Rolex Oyster 3009

The Rolex Oyster reference 3009 is a manual-wind watch produced in the early 1940s, with examples commonly dated to circa 1942. This reference is historically significant due to its association with the “Army” and “Everest” model names, suggesting it was marketed towards individuals requiring a robust and reliable timepiece for demanding environments. Produced during World War II, the 3009 embodies the durability and functionality that Rolex was becoming renowned for. Its modest size was typical for military and field watches of the era, prioritizing practicality and resilience. The reference 3009 was cased in stainless steel and featured a screw-down crown and case back, hallmarks of the Rolex “Oyster” system. Variations of this model include different dial colors, such as salmon and two-tone silver, often with Arabic numerals for legibility. The hands could be of the “Baton” or “Mercedes” style. The association with the “Army” and “Everest” names, though not always present on the dial, adds to the watch’s collectibility and historical narrative, linking it to a period of military history and exploration.