Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6101

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual ref. 6101 is a vintage automatic model introduced in the early 1950s, representing a continuation of Rolex’s refinement of its waterproof and self-winding timepieces. Featuring a 34mm case crafted in stainless steel or gold, the 6101 maintained the brand’s signature Oyster architecture with a screw-down crown, domed acrylic crystal, and smooth bezel. It houses the Rolex Caliber 645, a bi-directional self-winding movement known for its robustness and approximately 42-hour power reserve. Dials were offered in standard mid-century configurations, often silver or champagne in color, with applied hour markers, dauphine hands, and radium lume elements for visibility. The lug-to-lug distance is approximately 42mm, with a lug width of 19mm, giving the watch balanced proportions on the wrist. Though relatively obscure among the broader Rolex lineup, the 6101 is appreciated by vintage collectors for its mechanical dependability and clean, restrained design during a transformative period for the brand. It stands as a quiet but important piece within the lineage of Oyster Perpetual models that laid the groundwork for Rolex’s modern catalog.