Rolex Cocktail Watch 'Art Deco' Carl Bucherer

Rolex Cocktail Watch 'Art Deco' Carl Bucherer

Watches like this remind us that Rolex has always been capable of far more than the professional sports watches for which it is best known. It is a true pleasure to offer this spectacular example from the golden age of mid-century jewellery design.

During the 1950s, Rolex occasionally ventured into the refined world of haute joaillerie, creating extraordinary ladies' watches in which mechanical watchmaking and precious jewellery became inseparable. Produced in comparatively small numbers, these pieces reveal a more creative and glamorous side of the manufacture, intended for a clientele who valued elegance just as much as precision.

Crafted entirely in 18K white gold, this remarkable Rolex Precision is framed by an architectural arrangement of brilliant-cut and baguette-cut diamonds. The stones rise dramatically around the diminutive silvered dial, creating a sculptural composition that feels more like a piece of fine jewellery than a conventional wristwatch. Despite the extravagance of its setting, the restrained dial remains distinctly Rolex, displaying only the signature, delicate hour markers and the word “Precision”.

The integrated scale-motif bracelet is equally impressive. Its finely textured white-gold links create the appearance of woven silk, gently reflecting the light without distracting from the brilliance of the diamonds. Every transition between the bracelet, case and diamond setting has been carefully considered, allowing the watch to be worn as one continuous and beautifully balanced jewel.

Inside is Rolex's manually wound calibre 1400, a compact 18-jewel movement created for the elegant proportions of the watch. The case, dial and movement are all signed, while the accompanying Bucherer pamphlet adds another interesting period detail. Preserved more than half a century after its creation, this is a rare expression of Rolex at its most artistic: part timepiece, part jewel and entirely captivating.