Rolex Oyster Perpetual ‘Eaton 1/4 Century’ 14ct 34mm 5590 (1956 approx.)
R84,999.00
1 in stock
SKU: ROL-1429Brand | Rolex |
---|---|
Model | 5590 |
Range | Eaton – ‘1/4 CENTURY CLUB’ |
Production Year | 1956 Approx. |
Box | No |
Papers | No |
Gender | Men |
Movement | Automatic |
Case size | 35mm |
Case material | 14ct Yellow Gold |
Bezel Material | 14ct Yellow Gold |
Bracelet material | Brown Leather |
Dial type | Champagne |
Water resistance | Not suitable for underwater submergence |
What Makes This Watch Special
The rarity and collectability of the Eaton Quarter Century derive from the fact that almost uniquely among Rolex timepieces, these watches display no external “Rolex” branding. Only upon removing the case-back, can one confirm that inside the case is properly signed by Rolex and this is essentially a Rolex Oyster Perpetual fitted with a Rolex Cal.1530 movement.
Many assume this unique gentleman’s automatic wristwatch was produced by Rolex for the alumni of the famous Eton College. However, these watches were in fact custom made by Rolex exclusively for T. Eaton Co. Ltd., which was once Canada’s largest department store retailer. Founded in 1869 in Toronto by Timothy Eaton, Eatons grew to become a retail and social institution in Canada, with stores across the country, buying offices across the globe and with a catalogue that was found in the homes of most Canadians. A changing economic and retail environment in the late 20th century and mismanagement culminated in the chain’s bankruptcy in 1999.
‘1/4 CENTURY CLUB’ watches were custom made by Rolex exclusively for Eaton’s as an award to employees who had worked for the company for 25 years. They were all made in 14ct gold with beautiful Bombé lugs, and usually engraved on the case-back with the employee’s name and the years of service. However, this example remains without an inscription.
Specifications:
- Model: Rolex Oyster Perpetual, 5590
- Year: 1956 (approximately)
- Dial: Off-white / Champagne, “1/4 Century Club” as hour markers, Gold Swords, 34mm
- Bezel: 14ct Yellow Gold, Smooth Bezel, Body and Case-Back
- Case: Swiss Hallmarked, 14ct Solid Yellow Gold Rolex Oyster Case
- Crown: Original Rolex Screw-down Crown
- Crystal: Plexiglass
- Strap: Brown Alligator Strap with Rolex Gold Buckle
- Movement: Automatic, Rolex Cal.1530, 25 Jewel
- Water Resistance: Not Recommended