DrStrong presents a stunning photo report from the 2014 '100% Passion' gathering in Amsterdam, a premier event for vintage Rolex enthusiasts. His post immerses readers in a world of rare and exceptional timepieces, from Daytona chronographs to tropical dial Submariners, offering a visual feast for collectors.
Thanks to Philipp and Berhnard, the 2014 editiion of 100% Passion was a blast !
An opportunity to meet again friends from all over the world and share our passion for vintage Rolex.
Here are a couple of pictures:
Vintage Rolex chronographs...
....and of course the Tudor cousins !
A 6239 with prototype dial and a 6239 albino...Wow !
My friend Jay with a handfull of Comex
Rosse's great Homeplate
A gorgeous 6234
Another shot of the 6239 albino
A stunning gilt 1016 with tropical dial
Tudor and Rolex Submariners with tropical dials
...and even more tropical beauties !
A stunning trio of Milgauss
...a bunch of Stella dials...
An early double swiss 6239 with underline and tropical subdials...
A 5513 with Explorer dial
A gold 6239 with prototype dial
An extraordinary Milgauss...
A 6542 with tropical gilt dial
...more to come...
This message has been edited by DrStrong on 2014-09-08 04:52:54 This message has been edited by DrStrong on 2014-09-08 08:05:24 This message has been edited by DrStrong on 2014-09-12 00:06:37
About the Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016
The reference 1016 is a notable iteration of the Explorer model, recognized for its robust design and clear legibility. It represents a period of consistent design language for the Explorer line, maintaining core aesthetic principles while incorporating incremental technical refinements. This reference is particularly distinguished by its long production run, allowing for various dial and case nuances across its manufacturing years.
This reference features a 36 mm stainless steel Oyster case, providing a durable and functional enclosure for the automatic caliber 1570 movement. The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 42-48 hours. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal, contributing to its vintage appeal and period-correct specifications. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters, underscoring its design for practical use.
For collectors, the reference 1016 holds interest due to its enduring design and the variations found within its production. Different dial types, such as gilt and matte, are observed, each appealing to specific collecting preferences. Its straightforward time-only display and tool-watch aesthetic make it a representative example of the Explorer series' foundational principles.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 1570
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 36 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 100m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 1680
The Rolex Submariner reference 1680 is notable as the first Submariner model to feature a date complication, marking a significant evolution for the line. Introduced in the late 1960s, it bridged the gap between the earlier no-date Submariners and later iterations, offering enhanced functionality while retaining the robust characteristics of the professional tool watch. This reference is distinguished by its single cyclops date magnifier on the crystal, a feature that would become a hallmark of many subsequent Rolex models.
This reference typically features a 40mm steel case, housing the self-winding Caliber 1575 movement. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The crystal is acrylic, commonly referred to as Plexiglas, contributing to its vintage aesthetic. Water resistance for the 1680 is rated at 200 meters, consistent with its design as a reliable underwater instrument.
For collectors, the reference 1680 is highly sought after, particularly early examples with "Red Submariner" dials where the word "Submariner" is printed in red. These variants represent a distinct period in Rolex's production history and are prized for their rarity and aesthetic appeal. The 1680 appeals to those who appreciate the blend of historical significance, functional design, and the tangible qualities of vintage Rolex manufacturing.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal.1575
- Case
- steel
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- black
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic (Plexiglas)
About the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513
The Rolex Submariner reference 5513 is a specific iteration within the Submariner model line. This reference is recognized by collectors for its particular configuration and production period.
The case and movement details for this specific reference are not provided in the input facts. Therefore, no description of the case material, crystal type, or movement architecture can be offered.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in the Submariner line. Its position within the broader Rolex catalog is defined by its reference number and the characteristics associated with that specific production.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Rolex Caliber 1520 / 1530
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Black (Gilt or Matte)
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Ref. 5514
The Rolex Submariner reference 5514 is a specialized variant of the Submariner line, produced exclusively for COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises), a French industrial deep-sea diving company. This reference is distinguished by its unique helium escape valve, integrated into the left side of the case, a feature not found on standard Submariner models of its era. It represents a purpose-built tool watch designed for professional saturation divers, setting it apart from other Submariner references intended for broader commercial release. Its limited production and specific client make it a notable piece within the brand's history of professional watches.
The case of the reference 5514 is crafted from stainless steel, typically measuring 40mm in diameter. It houses an automatic movement, likely the Rolex Caliber 1520 or 1530, known for its robustness and reliability. The watch is fitted with a Plexiglas crystal, consistent with Rolex sports models from the mid-20th century, providing durability and ease of maintenance in demanding environments. The helium escape valve is a key technical modification, allowing accumulated helium to escape during decompression without damaging the watch crystal.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in specialized Rolex tool watches and those with a focus on professional diving equipment. Its association with COMEX and the presence of the helium escape valve make it a distinct and highly sought-after model. Variants often include dials with the COMEX logo, further emphasizing its unique provenance. The 5514 occupies a specific niche, representing a period when Rolex collaborated directly with professional organizations to develop watches tailored for extreme conditions.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 1520/1530
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Plexiglass
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