Rolex - A Gentleman's Silver Pocket Watch c.1919

A superb early silver pocket watch by Rolex. Presented in excellent condition and working order.

Not a lot of people know this but Rolex has its origin in London, where Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis established the company in 1905. Rolex remained there until postwar high government taxes forced them to relocate to Geneva in 1919. During these formative years, a strong working relationship was built with Alfred Lufkin Dennison, whose initials, A.L.D., can be found on the those early Rolexes. This is also true on this pocket watch, as Dennison was the case maker.

While "Rolex" was not yet a byword among luxury watch brands, the company omitted their name from what is a pristine and understated classic enamel dial. That's not to say that the company wasn't proud of their work, but it was simply a marketing decision while they were still an obscure brand. Needless to say, the watch here looks phenomenal with the pearling decoration, and the movement bears the "Rolex" name together with other details. It is working well and keeping excellent time.

Fully assayed and hallmarked in Birmingham, which is correct for the silversmith's address, this Rolex is a touch heavier than many similar gentlemen's watches of the period, leaving a great tactile experience in the hand, showing only very minor signs of former pocket carry and just a hint of age patina. Even the flat crystal glass appears to be an excellent original.

A lovely collector grade Rolex backed up by our 12 month warranty.

Code: 51872