
The Rolex Submariner reference 6200 represents an early iteration within the Submariner No Date series. Produced during 1954-1955, this reference features a 37mm case size and incorporates the essential diving watch elements of a rotating unidirectional bezel and 200-meter water resistance. The black dial configuration provides the foundational aesthetic that would characterize the series.
The 37mm stainless steel case houses the automatic caliber A.260 movement, offering a 42-hour power reserve. An acrylic crystal protects the black dial, while the rotating unidirectional bezel provides the timing functionality. The watch is completed with a steel bracelet, maintaining material consistency throughout the construction.
This reference appeals to collectors focused on early Submariner iterations and those interested in the technical specifications of 1950s Rolex production. The brief production window of 1954-1955 and the specific caliber A.260 movement distinguish this reference within the broader Submariner catalog. The 37mm case size and acrylic crystal reflect the manufacturing standards of the mid-1950s period.
Specifications
- Caliber
- A.260
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 37 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Submariner Ref. 6204
The Rolex Submariner reference 6204 represents the inaugural reference in the Submariner series, produced during 1953-1954. This reference established the foundational specifications for the model line with its 37mm stainless steel case and rotating unidirectional aluminum bezel configuration.
The watch features a stainless steel case measuring 37mm in diameter, fitted with an acrylic crystal and black dial. Water resistance is rated to 100 meters. The automatic A.260 caliber provides 42 hours of power reserve. The watch is paired with an Oyster bracelet.
Reference 6204 appeals to collectors focused on early Submariner production, particularly those seeking the original case proportions and movement specification. The brief two-year production window and position as the series opener distinguishes this reference within Submariner collecting circles. The 37mm case size and A.260 caliber represent the baseline technical specifications that defined this initial offering.
Specifications
- Caliber
- A.260
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 37 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 100m/330ft
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Pre-Daytona Chronograph Ref. 6234
Rolex Pre-Daytona Chronograph Reference 6234
The reference 6234 represents Rolex's Pre-Daytona chronograph offering produced between 1963 and 1969. This steel series model preceded the brand's later Daytona line, featuring a fixed tachymeter bezel configuration. The 6234 occupied a specific position within Rolex's chronograph range during the mid-1960s period.
The watch features a 37mm stainless steel case fitted with an acrylic crystal and offers 50-meter water resistance. The manual-winding Valjoux 72 caliber provides the chronograph function with a 45-hour power reserve. The timepiece is completed with a steel bracelet, maintaining material consistency throughout the construction.
Reference 6234 appeals to collectors focused on pre-Daytona chronograph references and those seeking Rolex's 1960s chronograph production. The Valjoux 72 movement and 37mm proportions reflect the technical and sizing standards of the era. This reference serves collectors interested in Rolex chronographs from the transitional period before the Daytona designation was introduced.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Valjoux 72
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 37 mm
- Water Resist.
- 50m
- Crystal
- Acrylic