Why This Watch Matters A Rolex for the dinner party, this Precision leans toward the dress end of the scale, and we're here for it. The Full Story For Rolex, most of the words you see on the dial translate directly to gleen specific information about the watch. Some vintage examples are printed Oysterdate because the watches have an Oyster case as well as a date complication. Many dials have "Perpetual" printed on them, Rolex-speak for automatic or a movement that's perpetually in motion. The "Precision" branding found on this dial, and others like it, refers to a manually-wound Rolex caliber powering the watch. The Rolex Precision line remains overlooked today but offers some gems like this rare reference 9659. It's the type of watch not many collectors expect from the Crown, especially in the 1970s; this is a slim and elegant dress watch from a time when the manufacturer had already built a substantial reputation for robust, water-resistant tool watches, like the Submariner or the GMT-Master. On the surface of the dial is a beautiful sunburst finish and a rich champagne hue, which add a layer of dimension to the watch. The applied hour markers and logo show an acute attention to detail, with its 18k yellow gold case and a snap-on caseback. This is not your typical Rolex – from any period – and we're drawn to it for exactly that reason. Beyond the unique qualities of the Precision model line within the Rolex catalog, the ref. 9659, and this example in particular, further set itself apart due to its case shape. The thin, stick style, and downturned lugs are uncommon to see from Rolex, who more commonly prefers to use a larger angled lug even on Precision dress watches. Our example has remained in crisp condition with sharp edges on all four lugs and crisp engravings on the caseback. The case has even developed a desirable patina on the sides and bezel, adding to the vintage charm. Most prominently showing this ref. 9659's great condition are the crisp and clearly visible caseback Coronet and case serial number. These engravings were done very lightly from the manufacturer and have remained clearly visible even without a loupe on our Precision, which is not common. All this doesn't even touch on the outstanding condition of that champagne dial with golden applied hour markers and matching hands. We paired this Rolex Precision with our Sedona Strap in blue. The resulting look is suitable for daily wear. Gold and blue is one of our favorite pairings; it's both classic and on trend. The Fine Print Maker: RolexModel: PrecisionReference: 9659Year: 1966Case No: 1395340Material: 18k yellow goldDimensions: 34mm diameter; 10mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: NoCaliber: Rolex, manually-wound, caliber 1225Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE The Sedona Watch Strap In TempeLug Width: 19mmBox/Papers: No What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: Thin, stick down-turned lugs Champagne sunburst dial Visible caseback engravings and hallmarks Things To Know: Very light scratches on case This watch is in overall excellent, honest condition. The case is strong with some light scratches and appears to be lightly polished once if at all. The case has developed some very light patina overall. The thin, straight lugs are in crisp condition as are the hallmarks on the outside of the one and seven o'clock lugs. There are some scratches on the reverse side from strap removal and placement. The caseback is engraved with a Rolex coronet and the case serial number, both of which are clearly visible. The caseback center has light horizontal scratches. The dial is in excellent condition with an ever so slight patina throughout. The hour markers and hands are in great condition and have developed light patina. The dial, hour markers, and hands all shimmer in the light when viewing the watch from different angles. The dial, crown, inside caseback, and movement are all signed. This watch was photographed on a 145mm/5.5inch wrist.
