Rolex Oyster 6480 from 1954

Rolex Oyster Precision 6480 | White Dial | Rare +BREVET+ Crown | Circa 1954 | Manual Wind

On offer is a beautifully preserved and increasingly elusive example of the Rolex Oyster Precision ref. 6480, serial 968xx, dating this piece to approximately 1954. This was a quiet but important era for Rolex—prior to the arrival of the sport models, yet built with the same DNA: robust Oyster cases, sharp typography, and technical elegance in restraint.

What sets this example apart is the presence of the rare +BREVET+ signed crown, found only on early Oyster cases before Rolex transitioned to the later coronet-signed Twinlock. The +BREVET+ (patent) signature is deeply desirable among collectors and a true period-correct detail for early 1950s manual-wind Rolex models.

The white dial is clean and minimal, with understated stick hour markers and slim baton hands. Dial printing is sharp and unrestored, retaining its original configuration. No date, no clutter—just pure Rolex Oyster legibility.

The stainless steel Oyster case measures approx. 34mm, excluding crown, and wears larger due to the thin bezel and long lugs. Lugs remain sharp and unpolished with clean brushing and chamfering. Caseback is correctly engraved and screws down smoothly. The +BREVET+ crown operates as it should, with crisp action and threading.

Inside ticks the Rolex Caliber 1210, manual-wind, known for reliability and serviceability. Winding and time-setting are smooth; the watch runs well and keeps solid time.

Specifications:

• Reference: 6480

• Serial: 96892 (ca. 1954)

• Movement: Rolex Caliber 1210, manual wind

• Case Size: 34mm (excluding crown)

• Case Material: Stainless steel

• Dial: White, original printing, stick indices, no date

• Crown: Rare +BREVET+ signed screw-down crown

• Crystal: Acrylic

• Bracelet: Supplied on period-correct leather

The 6480 is a seldom-seen reference in any condition—especially with original white dial and a rare +BREVET+ crown, which rarely survives replacement during servicing. This is Rolex purity at its best: early, clean, and understated.