Rolex Oyster Cushion Cased Silver Watch - Rolex Extra Prima movement adjusted to 6 positions in various climates - 15j - Gt Britain Patent

Introduced in 1926, the Oyster was Rolex's answer to a problem that had dogged the wristwatch since its invention: how to keep dust and moisture out of a case that had to be opened to be wound.

Its three-part construction, with a screw-down bezel, case back and crown, effectively sealed and protected the movement against the elements. The cushion-shaped examples that followed in the late 1920s and 1930s are the earliest expressions of that idea, and they set the template for every Oyster that came after.

What's On Offer

We are delighted to offer this Rolex Oyster in a silver cushion case, dating from circa 1925.

At 32mm across, it is small by modern standards, but the silver cushion case has a pleasing density on the wrist. A finely reeded bezel frames the dial, and slender wire lugs carry a black leather strap. The case shows some minor scratches and surface marks consistent with its age, yet they give the watch an honest vintage look.

The dial has developed a soft cream patina, complemented by black Arabic numerals and a railroad minute track around the perimeter. A small seconds subdial sits at 6 o’clock, beneath the gently arched “Rolex Oyster” signature. The syringe-style hands have lost their original luminous material, leaving them skeletonised. Should you wish, we can restore them using original radium or tritium lume. The original brass crown has partially faded over time, lending a subtle warmth that contrasts beautifully with the silver case.

Inside is a 15-jewel manual-wind movement, marked Extra Prima, Rolex's highest grade of the period. As indicated by an engraving on the movement, it holds up to modern chronometer certification standards and was rigorously adjusted and tested in 6 different physical orientations. This has carried through to today, as the watch is in working order and runs well. The inside case back also carries the British patent number and the year 1925.

NB: We have tested this watch on our timegraph, and it reads that it is running well. However, its service history is unknown, and as we are selling it on behalf of a consignor who has asked us to help sell an entire collection, it is offered for sale as seen. Our consigners do not service each watch before they’re sold, so we have priced them to reflect this, and they come without a warranty. However, servicing can be arranged with our watchmaker at an additional cost if you wish. If so, please contact us to discuss this. Once serviced, the watch will be given a 12-month warranty.