Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6303

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual ref. 6303 is a rare and distinctive reference produced during the mid-1950s, notable for its unique two-tone case construction and larger case size for the period. The 6303 featured a 36mm stainless steel case paired with an 18k yellow gold bezel, typically either fluted or engine-turned, and a matching gold crown. It was powered by the Rolex Caliber 1030, one of Rolex’s earliest bi-directional automatic movements, offering approximately 42 hours of power reserve and known for its durability and precision. The dial options were classic and clean, often seen in silver, champagne, or white tones with applied gold baton or dagger hour markers and dauphine hands, all protected under a domed acrylic crystal. With a lug-to-lug measurement of around 44mm and a lug width of 19mm, the 6303 wore slightly larger than typical Oyster Perpetual models of its time, making it more substantial on the wrist. Its two-tone design and relatively uncommon case size make it a compelling example of Rolex’s experimentation with dressier yet practical Oyster references during the 1950s. Today, the ref. 6303 is considered an uncommon and desirable piece among vintage collectors, appreciated for its bold design and mechanical integrity.