The Rolex Oysterquartz, specifically the reference 17013, represents a fascinating chapter in the history of the prestigious Swiss watchmaker. While not as widely celebrated as some of Rolex's iconic mechanical movements, the 17013, often seen with the reference number R170133, holds a unique position, blending the brand's renowned durability and precision with the cutting-edge quartz technology of its era. This article delves into the intricacies of the Men's R170133 Rolex, exploring its features, history, market value (currently around $5,450.00), and the reasons behind its growing collector appeal. We will also examine related search terms like "Rolex Datejust 17013 for sale," "Rolex Oyster Quarter 17013," and "Rolex Oysterquartz 17013 price," providing a comprehensive overview of this intriguing timepiece.
A Legacy of Precision: The Rolex Oysterquartz Story
Before diving into the specifics of the R170133, it's essential to understand the context of its creation. Rolex, a brand synonymous with mechanical watchmaking excellence, surprisingly ventured into the world of quartz in the 1970s. The quartz crisis, which saw the rise of highly accurate and affordable quartz watches from Japanese manufacturers, threatened the dominance of traditional mechanical watches. Rolex's response wasn't to abandon its mechanical expertise, but to embrace the technology and create a quartz watch that embodied the brand's values of precision, durability, and elegance.
The result was the Oysterquartz, a line of watches featuring the highly accurate caliber 5035, a movement jointly developed with Beta 21, a consortium of leading watch manufacturers. This movement, unlike many other quartz movements of the time, was not simply a generic, mass-produced component. Rolex meticulously integrated it into its robust Oyster case, ensuring the same level of water resistance and reliability expected from its mechanical counterparts.
The R170133: Distinctive Features and Design
The reference 17013, often seen with the additional designation R170133 (which likely refers to an internal Rolex designation or specific retailer code), embodies the quintessential Oysterquartz design. It features the iconic Oyster case, known for its seamless integration and exceptional durability. This case, typically crafted from stainless steel, provides excellent protection for the delicate quartz movement within. The classic Oyster bracelet, with its comfortable and secure clasp, further enhances the watch's wearability.
The dial of the 17013 is usually a clean and uncluttered design, reflecting the minimalist aesthetic of the era. Depending on the specific variation, you might find variations in dial color (often silver or black) and marker style (applied indices or baton markers). The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, is a practical addition, enhancing the watch's everyday functionality. The unique "Oysterquartz" inscription on the dial serves as a clear indication of the watch's special status within the Rolex family.
The movement itself, the caliber 5035, is a testament to Rolex's commitment to precision. Its accuracy is significantly higher than that of typical quartz movements, reflecting the brand's dedication to creating a timepiece that met its exacting standards, even within the realm of quartz technology. The high-frequency movement contributes to this exceptional precision. This is a key differentiator between the Oysterquartz and many other quartz watches of the same era.
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