Bob’s Watches is relaunching its online auctions, beginning with a timed sale from September 8 to 14 featuring a collection of tropical dial Rolex sports watches from the 1960s and 70s.
The line up includes rare vintage Rolex Explorer, GMT-Master, Sea-Dweller and Submariner references.
Rolex ref. 1016 Explorer from 1966
The upcoming lot features a Rolex ref. 1016 Explorer from 1966. Originally black, the glossy dial aged to a rich brown, earning the timepieces an estimated value of $30,000 to $50,000.
Rolex ref. 1675 GMT-Master from 1969
Fans will find a Rolex ref. 1675 GMT-Master from 1969. The “Mark I, Long E” dial has changed from black to brown, paired with a fuchsia bezel.
It has an estimated value of $25,000 to $45,000.
Rolex ref.1665 “Double Red” Sea-Dweller, circa 1972
The Rolex ref.1665 “Double Red” Sea-Dweller, circa 1972, boasts a matte black “Mark II” dial that’s turning brown around the edges and the date window.
With a value estimated between $50,000 to $80,000, it is the most sought-after watch up for grabs.
Rolex ref. 1680 “Red” Submariner, from 1970
Also up for grabs is a Rolex ref. 1680 “Red” Submariner, from 1970, which comes with its original box and punched papers.
Its original black meter’s “Mark II” dial has turned completely brown, while the evenly faded bezel turned from black to greyish-blue.
It should fetch somewhere between $20,000 to $40,000.
“We are happy to offer these four, rare and beautiful watches with tropical dials,” says CEO and founder of Bob’s Watches, Paul Altieri.
“‘Tropical dial’ refers to when the dial’s color changes, and in this case the dials have gone from black to brown, which are highly sought after.”
