Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref. 15000 - Gloss Black Dial

If you boil Rolex down to its purest form, what do you get? The Rolex Oyster Perpetual. This is truly the genesis for the entire Rolex brand. The very first Rolex models were called ‘Oysters’ which was owed to their innovative three part case that all screwed into each-other. That is where the fluted bezel actually derives from, being screwed down into the top of the case to secure the crystal with a gasket - as well as the grooves on the oyster case back. All makes sense now - right? The piece that we have here, simply known as an Oyster Perpetual Date, is a descendant of those early watches, utilizing a water-resistant Oyster case, an automatic-winding movement, and a date complication. A functional, sturdy, and dependable timekeeping device. Dating to circa 1985, this Reference 15000 features a 34mm Oyster case with a smooth steel bezel and it's correct solid-link Oyster bracelet with a blade clasp. Each show normal, uniform wear and present beautifully. signs of wear otherwise. Inside, the dial is as nice as they come, remaining in seemingly-flawless condition with the areas around the date aperture and applied indices showing none of the common flaking or degradation. The gloss black surface is clean and retains that very attractive 'wet' appearance and the Tritium plots are fully-intact and show attractive, rich patina. The handset also matches perfectly. This piece presents great value next to its slightly larger Datejust siblings, while simultaneously representing the essence of Rolex.