Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 6535

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 6535 is a rare and highly collectible mid-century model produced briefly during the late 1950s. It shares much of its architecture with the more common ref. 6534 but is distinguished by its engine-turned bezel, giving it a more utilitarian and sporty aesthetic. The watch features a 34mm stainless steel Oyster case, domed acrylic crystal with a Cyclops date magnifier, and Rolex’s patented screw-down crown and caseback for water resistance. Inside is the Rolex Caliber 1035, a chronometer-grade automatic movement known for its reliability and performance, offering a power reserve of around 42 hours. The dial designs were typically conservative, with silver or black finishes, applied baton or dagger-style hour markers, and dauphine hands, all reflective of 1950s Rolex design language. The lug-to-lug span is approximately 41mm with a lug width of 19mm, giving the watch a balanced wrist presence. Produced in relatively small numbers compared to its siblings, the 6535 holds appeal for collectors seeking a vintage Date model with subtle but distinctive traits, especially its unique bezel design.