Rolex
1958 Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph (Ref. 6609) 18K YG "Thunderbird"
Do you know why the Rolex Turn-O-Graph Datejust has the nickname the "Thunderbird"? The Name Thunderbird comes from the late 1950s, at the dawn of the Jet Age. The United States Air Force equipped the Thunderbird's aerobatic flight demonstration team with the 18k Rolex Turn-O-Graph watches for navigational timing & calculations. The Rolex Ref. 1625 Tun-O-Graph models worn by the Thunderbirds team members were made from 18K solid yellow gold and featured the Thunderbirds logo at the 6 o'clock position on the dial.
The Rolex Turn-O-Graph is quite an interesting piece because it is also alongside the Submariner and GMT one of the first "tool" watches made by Rolex. In fact, the Rolex Turn-O-Graph was first launched by Rolex in 1953 the same year that the Rolex Submariner was introduced, and the GMT was introduced a year later in 1954. The Rolex Turn-O-Graph is considered a tool watch due to the fact that it has a rotating bezel that allows the person who wears the watch to rotate the bezel to time different events.
Stock # | RLXDJTOG6609 | |
Brand | Rolex | |
Style | Datejust "Turn-O-Graph" | |
Model | 6609 | |
Serial | 38XXXX | |
Size | Men's | |
Material | 18K YG | |
Dial | Champagne "Pie-Pan" | |
Millimeters | 36 | |
Bracelet | Rolex "Gay Freres" 18K YG Oyster Rivet Bracelet W/ 76 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The excellent 18K yellow gold case has been lightly polished in the past, retaining strong and thick lugs that remain even in presence. The 18K yellow gold bezel remains in wonderful unpolished condition and is achieving a nice rosy patina. The 18K yellow gold Rolex Oyster rivet "Gay Freres" bracelet with 76 end pieces was sourced with the watch and retains 12 links that show little wear, minimal stretch from use, and will fit up to a 7 1/2-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The rare and original non-luminous champagne "pie-pan" dial features unique concentric finishing and is beautifully preserved, remaining bright in coloration with light signs of aging present. The dagger-style markers remain flawless and create a striking and unique presence to the dial. The original alpha hands also remain in exceptional condition, with no signs of oxidation.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.