1953 Rolex Oysterdate Honeycomb 6294 Roulette Date

Make - Rolex

Model - Oysterdate

Case: 34 mm

Reference - 6294

Movement: Cal.740

Year: 1953

Bracelet - Leather tan

Accessories - Company watch pouch

Up for sale is a beautiful early-1953 Rolex Oysterdate, a wonderfully characterful example from the formative years of Rolex’s date-equipped Oyster models. One of the highlights is the roulette date wheel, alternating red and black numerals—a charming and highly sought-after detail that perfectly captures the spirit of 1950s Rolex production.

This example is the reference 6294, housed in a 34mm Oyster case with a screw-down Rolex coronet crown, offering both elegance and the robust waterproof design that defined the Oyster lineage. The dial is where this watch truly excels: an unusual and beautifully preserved original waffle dial, finished in a soft off-white cream tone that has aged gracefully, developing a deeper warmth toward the centre beneath the hands.

Applied silver dagger hour markers are topped with original pumpkin-toned luminous material, preserved exceptionally well and adding wonderful depth and contrast to the dial texture. The alpha hands remain in very pleasing condition with some light tarnish and complement the overall aesthetic perfectly. Powering the watch is the calibre 740 manually wound movement, a reliable and historically important Rolex workhorse of the period.

Overall, this watch has been beautifully preserved by its original owner, retaining an honest and attractive vintage presence throughout. It is also worth noting just how undervalued these early Oysterdate references remain when compared to larger Oyster cases with waffle dials—such as those found on certain Milgauss or early Datejust models—despite offering equally compelling design and far greater discretion.

A perfect entry-level into proper vintage Rolex, full of charm, originality, and individuality—and one you can be confident you will not see on another wrist.