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1973 Rolex Oysterdate - Blue Dial

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Details

The Purest Form Of Rolex

The reference 6694 Oysterdate represents one of the most honest and straightforward models the brand has ever produced. It features the legendary Oyster case, the foundation of Rolex's reputation for water resistance, paired with a robust manual-wind movement. This combination creates a watch that is thin, reliable, and elemental. It is the core Rolex experience, stripped of all non-essentials, for the owner who appreciates simplicity and precision.

A Vibrant Dial With Original Papers

What sets this particular example apart is its deep blue sunburst dial. While silver and black dials were standard for the era, this vibrant blue adds a significant layer of visual character that elevates the watch beyond a simple tool. This example is made more compelling by the presence of its original papers and its period-correct rivet Oyster bracelet, creating a complete and correct package for the vintage collector.

Untouched And Well Preserved

The watch is in great cosmetic condition. The stainless steel case is untouched, retaining its original factory lines and drilled lug holes. Both the blue dial and the crystal are clean and free from any scratches or marks. All parts are original, including the signed Rolex crown, dial, movement, and caseback. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.

The Daily Ritual

A manual-wind watch creates a unique bond with its owner. The simple act of winding the crown each morning is a physical connection to the machine, a daily ritual that automatic watches cannot replicate. This Oysterdate is a masterclass in classic proportions, wearing comfortably in any situation. It is the ideal choice for someone seeking an authentic vintage Rolex experience with a touch of color that sets it apart.

Key Specs

Reference: 6694

Model: Oysterdate

Year: 1973

Movement: Manual

Case Size: 34mm

Bezel: Smooth Stainless Steel

Bracelet: Original Rivet Oyster

Bracelet Length: Fits up to 7.25in

Dial: Blue Sunburst

Metal: Stainless Steel

Includes: Original Papers

SKU: 229

History

The Oyster case — waterproof, screw-down crown, winding stem sealed against moisture — was Rolex's founding innovation, patented in 1926. Add a self-winding rotor mechanism from 1931, a date window, and you have the Oyster Perpetual Date: a workhorse that has anchored the Rolex lineup for decades.

The Oysterdate references — particularly the long-running 6694 — use a manual-wind movement in the familiar 34mm Oyster case. Produced from the early 1960s through the 1980s, the 6694 is one of the most collected entry-level vintage Rolex references: honest, unpretentious, and wildly durable. Dial variations across its production run include silver sunburst, champagne, blue, and a range of patina colors that develop naturally over decades.

The automatic counterparts — references 1500, 1501, 1503, 15000, and 15037 — span the 1960s through the 1980s in steel and 14-karat yellow gold, offering the same proportions with the convenience of self-winding. These watches were made to be worn every day, and the best vintage examples wear every day of that history on their dials.

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!