Rolex Oyster Royal 3121 Salmon Dial Arabic Numerals Two-Tone Vintage 1940s (Unpolished/Serviced)

1940s Rolex Oyster Royal Ref. 3121, two-tone gold/steel, original salmon dial with blued Mercedes hands, unpolished case, manual wind, serviced 2024

Rolex Oyster

Rolex is one of the most recognized watch manufacturers in the world, founded in 1905 and headquartered in Geneva. The brand built its reputation on producing reliable, well-constructed tool watches and dress watches that have stood the test of time. Rolex watches from the pre-war and immediate post-war era are particularly sought after by collectors for their craftsmanship and the way they have aged over the decades.

This example is a 1940s Rolex Oyster Royal in a two-tone gold and steel case measuring 29 x 36 mm, a size typical of the period. The case reportedly retains its original unpolished finish with thick lugs, which is a significant point for collectors — unpolished vintage cases are increasingly difficult to find and preserve the original geometry of the watch. The salmon-colored dial has developed a warm patina over time, and the blued steel Mercedes hands are noted as an uncommon configuration for this reference, adding to its interest. The rose gold bezel and period-correct Brevet crown round out an original-appearing example.

The watch comes on a NOS WWII-era brown leather strap and has reportedly been recently serviced. It is offered without box or papers, which is standard for a watch of this age. Buyers should factor in independent verification of the service and authenticity of components, as with any vintage Rolex of this type.

Key Details To Consider

Rolex Oyster Royal – Reference 3121 | Gold/Steel | 1940s

A two-tone Rolex Oyster Royal from the 1940s in good used condition. The case measures 29 x 36 mm and presents well, retaining its original unpolished surface with thick lugs showing normal wear consistent with its age. No evidence of polishing, which is a genuine plus for a watch of this era.

The rose gold smooth bezel is original and in solid condition. The salmon-colored dial has developed a warm, aged patina over the decades, with numerals that show natural aging. The blued steel Mercedes hands are period-correct and notably uncommon on this reference, making this an interesting example for collectors. The crown is original — a Brevet Rolex rose gold crown, correct for the period.

The manual-winding movement was serviced in June 2024 and is running well. The watch is fitted on a NOS 15mm brown leather strap from the WWII era, which complements the overall vintage character of the piece.

Sold without box or papers, as expected for a watch of this age. A solid, honest example that has been well preserved and not tampered with cosmetically.

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