Rolex Oyster 1069

Reference 1069, commonly known as the Rolex ‘El-Dorado’, is a rare, market-specific manual-wind model produced for a short period in the early 1960s. Its primary technical distinction is its two-material case construction, combining a stainless steel monobloc middle case with a solid 18k yellow gold bezel and winding crown. The gold bezel features a unique, finely ribbed texture. The watch is powered by a manual-wind movement, typically the Rolex Caliber 1210, a 17-jewel movement operating at 18,000 vph. The 34mm case is fitted with an acrylic crystal. Historically, this reference is significant for its association with the Venezuelan retailer Serpico y Laino, with many dials bearing a co-signature.