Rolex Watch 68273 Overview
The Rolex Watch 68273, also known as the “Datejust” with a champagne dial, is a classic timepiece that embodies the brand’s renowned craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Introduced in 1945, the Datejust has been a cornerstone of the Rolex collection for over seven decades, consistently captivating watch enthusiasts worldwide.
The Rolex Watch 68273 features a distinctive design that seamlessly blends functionality and aesthetics. Its 36mm Oyster case, crafted from 18-karat yellow gold, exudes a luxurious aura. The champagne dial, adorned with Roman numeral hour markers, provides a sophisticated contrast against the gold case. The cyclops lens magnifies the date window at 3 o’clock, enhancing readability and adding a practical touch.
Design and Craftsmanship
The Rolex Watch 68273 embodies the brand’s commitment to precision and meticulous craftsmanship. The watch’s Oyster case, a hallmark of Rolex’s robust design, features a screw-down crown and case back, ensuring water resistance up to 100 meters (330 feet). The fluted bezel adds a touch of elegance and provides a secure grip for adjusting the time.
The watch is powered by the Rolex caliber 3135 automatic movement, a testament to the brand’s expertise in mechanical watchmaking. The movement features a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, offering exceptional resistance to shocks and magnetic fields. The self-winding mechanism ensures that the watch maintains accurate timekeeping without the need for manual winding.
Significance within the Rolex Collection
The Rolex Watch 68273 holds a significant place within the Rolex collection. It represents the quintessential Datejust, a model that has become synonymous with luxury, precision, and enduring style. Its timeless design and enduring popularity have solidified its status as a coveted timepiece among collectors and watch enthusiasts alike.
Technical Specifications
The Rolex Watch 68273, a classic timepiece, boasts impressive technical specifications that contribute to its enduring appeal and functionality. This section will delve into the key technical aspects of this Rolex model, providing a comprehensive understanding of its construction and capabilities.
Case and Dimensions
The case of the Rolex Watch 68273 is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. The case size is typically 36mm in diameter, a size that strikes a balance between elegance and practicality. The case thickness is approximately 11mm, providing a comfortable fit on the wrist. The lug width is 19mm, allowing for a wide range of strap options.
Movement
The Rolex Watch 68273 is powered by a self-winding mechanical movement, the caliber 2135. This movement is renowned for its precision and reliability, featuring a chronometer-certified performance. It has a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
Water Resistance
The Rolex Watch 68273 is designed for water resistance, with a rating of 100 meters (330 feet). This allows the watch to withstand everyday splashes and even short periods of immersion in water.
Crystal
The watch features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which provides excellent protection for the dial and hands. Sapphire crystal is known for its exceptional hardness and clarity, ensuring long-lasting visibility and resistance to scratches.
Dial and Hands
The Rolex Watch 68273 typically features a silver or black dial, depending on the specific model. The dial is adorned with Roman numeral hour markers and luminous hands, enhancing readability in various lighting conditions. The date display is positioned at the 3 o’clock position.
Bracelet, Rolex watch 68273
The Rolex Watch 68273 is often paired with a stainless steel Oyster bracelet, known for its comfort and durability. The bracelet features a folding clasp with a safety lock, ensuring a secure fit on the wrist.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Case Diameter | 36mm |
| Case Thickness | 11mm |
| Lug Width | 19mm |
| Movement | Caliber 2135, Self-winding Mechanical |
| Frequency | 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) |
| Power Reserve | Approximately 48 hours |
| Water Resistance | 100 meters (330 feet) |
| Crystal | Scratch-resistant Sapphire |
| Dial | Silver or Black (depending on model) |
| Bracelet | Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet |
Notable Features: Rolex Watch 68273
The Rolex Watch 68273 boasts a collection of features that contribute to its classic elegance and enduring appeal. These features, from the distinctive dial design to the robust construction, are hallmarks of Rolex craftsmanship.
Dial Design
The dial of the Rolex Watch 68273 is a testament to the brand’s commitment to clarity and readability. Its design prioritizes functionality, ensuring that the time is easily discernible at a glance.
The dial features a clean and uncluttered layout, with prominent hour markers and hands that stand out against the backdrop.
The hour markers are typically Roman numerals or diamond-shaped indices, depending on the specific model variation. The hands are crafted from polished metal and are often filled with luminous material for optimal visibility in low-light conditions. This combination of elements contributes to the watch’s overall legibility and aesthetic appeal.
Movement
The Rolex Watch 68273 is powered by a self-winding mechanical movement, renowned for its precision and reliability. This movement is meticulously engineered to provide accurate timekeeping, a hallmark of Rolex watches.
The movement is characterized by its robust construction, with a high-quality balance wheel and a carefully regulated escapement.
The self-winding mechanism ensures that the watch is constantly powered by the natural movement of the wearer’s wrist, eliminating the need for manual winding. This automatic winding feature enhances the convenience and practicality of the watch.
Case and Bracelet
The case of the Rolex Watch 68273 is typically crafted from stainless steel or a combination of stainless steel and gold, depending on the model variation. This choice of materials ensures durability and resistance to scratches and wear.
The case is characterized by its distinctive shape and the presence of a fluted bezel, a hallmark of Rolex design.
The bracelet is typically made from stainless steel or a combination of stainless steel and gold, matching the case material. The bracelet features a secure clasp and is designed for comfort and durability. The bracelet is often fitted with a polished finish, enhancing the watch’s overall elegance.
Water Resistance
The Rolex Watch 68273 is designed to withstand water pressure, making it suitable for various activities. The specific water resistance rating varies depending on the model, but it typically ranges from 100 meters to 300 meters.
The water resistance is achieved through a combination of factors, including the case design, the use of specialized gaskets, and the screw-down crown.
This water resistance feature ensures that the watch can withstand splashes, rain, and even shallow water activities.
Other Features
The Rolex Watch 68273 may also include other notable features, such as a date window, a cyclops lens, or a chronometer certification. These features enhance the functionality and overall appeal of the watch.
Historical Context
The Rolex Watch 68273, a quintessential example of Rolex’s dedication to precision and elegance, emerged during a period of significant change and innovation in the watchmaking industry. This era saw the rise of quartz technology, challenging the dominance of mechanical timepieces, and a growing demand for luxury watches that were both functional and stylish.
Rolex’s Response to Quartz Technology
The 1970s marked a pivotal period for the watchmaking industry. The advent of quartz technology, with its unparalleled accuracy and affordability, threatened the traditional mechanical watch. Rolex, known for its mechanical prowess, responded to this challenge by developing its own quartz movements. The Rolex Watch 68273, equipped with the Oysterquartz caliber, represented this strategic move by the brand.
Market Value and Collectibility
The Rolex Watch 68273, a vintage timepiece from the 1970s, has gained significant appreciation in the watch market, particularly among collectors. Its value is influenced by factors such as its condition, rarity, and desirability.
Factors Influencing Market Value
The current market value of the Rolex Watch 68273 can fluctuate based on several key factors:
- Condition: The watch’s condition plays a crucial role in its value. A pristine, unpolished example with original components commands a higher price than a watch that has been heavily worn or restored.
- Rarity: The Rolex Watch 68273, being a vintage model, is relatively rare. This scarcity contributes to its desirability and, consequently, its value.
- Desirability: The watch’s aesthetics, functionality, and historical significance influence its desirability among collectors. The Rolex Watch 68273, with its distinctive design and reliable movement, is highly sought after by vintage watch enthusiasts.
Collectibility and Potential for Appreciation
The Rolex Watch 68273 is considered a highly collectible watch, owing to its historical significance, limited production, and enduring popularity. Its potential for appreciation in value over time is significant, particularly for well-preserved examples.
“Vintage Rolex watches, especially those in excellent condition, have consistently shown strong appreciation in value over the years. The Rolex Watch 68273, with its unique features and limited production, is likely to continue this trend.” – [Name of a reputable watch expert or collector]
The watch’s value is likely to continue to rise as demand from collectors increases and the supply of well-preserved examples dwindles.
Comparison with Similar Models
The Rolex Watch 68273, with its unique combination of features and design, stands out amongst other Rolex models. However, understanding its place within the broader Rolex landscape requires a comparison with similar models. This allows for a more comprehensive appreciation of the 68273’s unique qualities and its position within the world of luxury watches.
Comparison Table
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of the Rolex Watch 68273 with similar models, highlighting key differences in design, features, and price.
| Model Name | Key Features | Price (Approximate) | Comparison Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rolex Watch 68273 | Datejust, 36mm, Oyster case, fluted bezel, silver dial, 18k yellow gold, Jubilee bracelet | $10,000 – $15,000 (depending on condition and year) | Classic Datejust with a timeless design and a combination of gold and steel. |
| Rolex Watch 16233 | Datejust, 36mm, Oyster case, smooth bezel, silver dial, 18k yellow gold, Jubilee bracelet | $8,000 – $12,000 (depending on condition and year) | Similar to the 68273 but with a smooth bezel, giving it a more understated look. |
| Rolex Watch 116233 | Datejust, 36mm, Oyster case, fluted bezel, silver dial, 18k yellow gold, Jubilee bracelet | $12,000 – $18,000 (depending on condition and year) | Modern version of the 68273, featuring a larger Cyclops lens and updated movement. |
| Rolex Watch 16234 | Datejust, 36mm, Oyster case, smooth bezel, silver dial, 18k yellow gold, Oyster bracelet | $9,000 – $13,000 (depending on condition and year) | Similar to the 16233 but with an Oyster bracelet, providing a more robust and sporty look. |
User Experience
The Rolex Watch 68273, a classic timepiece, offers a distinctive user experience that blends elegance, functionality, and durability. This section delves into the watch’s comfort, durability, and overall functionality, providing insights into what it’s like to wear and interact with this iconic piece.
Comfort and Wearability
The Rolex Watch 68273 is designed for comfort and ease of wear. The watch’s case size and weight are carefully balanced to ensure a comfortable fit on the wrist. The Oyster bracelet, known for its robust construction and secure clasp, contributes significantly to the watch’s comfort. The bracelet’s links are carefully engineered to distribute weight evenly, minimizing any potential discomfort. The smooth, polished surfaces of the case and bracelet further enhance the watch’s wearability, allowing it to glide effortlessly under clothing.
Durability and Reliability
Rolex watches are renowned for their exceptional durability and reliability. The Rolex Watch 68273 is no exception, built to withstand the rigors of daily wear. The watch’s robust construction, featuring a solid 18k gold case and sapphire crystal, provides excellent protection against scratches, dents, and other forms of damage. The Oyster case, with its waterproof and dustproof design, ensures that the watch remains protected even in challenging environments. The watch’s self-winding movement, a testament to Rolex’s engineering prowess, guarantees accurate timekeeping for years to come.
Functionality and Features
The Rolex Watch 68273 offers a range of practical and aesthetically pleasing features. The watch’s date window at the 3 o’clock position provides a quick and convenient way to keep track of the date. The luminous hands and hour markers enhance readability in low-light conditions. The watch’s unidirectional bezel, a hallmark of Rolex sport watches, allows divers to track elapsed time during underwater excursions. The watch’s self-winding mechanism eliminates the need for manual winding, ensuring that the watch always keeps accurate time.
Design and Aesthetics
The Rolex Watch 68273 is a classic example of Rolex’s timeless design philosophy. Its elegant lines, refined details, and overall visual appeal have made it a coveted timepiece for decades. The watch’s design embodies the brand’s commitment to functionality, durability, and aesthetic excellence.
Dial Design
The dial of the Rolex Watch 68273 is a key element of its aesthetic appeal. It features a clean and uncluttered design, with clear markers and hands that enhance readability. The dial is typically available in silver or black, with applied hour markers and a date window at the 3 o’clock position. The dial’s design contributes to the watch’s overall elegance and timelessness.
Hands
The hands of the Rolex Watch 68273 are another important design element. They are typically crafted from polished steel and feature a distinctive shape that enhances readability. The hands are designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, adding to the watch’s overall elegance.
Case Shape
The case of the Rolex Watch 68273 is a classic Oyster case, known for its durability and water resistance. The case is typically made from stainless steel or a combination of stainless steel and gold. The case shape is characterized by its rounded lugs, smooth bezel, and fluted crown. The Oyster case design contributes to the watch’s robust build and timeless aesthetic.
Overall Visual Appeal
The Rolex Watch 68273 is a visually stunning timepiece that exudes elegance and sophistication. Its clean lines, refined details, and overall design aesthetic make it a timeless classic. The watch’s design elements, including its dial, hands, case shape, and overall visual appeal, contribute to its desirability and enduring popularity.
Cultural Significance
The Rolex Watch 68273, like many other Rolex models, has become deeply embedded in popular culture, symbolizing luxury, status, and achievement. Its association with wealth and success has cemented its place as a coveted timepiece, not just for its functionality but also for the cultural capital it represents.
Association with Luxury and Status
The Rolex brand has cultivated an image of exclusivity and prestige, and the 68273 model embodies this. Its craftsmanship, materials, and design contribute to its high perceived value. The watch is often seen as a status symbol, worn by individuals seeking to convey their wealth and success.
Notable Figures and Events
The Rolex Watch 68273 has been worn by numerous notable figures throughout history, further solidifying its cultural significance.
- For example, actors, musicians, and athletes have been spotted wearing the 68273, contributing to its association with fame and achievement.
- The watch has also been featured in movies and television shows, further amplifying its cultural presence.
These associations have helped to create a narrative around the Rolex 68273, reinforcing its position as a coveted and culturally significant timepiece.
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