Rolex
1958 Rolex Chronograph Pre-Daytona (ref.6234)
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.
The caliber 72 mechanical movement contains 17 jewels and has a monometallic screw balance and an in-line escapement, with a manual movement. The chronograph function is utilized with the two round push buttons surrounding the crown.
Of course we love a Daytona, but the 6234 is what paved the way. This piece demonstrates a more thorough understanding of the chronograph and the history of Rolex itself.
| Stock # | RLXCG623458 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Chronograph (Pre- Daytona) | |
| Model | 6234 | |
| Serial | 38XXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | SS | |
| Dial | Matte White | |
| Millimeters | 36 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex Oyster Stretch |
CASE & BRACELET
The case of this early pre-Daytona model is excellent, only lightly polished with very light signs of wear. The twin-lock crown and the chronograph pump pushers remain original to the watch. The later U.S.A. made Rolex C+I rivet bracelet is stamped 74' and remains in remarkable condition showing very little stretch for its age.
DIAL & HANDS
The original dial of this early Rolex chronograph is breathtaking, the "telemeter" is located on the outside of the inner minute track in blue and black text which accents the blued hands of the subdials and sweep seconds hand in a most stylish fashion. The silver dial has achieved a consistent and charming patina within the minute track fading to a lovely light grey coloration. The radium lume plots are still visible, however, the lume itself has mostly degraded and glows briefly when viewed under UV Light. The original alpha style hands remain practically untouched with lume fully intact showing no degradation. The blue sweep seconds and blue subdial hands all remain original to the watch in excellent condition without corrosion.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch when placed on a timing scope runs flawlessly and it is keeping time perfectly but extended service history is unknown.