Search

Results

View more results

Recent search

FHH | The Quirky Backstory Of The Rolex Oyster Quartz
The Quirky Backstory Of The Rolex Oyster Quartz_1

Quirky Backstory. Quirky Backstory. Quirky Backstory. Quirky Backstory. Quirky Backstory

Rolex Oyster Quartz. Rolex Oyster Quartz. Rolex Oyster Quartz. Rolex Oyster Quartz

09 January 2026

The Quirky Backstory Of The Rolex Oyster Quartz

education

by @watches_and_culture

At the beginning of the 1970’s, the quartz was set to become the ultimate watch technology, rendering the mechanical movement completely obsolete. Japanese quartz watches were beginning to overflow the market with impressive accuracy and day to day practicality at highly affordable prices.

The Quirky Backstory Of The Rolex Oyster Quartz_2

Over 20 swiss brands got together in order to face the Japanese threat and developed their own quartz movement, the BETA21. Rolex was initially part of the consortium but decided to develop its own in-house caliber, considered today as one of the most interesting quartz movement due to its construction and finishing touches. Launched in 1977 the first Rolex Oyster Quartz was set to become one of the pilar technology of the brand.

The Quirky Backstory Of The Rolex Oyster Quartz_3

Featuring two types of integrated bracelets, a must in the 1970’s, these watches were available in two collections, Datejust and Day-Date. Available until 2003, these watches were produced in a rather low volume in comparison to other Rolex models. Nowadays, Rolex has no more Quartz powered movement in catalogue but these vintage Oyster Quartz have gain in popularity among collectors due to their rather original design and interesting story.
FUN FACT: The rare Rolex Datejust reference 1530 has the exact same case design but was powered by an automatic movement. Hard to find, the 1530 is highly sought after by collectors.