Rolex Oyster Speedking 5056

The Rolex Oyster Speedking ref. 5056 is a manually-wound wristwatch from the 1940s, showcasing the compact and durable characteristics of early Speedking models. This reference was produced during a time when Rolex was expanding its reputation for rugged and water-resistant wristwatches, particularly with its smaller Oyster offerings. The stainless steel case measures 30.5mm in diameter, paired with a smooth bezel, acrylic crystal, and a screw-down crown and caseback to maintain water resistance. Inside, the watch is powered by the Rolex Caliber 710, a hand-wound movement known for its reliability in time-only configurations. Dials were typically minimalist with silver or white finishes, featuring Arabic numerals or baton indices and slim hands, in keeping with wartime-era design cues. The lug-to-lug length measures approximately 36mm, and the lug width is 17mm, ensuring a balanced fit on the wrist. As one of the earlier Speedking models, the 5056 is appreciated by collectors for its historical placement in Rolex’s evolution and its clean, straightforward aesthetic.