1955 Rolex Chronograph Pre-Daytona (ref.6034)

This piece is a true collector, for a number of reasons. It's a rare reference 6034, 1955 Pre-Daytona chronograph, with a charming dial, big registers, and wonderful patina. This piece is also offered with an original Rolex Oyster Stretch Rivet bracelet that is is immaculate condition for its age. 

The Rolex chronograph was especially popular with drivers due to the presence of different colored tachymeter and telemeter markings, for measuring speed and distance respectively. The new Daytona no longer has the telemeter, and the tachymeter markings are now on the bezel instead of the face, giving this piece a more subtle look. At the 3, 6, and 9 markers three subsidiary dials display constant seconds, thirty-minute, and twelve-hour counters. This was also the watch LeRoy Neumayer was wearing when he broke the land speed record at 233 miles per hour. 

The caliber 72 mechanical movement contains 17 jewels and has a monometallic screw balance and an in-line escapement, with a manual movement. The choronograph function is utilized with the two round push buttons surrounding the crown.

The 6034 was offered in stainless steel, and 18k yellow or pink gold (the later of which Eric Clapton recently sold at auction). Both the watch movement and case are antimagnetic, and the screw down case back and crown are water resistant. 

Anyone with enough money can buy a Daytona, one of Rolex's most iconic watches, but the 6034 is what paved the way. This piece demonstrates a more thorough understanding of the chronogrpah and the history of Rolex itself.