Rolex Oyster Perpetual 'Zephyr'

When it comes to "budget" Rolex, there are few watches more attractive than an Oyster Perpetual — and the Oyster Perpetuals of the 1960s and 1970s remain some of Rolex's best-loved timepieces. As a non-professional Rolex model, the Oyster Perpetual line is arguably overlooked by collectors today, despite being the most 'pure' successor to the original waterproof Oyster-cased Rolexes from the last century. All it takes is a strap change to transform this watch from a go-to tuxedo accoutrement to a field watch or BBQ grill timer. When you factor in that OPs have been made available in a broad variety of fun dial color configurations, the appeal grows even more. This particular OP, a Reference 1008 known as a 'Zephyr', dates to circa 1966 and features a 34mm two-tone yellow gold and stainless steel Oyster case with an acrylic crystal, a signed crown, a gorgeous, engine turned yellow gold bezel, a lovely sunburst silver Tritium dial with a matching Alpha handset, and a matching two-tone Oyster bracelet with a signed blade clasp. With its classic proportions and effortless elegance, this is a classic, tasteful, mid-century Rolex through and through, and the progenitor of many a modern reference —not to mention, an excellent opportunity to get into an interesting and not often seen vintage Rolex without losing your shirt!