LIMITED EDITION ROLEX 18K YELLOW GOLD DATE QUARTZ WATCH "TEXAN", REF 5100 c1971

DESCRIPTION

Rare and impressive Rolex limited edition 18 Carat Solid Yellow Gold Date Beta-21 wristwatch, tonneau-shaped, the gilt matt dial with baton numerals, sweep centre seconds, magnified window for date, heavy 18K gold Rolex link bracelet and clasp.

This incredibly rare and unusual Limited Edition quartz Rolex was introduced in 1970 as reference 5100. The initial pilot series production was completely sold out prior to delivery: this was the first Rolex to have a sapphire crystal and the quick date change mechanism. It was also revolutionary for the new case design, more angular than the Oyster case.
The impressive gold weight (200 grams in total) and size (40 mm wide) made the model known as "Il Texano", "The Texan".
It was designed to be made in very limited quantities only, each case is hand-engraved with the limited edition number: the present is an early one, number 137 of only 1000 units in total.

The model was presented in 1970 at the Basel exhibition. This was the second and last instance in which Rolex produced a numbered series, referring to what they did in 1945 with the first 100 specimens of the Datejust ref. 4467 (for more info on this extremely rare watch please follow this link).

The present watch is in excellent condition, it comes with the original box and paperwork with warranty numbered 137 and dated 1971. It is extremely rare to find this watch complete of original box and papers.

Each part is Hallmarked Swiss 18 carat Gold, signed "ROLEX".

CONDITION

Great condition - with original box and paperwork. Wear and minor damages to the box. 

SIZE

Width:   40mm

Weight:   201.2g