Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6502

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual ref. 6502 is a mid-1950s automatic wristwatch that reflects Rolex’s transition into more modern and commercially focused timepieces. It featured a 34mm stainless steel or 18k gold case and was often offered with a smooth, fluted, or engine-turned bezel. The domed acrylic crystal, screw-down crown, and caseback were hallmark features of the waterproof Oyster architecture. Inside the case, the Rolex Caliber 1030 delivered a bi-directional winding system and approximately 42 hours of power reserve, marking an important advancement in the brand’s automatic movement development. The dial designs were typically classic and clean, with silver, champagne, or black finishes, applied baton or arrowhead markers, and dauphine hands. The watch had a lug-to-lug length of approximately 42mm and a lug width of 19mm, making it well-proportioned and versatile for different wrist sizes. Although the 6502 is not as frequently seen as some of its successors, it is appreciated for its period-correct design, solid movement, and representation of Rolex’s design ethos in the post-war years. Its combination of mechanical reliability and subtle elegance makes it a desirable piece for collectors of early Oyster Perpetual references.