Newbie Help on '54 Oysterdate Perpetual

[pt9872]

Hello everyone,

I was hoping to get some of your feedback for this 1st time Rolex owner.

It's a first and it's a vintage given to me by my Mom who kept it for my Dad for the past who knows number of years. It was originally from my grandfather, unfortunatley no papers, nor box. Am still VERY happy to have it!

Here's the story, I finally saved enough money to have it restored, so yesterday, I went to this certifiied service center, eagerly looking forward to finally having it serviced, and to make it short, the guy said " it's not genuine". I can't believe what I heard, after looking it up on the web as a '54 to '56 oysterdate perpetual.

Today, I read good reviews on John Alabaster in VA, and went straight to his shop and to my relief, he said everything looks good. It's beat up but genuine.

One thing that intrigues me though is being a Rolex Master Repairman with 50 plus years of experience, he seemed fascinated by how the watch seemed a bit different inside, like the "1030" caliber marking is not encased by a square, and some other stuff like it is not marked as jeweled but as ruby....

Anyway, I was hoping to get enthusiasts like you guys to maybe provide some input on this particular watch and model. After leaving his shop I felt sick not knowing if this "uniqueness" is good or bad.

Serial # is 12325
Ref 6518
Manufactured March, 1954 as per Mr. Alabaster
Movement 458352
1030 caliber

I have attached some pics (hopefully it came out right) and asked John as well to take before and after pics so I can share it with you guys.

Any input would be much appreciated! I now understand why there are so many Rolex enthusiasts!

Happy Holidays to everyone!

Paul