113 Rolex An important and very rare, Datejust "Ovettone", automatic wristwatch in yellow gold, with black gilt 6 diamond indexes dial, belonged to the King of Tunisia Lamine Bey, reference 6305-1.

Estimate: Fr. 40'000 –⁠ 80'000

• Model Datejust Ovettone
• Year Circa 1955
• Reference 1608895
• Case Material 18K yellow gold
• Case Number 74'794
• Bracelet Material 18K yellow gold Rolex bracelet, approximate length 200mm
• Movement Automatic, cal A296, 25 jewels
• Dimension 36mm Diameter
• Signed Case, dial and movement
• Literature This specific watch was previously sold in Sotheby's Geneva "Important Watches" auction 9th May 2010, as lot 155 for CHF 99,000.

A highly rare and historically compelling example of the early Datejust Ovettone, the present Rolex Datejust 6305-1 embodies the refinement and experimentation that defined Rolex production in the mid-1950s. Crafted in 18K yellow gold, it belongs to a short-lived and nuanced evolution of the celebrated reference 6305, distinguished by its bezel design. While the standard Rolex Datejust 6305 features a more tightly fluted bezel, the 6305-1 displays a broader, less densely cut fluting, anticipating the aesthetic language of later Datejust generations and lending the watch a subtly more modern appearance. The present example stands apart not only for its elegant proportions but, above all, for its remarkable state of preservation and its exceedingly rare dial configuration. The black dial, enhanced by gilt graphics and set with brilliant-cut diamond indexes, recalls the prestigious aesthetic codes found on reference 6062 models, combining technical sophistication with unmistakable visual richness. The warmth of the gilt graphics against the deep black ground, punctuated by the sparkle of diamonds, creates a dial of striking depth and character. To the best of our knowledge, only four examples of references 6305 and 6305-1 have appeared at public auction featuring this coveted black dial with diamond indexes in yellow or pink gold cases, including the present watch. Of these, two are configured with five diamond indexes and two with six. Cross-referencing with known black diamond-set dials on reference 6105 further suggests that the six-diamond configuration, such as the present example, is rarer, enhancing its desirability among discerning collectors. Previously offered at auction, this watch also boasts a distinguished and evocative provenance. It was formerly the property of Muhammad VIII al-Amin of the Husainid dynasty, the last Bey of Tunis and the only King of Tunisia. The watch was consigned for the previously sale in 2010 directly by a descendant of the family, further enriching its historical resonance.