Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1012

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual ref. 1012 is a relatively uncommon mid-century reference produced primarily in the late 1950s and 1960s. It features a 34mm case made of stainless steel or gold, following Rolex’s classic Oyster case design with a screw-down crown, screw-down caseback, and domed acrylic crystal. Inside, it houses the Rolex Caliber 1530 or occasionally the earlier 1030, both automatic movements known for their durability, smooth operation, and power reserves around 42 hours. The 1012 offered simple dial configurations, typically with applied baton indices, dauphine or stick hands, and a central sweeping seconds hand. Dial tones ranged from silver to champagne, and some examples featured radium or tritium lume plots. With a 41mm lug-to-lug length and a 19mm lug width, the 1012 presented a balanced profile suitable for both formal and everyday wear. Due to its lower production numbers and transitional nature between earlier and later Oyster Perpetual models, the ref. 1012 has become an intriguing niche collectible for vintage Rolex enthusiasts seeking subtle design, solid mechanics, and historical continuity.