Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6023

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual ref. 6023 is a transitional automatic watch introduced in the late 1940s, representing Rolex’s evolution in self-winding technology and waterproof case architecture. It features a 34mm Oyster case in stainless steel or gold, complete with a domed acrylic crystal, screw-down caseback, and screw-down crown. The movement inside is the Rolex Caliber 645, a reliable bi-directional automatic caliber with an approximate 42-hour power reserve, signaling Rolex’s commitment to improving mechanical efficiency and precision. Dial configurations included silver and cream tones, often with applied indices or Arabic numerals, dauphine hands, and radium lume on select variants. The watch has a lug-to-lug distance of approximately 42mm and a lug width of 19mm, providing a proportionate fit for vintage wearers. The 6023 helped solidify the design and performance standards for future Oyster Perpetual watches, offering robust construction with understated styling. Although less frequently seen than later references, it is valued by collectors for its historical context and as an example of Rolex’s post-war advancement in horology.