The Rolex Oysterquartz, a name whispered with reverence and sometimes a touch of controversy among watch enthusiasts, represents a fascinating chapter in the history of the crown. While the brand's reputation is largely built on its meticulously crafted mechanical movements, the Oysterquartz, specifically the reference 17013 B, stands as a testament to Rolex's willingness to embrace technological innovation, albeit in a limited and ultimately short-lived foray into the quartz era. This article will explore the intricacies of the Rolex Oysterquartz 17013 B, examining its design, its place within the Rolex catalog, its current market value, and the enduring appeal – and some of the misconceptions – surrounding this unique timepiece.
The great appeal of the traditional Datejust and Day-Date watches has always rested on their sheer scale of available options. The different possible connotations of various metal (yellow gold, white gold, stainless steel, combinations thereof), dial color (from classic black and silver to more vibrant hues), bezel type (smooth, fluted, or engine-turned), and bracelet (Jubilee, Oyster) number into the thousands, creating a watch for almost every taste and occasion. Rolex, with its mastery of manufacturing and marketing, expertly cultivated this vast selection, ensuring a watch for every discerning customer. This strategy, however, didn't entirely extend to their foray into quartz technology.
The Rolex Oysterquartz, launched in the late 1970s, marked a significant departure from the brand's predominantly mechanical heritage. Facing the quartz crisis, which saw the rise of incredibly accurate and affordable quartz watches from Japanese manufacturers, Rolex responded not by abandoning its mechanical expertise, but by creating a quartz watch that embodied its commitment to precision, durability, and luxury. The reference 17013 B, with its stainless steel Oyster case and bracelet, represents a particularly appealing entry point into the world of Oysterquartz ownership. The "B" designation typically indicates a black dial, though variations do exist.
The 17013 B, like other Oysterquartz models, housed the highly advanced caliber 5035, a movement jointly developed with Beta 21, a consortium of leading Swiss watchmakers. This movement wasn't just any quartz movement; it was designed to meet Rolex's exacting standards of accuracy and reliability. The caliber 5035 boasts a level of precision rarely seen in quartz watches of its time, and it is this level of precision that often surprises those unfamiliar with the Oysterquartz line. While the accuracy of a quartz movement is typically a given, the 5035 was built to Rolex's rigorous standards. Its robustness and reliability are key features that contribute to the watch's lasting appeal. Unlike many mass-produced quartz watches, the Oysterquartz was built to last, reflecting Rolex's dedication to longevity and craftsmanship.
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