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1968 Rolex Disco Volante - 18K Yellow Gold Grey Dial

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Details
A Departure From The Oyster Case
During the 1960s, Rolex briefly experimented with case forms that departed from their tool watch origins. The "Disco Volante," or flying saucer, is one of the most memorable results of that era. These watches prioritized mid-century elegance, combining a slim profile with a dramatic, lugless case design that integrates directly into the bracelet. It is a Rolex that feels more at home at a formal event than on a dive boat, representing a period when the brand explored a more artistic and less utilitarian design language. This solid 18K gold example is a pure expression of that vision.
An Integrated Statement In Gold
The defining feature of this watch is its construction. The case and bracelet are a single, flowing piece of 18K yellow gold, creating a seamless and substantial presence on the wrist. This integrated design was complex to execute and gives the watch a unique sculptural character. Paired with a clean, minimalist grey dial, the entire piece reads as a confident statement of 1960s luxury. It’s a design that feels both vintage and remarkably contemporary, standing apart from the brand's more common Oyster and Datejust models.
Excellent And Well Preserved
This example is in excellent condition, a remarkable state of preservation for a piece of this age. The integrated 18K yellow gold band is in perfect shape, showing none of the common stretching or damage that can affect these intricate bracelets. The grey dial is also perfect and clean. The crystal shows a very slight, minor scratch near the 11 o'clock marker. Overall, this watch is a beautifully maintained example of a rare and sought-after design. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Ritual Of The Manual Movement
This watch is for the collector who appreciates the roads less traveled in the Rolex back catalog. It is a conversation piece that sidesteps the usual references. The manual wind movement requires a daily interaction, a quiet ritual of winding the crown each morning. This simple act builds a tangible connection between the owner and the machine, a physical bond that is lost with an automatic. It is a perfect choice for someone who values design integrity and wants a vintage Rolex that is genuinely hard to find.
Key Specs
Year: 1968
Model: Disco Volante "UFO"
Movement: Manual
Case Size: 31mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold
Bracelet: 18K Yellow Gold Integrated
Bracelet Length: Fits 7-7.25in
Dial: Grey
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Weight: 67g
SKU: 11105
Vintage 1968 Rolex Disco Volante 18K YG Grey Dial Manual Wind 31mm
1968 Rolex Disco Volante - 18K Yellow Gold Grey Dial Sale price$16,500.00 USD