Apparently a rare Oyster Perpetual

[fit_geek]

My first post, and I will make it brief. I need to retrieve the rest of the box, orig band, papers, etc from my bank to add photos but I wanted to post a picture to start some discussion rolling.

This past Christmas I inherited my grandfathers Rolex. I just turned 27 and never even knew this watch existed. It was a gift to him from a coal mining company for his years of service after the war apparently.

If i am not mistaken the paperwork shows this was purchased in 1972, I will update with the info tomorrow. Anyhow, according to my local Rolex jeweler when I got it appraised for insurance, this is something that may be a smidge hard to find. All of the research I have done for this shows models in 18k, however, this one is 14k, both face and band.

It does not have the date, and is in my humble opinion absolutely beautiful as it is (I added a brown leather strap, the original band needs to be replaced.

Anyhow, how unique is this really? Also, my apologies for the lack of artistic photo, still playing with the new iPhone.

[linesiders]

I have no advice to give other than do not throw out the original band. Depending on condition, even if poor, can be advantageous.

Take closer / better resolution images of the front / back / sides / and band and post them for people to offer more detailed comments

[zeuloa]

Not sure about how rare it is but it sure is beautiful!

[♛Fan♛]

It's unique and valuable because it has a history, and one that's very personal. I would do a little research about him and the company he worked for and include it in the material you already have. You can never put a price on the connections we have with our past, and the experiences of those who brought us into this world.

[crowncollection]

looks like a solid gold 1002 rolex, not particuarly rare, keep the band its still worth a lot and may be worth sending to a guy in hong kong if it is very badly stretched and needs repair, it will come back looking great and certainly add to the value of this watch.

[ncstate1201]

looks great!

[joe100]

Photos of the original bracelet please.

Let us determine what needs to be replaced or at least give you an idea. I've met a couple of folks who took it upon themselves to replace bracelets on Rolex and Omegas and it probably wasn't their smartest moment. Very good of you to vet this piece here first. Solid 14k OPs are uncommon.

Best regards and great watch. You're very lucky to own this beauty

[Tri-Tip]

Looks to be a similar vintage of my Father's Oyster Perpetual in S/S, purchased in 1970. Thread here: http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=159739

[roadcarver]

Wow, looks new!

[azguy]

Looks great

[gregorpal]

It is a ref 1005 (1002 are ss) 1005 came in ss and gol or only gold and they were made in both models 14k and 18k.

[gregorpal]

ref 1005 was a very common watch non date rolex made from 1960 to 1980. small watch (34mm) but simple and elegant: they look great always on a lether strap.