While doing my usual vintage watch hunting, I have managed to find this Rolex 6305-1 in 18k solid yellow gold. This watch is a fascinating piece of horological history that combines watchmaking excellence with political significance. The Rolex ref 6305-1 Big Bubbleback represents several important aspects:
Historical Significance:
- Given to President Eisenhower before its official 1953 launch
- Also presented to Winston Churchill
- Used as a powerful marketing tool showing world leaders as wearers
Technical Features:
- Cal.A296 bubble back movement
- Early Datejust model
- Distinctive red and black date wheel alternation
- 18k solid gold construction
Marketing Context:
- Positioned as Rolex's most advanced line in 1953
- Premium pricing due to solid gold construction
- Used in advertisements highlighting presidential ownership
- Demonstrated Rolex's strategy of associating with world leaders
The timing detail mentioned is particularly interesting - Eisenhower was photographed wearing it in July 1952, before the watch's official 1953 launch, indicating Rolex's strategic pre-release gifting to build anticipation and prestige.
This 18k rose gold 5305-1 was found in 2023.
Finally able to find another one in yellow gold to pair with the rose gold 6305-1
For those who is keen to get one, there is one at eBay now
The Rolex Big bubbleback series leading to the Datejust consists of the following
Rolex ref 4467 (solid Gold from year 1945-1949)
Rolex ref 5030 (Solid gold) , Bi colour steel and gold 5031, 5075, 6031 (from year 1949 - 1950)，
Rolex ref 6075, 6074 (Bi colour from year 1950 - 1953) also some 1960-64
Rolex 6104, 6105 (Bi colour modified A296，from year 1951 - 1953) some from the 1960s
Rolex 6304 , 6305 (Yellow & Rose gold), 6309 (Pre ThunderBird) (A296，from year 1953 - 1956)
Rolex Datejust 6604, 6605, 6609 (Thunderbird), 1600, 1601,1603, 1607, 1625 (Thunderbird) (from 1959 - 1977 onwards using Butterfly movement calibre generation features cal. 1065 and later cal. 1565 and 1575.)
Rolex ref 5030 (Solid gold) , Bi colour steel and gold 5031, 5075, 6031 (from year 1949 - 1950)，
Rolex ref 6075, 6074 (Bi colour from year 1950 - 1953) also some 1960-64
Rolex 6104, 6105 (Bi colour modified A296，from year 1951 - 1953) some from the 1960s
Rolex 6304 , 6305 (Yellow & Rose gold), 6309 (Pre ThunderBird) (A296，from year 1953 - 1956)
Rolex Datejust 6604, 6605, 6609 (Thunderbird), 1600, 1601,1603, 1607, 1625 (Thunderbird) (from 1959 - 1977 onwards using Butterfly movement calibre generation features cal. 1065 and later cal. 1565 and 1575.)
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