ROLEX Datejust 6105 Lefty 18k 1952s

As Rolex expanded into virtually every segment of the watch market, the company also introduced one of its most unusual and rarely seen services.

Recognizing that approximately ten percent of the world’s population is left-handed—and that many left-handed individuals preferred wearing their watches on the right wrist—Rolex offered specially ordered left-handed models from around the 1930s through the 1980s.

These watches were produced exclusively by special order. As a result, production records remain unclear, the exact range of references offered is largely undocumented, and surviving examples rarely appear on the open market.

Yet the technical solution itself was remarkably straightforward.

While the watch appears to be a mirror image of a standard model, the movement architecture remains fundamentally unchanged. The inner retaining ring that secures the dial feet features locating holes positioned opposite the conventional arrangement. By rotating the dial layout 180 degrees and incorporating specific dedicated components, Rolex was able to create a true left-handed configuration.

Because unique factory-made parts were required, distinguishing an authentic example from a later modification is generally straightforward. However, encountering an original factory-ordered piece is extraordinarily rare.

The present watch is the third-generation Datejust, Ref. 6105.

Produced before the downsized Ref. 6605 generation, it belongs to the era of wider cases and represents one of the most distinctive periods in early Datejust development.

This example is further elevated by its solid 18k gold case.

The dial carries the French-language “CHRONOMETRE” designation rather than the more familiar “OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED CHRONOMETER.” A configuration seldom encountered in today’s market.

The date wheel retains its original red alternating calendar display, while the hands and dial remain preserved in period-correct condition.

Inside beats the celebrated Caliber 745, introduced in 1952 and developed from the Caliber 740 first used in the original Datejust Ref. 4467 of 1945.

Adding another remarkable chapter to its history, this watch was sold at a Christie’s auction in November 2005.

A factory left-handed configuration. A solid 18k gold case. A rare French-market chronometer dial. A documented Christie’s provenance.

Individually, each detail is significant. Together, they create something far beyond an ordinary vintage Rolex.

A watch built for a select few, preserved across generations, and rarely encountered even among the most seasoned collectors.

- wrist size in our picture is 17cm circumference -