Rolex 6917

The Rolex 6917 is a fascinating and rare timepiece that holds a special place in the history of Rolex watches. It represents a period of experimentation and innovation for the brand, and its unique features and design elements have made it a highly sought-after collector’s item.

Rolex 6917: A Historical Overview

The Rolex 6917 was produced in the 1950s, during a time when Rolex was exploring new ways to enhance the functionality and durability of its watches. The watch was designed for professional divers and explorers, and it featured a number of groundbreaking features that were ahead of their time.

Key Features and Design Elements, Rolex 6917

The Rolex 6917 was a robust and reliable watch that was built to withstand the harshest conditions. Some of its key features included:

  • Large, oversized case: The 6917’s case was significantly larger than the typical Rolex watches of the time, providing increased visibility and a more substantial feel. This design was intended to improve the watch’s readability and durability in extreme environments.
  • Triple-lock crown: The 6917 featured a triple-lock crown, which provided exceptional water resistance. This crown system, patented by Rolex, ensured that the watch was securely sealed against water ingress, even at significant depths.
  • Rotating bezel: The watch had a rotating bezel that could be used to time dives or other activities. The bezel was made of a durable material and was designed to be easy to grip and rotate, even with gloves on.
  • Luminous hands and markers: The 6917’s hands and markers were coated with a luminous material, ensuring excellent visibility in low-light conditions. This feature was essential for divers and explorers who needed to be able to read the time accurately, even in the dark.
  • Durable movement: The 6917 was powered by a robust and reliable movement, known for its accuracy and longevity. This movement was specifically designed to withstand the demands of professional use and to maintain its precision even in extreme conditions.

Significance within the History of Rolex Watches

The Rolex 6917 played a significant role in the evolution of Rolex watches, paving the way for future models that would push the boundaries of diving and exploration. Its innovative features and design elements helped to establish Rolex’s reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation.

The 6917’s robust construction, water resistance, and advanced features set a new standard for professional diving watches. It was a testament to Rolex’s commitment to creating timepieces that could withstand the most challenging environments and provide reliable performance in critical situations.

Rolex 6917

The Rolex 6917, a classic chronograph wristwatch, is a testament to Rolex’s enduring legacy of precision and elegance. While not as widely known as some of its more prominent counterparts, the 6917 holds a special place in the hearts of vintage watch enthusiasts. This timepiece exhibits a range of variations that add to its allure and historical significance.

Notable Variations

The Rolex 6917 is known for its diverse variations, which stem from its production span from the late 1960s to the early 1980s. These variations primarily involve dial configurations, case sizes, and unique features.

  • Dial Variations: The 6917 boasts a variety of dial configurations, including different color schemes, indices, and hand styles. Some of the most sought-after variations include the black dial with white markers and red chronograph hands, the silver dial with black markers and black chronograph hands, and the panda dial with black subdials and white markers.
  • Case Sizes: While the majority of 6917 models feature a 36mm case, there are rare variations with slightly larger cases, around 37mm. The larger case size provides a more substantial presence on the wrist, catering to those who prefer a larger watch.
  • Unique Features: Some 6917 models feature unique characteristics that distinguish them from other variations. For example, certain models have a “tropical” dial, where the dial color has faded or changed over time, giving it a unique patina. Others have a “T Swiss Made T” inscription on the dial, indicating their origin.

The variations in the Rolex 6917 demonstrate the brand’s willingness to experiment and cater to diverse tastes. These variations also reflect the evolving trends in watchmaking during the period of the 6917’s production.

Comparing and Contrasting Variations

The various 6917 models, with their distinct features, offer a spectrum of choices for collectors and enthusiasts.

  • Dial Color: The black dial with white markers and red chronograph hands is often considered the most classic and desirable variation. The silver dial with black markers and black chronograph hands offers a more understated elegance, while the panda dial with black subdials and white markers stands out with its contrasting colors.
  • Case Size: The 36mm case is the standard size for the 6917, offering a comfortable fit on most wrists. The larger 37mm case provides a more substantial presence and may be preferred by those with larger wrists.
  • Unique Features: Tropical dials and “T Swiss Made T” inscriptions add to the collectible value and desirability of certain 6917 models. These features reflect the unique history and craftsmanship of these timepieces.

The 6917’s variations offer a fascinating insight into the brand’s history and its commitment to innovation.

Evolution of the Rolex 6917

The Rolex 6917 underwent a gradual evolution during its production lifespan.

  • Early Models: The earliest 6917 models, produced in the late 1960s, often featured a simpler dial design with fewer markers. These models also typically had a smaller case size.
  • Mid-Production Models: As production continued into the 1970s, the 6917 saw the introduction of more elaborate dial designs, including variations with colored subdials and different hand styles. The case size remained consistent at 36mm.
  • Later Models: In the early 1980s, the 6917 production was discontinued. The later models often featured the more elaborate dial designs and the larger 37mm case size.

The evolution of the Rolex 6917 reflects the changing tastes of watch enthusiasts and the advancements in watchmaking technology during the period of its production.

Rolex 6917

The Rolex 6917 is a rare and highly sought-after vintage chronograph that was produced in limited quantities during the 1960s. Its technical specifications and design elements contribute to its exceptional performance and enduring value.

Technical Specifications

The Rolex 6917 is renowned for its robust construction and precise timekeeping capabilities. The technical specifications of this chronograph include:

  • Movement: The Rolex 6917 is powered by the Valjoux 72 chronograph movement, a highly reliable and robust caliber known for its accuracy and durability. This movement features a column wheel mechanism, which ensures smooth and precise operation of the chronograph functions.
  • Case Material: The case of the Rolex 6917 is typically crafted from stainless steel, known for its resistance to corrosion and scratches. The case is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday wear and tear.
  • Dial: The dial of the Rolex 6917 is characterized by its distinctive black or white color, often featuring luminous hour markers and hands for enhanced readability in low-light conditions. The chronograph sub-dials are typically placed at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, providing a clear and functional display of elapsed time.
  • Crystal: The Rolex 6917 is equipped with a scratch-resistant acrylic crystal, which protects the dial from damage and provides excellent clarity.
  • Water Resistance: The Rolex 6917 is water-resistant to a depth of 50 meters (165 feet), making it suitable for everyday wear and occasional swimming.
  • Strap: The Rolex 6917 is typically fitted with a leather strap, providing comfort and durability.

The technical specifications of the Rolex 6917, particularly the Valjoux 72 movement, contribute to its exceptional performance and value. The movement’s robust construction and precise timekeeping capabilities ensure that the chronograph functions reliably and accurately. The case material and water resistance provide durability and protection, while the dial design and crystal enhance readability and clarity. The combination of these features makes the Rolex 6917 a highly sought-after and collectible timepiece.

Rolex 6917

The Rolex 6917 is a rare and highly sought-after vintage watch, particularly among collectors. Its limited production run, unique design features, and historical significance contribute to its desirability and value.

Market Value and Historical Price Trends

The market value of a Rolex 6917 can vary significantly depending on several factors, including its condition, rarity, and provenance. In recent years, the watch has experienced a steady increase in value, with prices reaching impressive levels for well-preserved examples.

  • Condition: The condition of a Rolex 6917 is a major factor in determining its value. Watches in excellent condition, with minimal signs of wear, command the highest prices. Conversely, watches with significant wear or damage will be valued lower.
  • Rarity: The Rolex 6917 was produced in limited quantities, making certain variations particularly rare. For example, the “tropical” dial version, with its faded sunburst finish, is highly sought after and commands premium prices.
  • Provenance: The history of a Rolex 6917 can also influence its value. Watches with a documented provenance, such as those with original box and papers, or a known history of ownership, are often more desirable and valuable.

For instance, a Rolex 6917 in excellent condition, with a rare “tropical” dial and original box and papers, could fetch upwards of $100,000 at auction. However, a watch in poor condition, with missing parts or a questionable history, might only sell for a fraction of that amount.

Rolex 6917

The Rolex 6917, while not a specific model name, represents a period in Rolex’s history marked by innovative and influential timepieces. This era, spanning the 1960s and 1970s, saw the rise of iconic designs that continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts today. The Rolex 6917, as a symbol of this period, holds a significant place in horological history, impacting culture and leaving a lasting legacy.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The Rolex 6917 era saw the rise of several iconic timepieces, including the Daytona, the Submariner, and the Explorer, each contributing to Rolex’s cultural influence. These watches were not just timekeeping devices; they became symbols of status, achievement, and adventure.

  • Association with Notable Personalities: The Rolex 6917 era witnessed these timepieces adorning the wrists of prominent figures, including actors, athletes, and explorers. These individuals, through their achievements and public personas, further solidified the association of Rolex with success and prestige. For example, Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona, a rare and highly sought-after model, became a symbol of his enduring legacy and the watch’s cultural significance.
  • Role in Popular Culture: The Rolex 6917 era’s influence extended beyond the realm of individuals. These timepieces became prominent features in films, television shows, and literature, further solidifying their cultural relevance. The Rolex Submariner, for instance, became a staple in action films, portraying strength and resilience.
  • Enduring Legacy: The Rolex 6917 era left a lasting mark on the world of horology. The designs and innovations from this period continue to inspire modern watchmaking. The focus on precision, durability, and aesthetic appeal, hallmarks of the Rolex 6917 era, remain central to the brand’s identity and continue to shape the industry.

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