Rolex. A very fine, rare and attractive 18K gold automatic wristwatch with sweep centre seconds, date and black gloss dial

In production from 1956 to 1959, reference 6609 is the second model of the Datejust Turn-o-Graph line. This line of timepieces consists essentially in Datejust models fitted with a revolving bezel, allowing for a very basic chronographic function “activated” by aligning the 0 mark of the bezel with the minute hand at the moment one wants to start counting time. Elapsed time can be subsequently read on the bezel.
Reference 6609 will become universally known to the collectors’ community as “Thunderbird” due to its appearance on an advertisement as the official timepiece of the American acrobatic squadron – the Thunderbirds.

The present piece is highlighted by a very rare and wonderfully preserved black gloss dial, in lieu of the usual white matte dial, and its overall superior condition, noticeable especially on the bezel: all the engravings and details appear to be absolutely crisp and unmolested. The brevet case and original brevet crown are the final touches to this absolutely honest, highly collectible and downright iconic timepiece.