This is a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref.1008 from the 1960s, known among collectors as the "Zephyr", here with a champagne dial.
The Zephyr dial has no minute track around its edge, only luminous dot markers. At first glance that looks hard to read. In practice the cross line dividing the dial into quarters and the Zephyr's own bezel, cut with distinctive notches, give the eye clear reference points, and the watch reads easily. It is a carefully thought-out design.
Rolex fitted several types of hands to this model. This watch carries pointed gold alpha hands, a type found only up to the mid-1960s, and the one we like best.
The model is said to have been made for the American market, and it remains something of an insider's Rolex. Serious Rolex collectors still seek it out today. For anyone looking for a Rolex a step away from the familiar references, it is well worth a close look.
- wrist size in our picture is 17cm circumference -
Specifications
Specifications and condition
Brand
ROLEX
Ref.
1008
Year
1960s
CONDITION
good overall condition, showing traces of use.
DIAL
champagne "Zephyr" dial with cross line and luminous dot indices
gold alpha hands
STRAP & BUCKLE
Rocotte greige crocodile-grain leather strap fitting up to 18.5cm (not original to the watch)
19mm lug width
CASE
Stainless steel with 14K yellow gold engine-turned "Zephyr" bezel
34.5mm(excluding crown) / 42mm(lug to lug)
MOVEMENT
Automatic Cal.1570, 26 jewels, 19,800 vph
Superlative Chronometer
BOX & PAPERS
"PRINCIPE PRIVÉ" certificate of authenticity documentation card
