I hate customs....

[fortheloveofcrabs]

Hey,

Yeah, it's a Rolex Solar. Well, might be. The 'Solar' line of watches was indeed made for Eaton's in the 1950's. I'd bet your's in the later fifties guessing for the diameter of the bezel in relation to the dial. The watch has a 'faux' oyster case, or what is known as a 'Canadien Oyster Case'. It's is based on the famous Rolex Oyster case, but is slightly different. I believe this is because it was done strictly for Canada, hence it was out sourced. Rolex, at the time, did not make all their own parts and out sourcing was common.

As far the actual watch goes, I'd have to see the inside. It seems that there were two, maybe three types of movements used in this watch. Only one of the types being stamped ROLEX or TUDOR - being the most sought after kind. The other two types are not stamped and are of ETA type calibers (not terribly valuable). That said, it does not have a Rolex movement in it (out sourced again), even if it says Rolex on it. It was however, finished by Rolex.

Your watch appears to be in pretty good shape. Are all part original? Or has it been serviced by someone other than Rolex who may have used third party parts?

All in all, a pertty rare watch. There is a bit of a nich for these watches out there. Because it was only in little 'ol Canada, it is not a well-known time peice, but a very exclusive one.

I guess what I'm trying to say is, if you can FIND a buyer, they will pay a premium.

Having said all that, you have unique, quality time peice there. Do you wear it? It's a shame to have something like that sitting in a drawer.

HTH, is there anything specific you wanted to know about it?

[robzilla]

far as i know the watch is all orginal. i picked it up at an estate sale.
a antiques collector has it right now, when i get it back, i'll take the back off and have a better look at the workings.
i did wear it a few times, but was worried that i'd damage it.
thanks for you help

rob

[fortheloveofcrabs]

Very cool. I wouldn't be afraid of wearing it. It is a Rolex after all. If they are good at one thing, it's being durable. That watch can out live you, it's so tough! BTW, there are a *few* of these that I have found for sale and they are all in the $1800 + price area - so you've got a pretty valuable watch there!!
Enjoy!

[robzilla]

thanks for you help. i got the watch back, and ive been trying to get the back of to help identify it.
is the back a screw on type or does it pop off? any ideas?
any suggestions where i might post a classified ad for it?
thanks
rob

[robzilla]

have you gotten your watch from customs yet? would be nice to see a picture