Rolex 6082 Shock-Resisting Oyster Wristwatch c.1952
The Rolex 6082 Shock-Resisting Oyster is a relatively rare and unusual reference produced by Rolex in the early 1950s until the 1960s.
Its main features include a 34mm stainless steel case with screw down case back and a Rolex 15 jewel manual wind movement.
The particularly fine example for sale features a spectacular and seldom found 3–6–9 dial with beautiful gold baton markers and matching hour and minute hands.
As indicated on the dial, the watch incorporates early Rolex shock-resistance technology, designed to protect the movement from shocks and impacts.
Importantly, the watch also retains its rare and original Super Oyster crown, which is believed to have been produced by Rolex for only around three years before being discontinued. The Super Oyster crown was an attempt to create a waterproof winding crown that did not require screwing down. Although effective, its rubber seal tended to perish over time, resulting in the design being phased out.
Adding to its desirability and significance, the watch for sale was formerly the property of RAF Wing Commander C. F. Kevis (46064). This is confirmed by the inscription on the reverse of the case back.
Colin Frank Kevis appears to have had a long and distinguished career in the Royal Air Force. This is apparent by his WW2 medals and matching miniatures, both of which accompany the watch, together with copies of the entries included within the London Gazette relating to his military service.
His six-medal group includes the following:
1939–45 Star
France and Germany Star
War Medal with M.I.D. Oak Leaf
Defence Medal
General Service Medal with Malaya Clasp
RAF Long Service and Good Conduct Medal
The RAF Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (LS&GCM), struck in silver, was instituted on 1st July 1919 for award to RAF NCOs and other ranks after 18 years of exemplary service. From 1947, RAF officers also became eligible, provided at least twelve of their fifteen qualifying years had been served in the ranks, and the required standard of good conduct had been maintained.
Wing Commander Kevis’s LS&GCM is the first King George VI version, issued from 1936 until around 1948. It is therefore likely that he began his RAF career in the early 1930s.
Wing Commander Kevis retired from the RAF on 25th February 1960.
Early vintage Rolex wristwatches with provenance relating to their original RAF owner are rare and highly desirable, especially among vintage Rolex collectors and military watch enthusiasts.
