Rolex 6426 Precision Mid Size

Details

This 1960s 6426 is powered by the excellent 1200 series movement. One of Rolex's finest ever movements. Well maintained examples remain reliable to this day.

This example features a stainless steel case, paired with the watches original steel bracelet. 

As part of it's recent service, the watch received a new mainspring and all seals were replaced as well as the acrylic crystal.

Warranty

All our watches are carefully curated, they are fully serviced prior to sale and protected by our comprehensive 1 year warranty.

We also check watches against the industry register of lost/stolen items prior to sale and purchase only from trusted sources.

Further Reading

Rolex Watches of the 1960s: A Decade of Innovation and Iconic Timepieces

The 1960s were a transformative decade for Rolex, as the Swiss watchmaker solidified its position as the symbol of luxury, precision, and innovation in horology. The brand introduced a range of ground breaking models that would go on to become legendary and continue to define the world of luxury watches. From diving to aviation to the sports world, Rolex watches of the 1960s embodied technological advancements, iconic designs, and timeless appeal.

The Rolex Submariner: An Icon of the 1960s

The Submariner, one of Rolex’s most enduring models, continued to evolve in the 1960s. Introduced in 1953, the Submariner became synonymous with the diver’s watch, and in the 1960s, it reached new heights of popularity and refinement. The most notable version from the decade was the Ref. 5512, which featured a larger case size and a distinctive "Mercedes" hands design, a hallmark of the Submariner series.

The 1960s also saw the release of the Ref. 1680 with the addition of a date function, which was a game-changer for the brand. This Submariner model was the first to feature a date complication, making it even more practical for everyday wear while retaining its reputation as the premier dive watch.

The Rolex Daytona: Racing Heritage

Rolex’s connection to motorsports became more pronounced in the 1960s with the introduction of the Rolex Daytona, a watch designed specifically for professional racing drivers. Launched in 1963, the Daytona was initially met with limited success, but over time, it would become one of the most coveted Rolex models ever made. The Ref. 6239, the first iteration of the Daytona, featured a tachymeter scale on the bezel, which allowed drivers to calculate speed based on elapsed time.

The Daytona's connection to racing legend Paul Newman further elevated its status in the years to come, with the model becoming known as the “Paul Newman” Daytona. This connection to motorsport culture and its association with a high-precision chronograph made the Daytona an enduring symbol of athleticism and technical achievement.

The Rolex GMT-Master: A Tool for Aviators and Travelers

The 1960s also saw the continued success of the Rolex GMT-Master, designed for pilots and frequent travelers who needed to track multiple time zones. The model’s signature feature was its rotating 24-hour bezel, allowing wearers to display a second time zone. The Ref. 1675, which debuted in 1959 and became a staple throughout the 1960s, was the model of choice for professionals in aviation and international travel.

The GMT-Master was particularly associated with Pan Am pilots, who used the watch as a practical tool for transatlantic flights, which required the tracking of time across different time zones. The model’s iconic "Pepsi" bezel (a red and blue design) became synonymous with the GMT-Master during the 1960s, and it remains one of the most recognizable color combinations in Rolex’s catalog today.

The Rolex Explorer: Mountaineering and Adventure

Rolex’s Explorer line, designed for adventurers, was also a significant part of the brand’s legacy in the 1960s. The Ref. 1016 Explorer, produced from the late 1950s to the early 1980s, was known for its durability and legibility in extreme conditions. The watch was designed for mountaineers and explorers, famously worn by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay during their historic 1953 ascent of Mount Everest. By the 1960s, the Explorer had become synonymous with rugged outdoor exploration and continued to be favored by adventurers and explorers of the time.

The Rolex Day-Date: The “President’s Watch”

Another significant addition to Rolex’s lineup during the 1960s was the Rolex Day-Date, which was introduced in 1956 but gained wider recognition during the 1960s. Known as the “President’s Watch,” the Day-Date quickly became associated with world leaders, celebrities, and the affluent. The Day-Date was the first watch to feature both the date and the day of the week spelled out in full on the dial, adding to its sophisticated design. Its combination of precision and luxury made it a favorite among influential figures, including U.S. presidents and high-profile personalities of the time.

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual: A Timeless Classic

Throughout the 1960s, the Oyster Perpetual continued to be a mainstay of Rolex’s collection. Known for its automatic movement and water-resistant case, the Oyster Perpetual epitomized the brand’s commitment to making reliable and durable watches that could withstand the elements. The 1960s saw new variations of the Oyster Perpetual, including models with colorful dials and various case sizes. It remained a classic symbol of elegance and practicality, embodying Rolex’s ethos of combining functionality with refined design.

Conclusion: Rolex in the 1960s – A Legacy of Excellence

The 1960s were a defining decade for Rolex, marked by innovation, iconic design, and technical advancements that would shape the brand’s legacy for decades to come. From the refinement of its dive watches like the Submariner to the introduction of timepieces that catered to aviation, motorsport, and exploration, Rolex solidified its reputation as a producer of high-quality, functional, and luxurious timepieces. Today, Rolex watches from the 1960s remain highly sought after by collectors, with models like the Submariner, Daytona, and GMT-Master standing out as some of the most iconic watches in horological history. The 1960s not only defined Rolex’s future but also set the stage for the brand’s continued dominance in the luxury watch market.