The Rolex Reference 6152/1. A seemingly simple alphanumeric designation belies a fascinating story of horological complexity, military provenance, and enduring mystique. This reference, featured prominently in four of the twelve chapters dedicated to the 1950s and 1960s within our book, "The References," Volume II, represents more than just a watch; it embodies a significant period in the collaborative history between Rolex and Panerai, specifically concerning the supply of movements to the Italian military. The 6152/1 isn't a single entity but rather a family of subtly different watches, each possessing its own unique character and historical significance. This article delves deep into the intricacies of the Rolex 6152/1, exploring its variations, its relationship with the *Corpo dei Carabinieri* and *Marina Militare*, and the factors contributing to its rarity and desirability among collectors today.
At a Glance: The Reference 6152/1
At its core, the Rolex 6152/1 is a robust, high-precision movement, designed to withstand the rigors of military service. While the case design itself varied depending on the final assembler (primarily Panerai), the underlying movement remained consistent, showcasing Rolex's commitment to quality and reliability. The movement's specifications, while not publicly available in exhaustive detail for each variation, typically include a hand-wound mechanism, a high beat rate, and a substantial power reserve, essential for extended periods of deployment without access to winding facilities. The dial variations, however, are where the true differences become apparent. These variations often involved differing hand styles, lume applications (radium or tritium), and the presence or absence of specific markings.
One Reference, Four Different Versions:
The four chapters in "The References" dedicated to the 6152/1 highlight the remarkable diversity within this single reference number. These variations aren't simply minor aesthetic differences; they reflect the evolving demands of the Italian military and the adaptability of Rolex in fulfilling those needs. The variations can be characterized by the following key features:
* Dial Variations: The most prominent differences lie in the dial. Some examples feature simple, uncluttered dials with baton or dauphine hands, while others incorporate more complex layouts with luminous markers and potentially additional markings specific to the commissioning body, such as the *Corpo dei Carabinieri* or *Marina Militare*. The lume itself provides further differentiation, with early examples using radium and later versions employing tritium. The color of the lume can also vary, ranging from creamy beige to a more greenish hue, depending on age and degradation.
* Case Variations: While the movement remained consistent, the cases themselves were often modified by Panerai. This resulted in variations in case size, lug shape, and crown design. Some examples might exhibit the distinct characteristics of a Panerai case, while others might show more subtle modifications reflecting the integration of the Rolex movement into a pre-existing Panerai design. The size of the case, and consequently the dial, could vary slightly, contributing to the individuality of each watch.
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