Introduced in 1945 to celebrate Rolex's 40th anniversary, the Datejust changed the course of watchmaking. It became the world's first self-winding, waterproof chronometer wristwatch with an automatically changing date display—a feature we now take completely for granted.

While many Rolex models were created with pilots, divers, or racing drivers in mind, the Datejust was simply designed to be the perfect everyday watch. Eight decades later, that formula still works, making it one of the most enduring and successful wristwatches ever produced.

Rolex introduced reference 6605 in 1956, producing it until 1959. A true transitional model, it bridged the gap between the early Datejusts and the references that followed. It introduced the slimmer in-house calibre 1065, allowing Rolex to move away from the thicker "Bubbleback" profile while retaining the robustness for which the Oyster case had become famous. The 6605 also ranks among the earliest Datejust references to feature the now-familiar "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified" designation on the dial, together with the Cyclops magnifying lens that had made its debut just a year earlier.

The example offered here is a particularly handsome one. Its 36mm stainless steel Oyster case remains in lovely condition and is fitted with the elegant finely fluted 18k white gold bezel.

The real star of the show, however, is the dial. The beautifully aged cream-coloured pie-pan dial features an applied Rolex coronet, applied dagger hour markers, black printed text, the desirable "Swiss" designation at six o'clock, and elegant dauphine hands. Together, they create the warm, refined look that makes these mid-century Datejusts so appealing.

Adding another charming detail is the original roulette date disc, alternating red and black numerals—a small touch that never fails to put a smile on our faces.

The watch is paired with one of our own Bulang and Sons leather straps and has been fully serviced by our watchmaker, ready to be worn and enjoyed.

One look at that dial, and you'll understand why we love these early Datejusts!

Specifications:

Rolex Reference 6605 Datejust
36mm steel case, fine reeded 18k white gold bezel
Serial 415xxx dating to 1958
Cream coloured dial, signed Swiss only, applied Rolex logo, “dagger” hour markers
Dauphine hands
Roulette date wheel
Bulang and Sons leather strap
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping

Rolex Datejust 6605 Cream Swiss Only Dial Roulette Date

Rolex Datejust 6605 Cream Swiss Only Dial Roulette Date

Before/after