Rolex Speedking Oyster Precision 30

Description

The Rolex Speedking Oyster (Reference 6418) is a beautifully gilded vintage wristwatch produced in 1948. This compact, man-sized timepiece combines classic post-war styling with Rolex’s early innovations in waterproof cases and precise movements. The watch features a 32 mm stainless steel case with a substantial 18k gold plating (40 microns, approximately 75% gold), a stainless steel screw-down case back, and an original Rolex crown. The dial is white with applied gold hour indices and baton hands, covered by an acrylic crystal. The watch bears the original case number 149619 and is fitted with a new Hermes leather strap sourced from bag leather, finished with a matching gold Rolex buckle. The Speedking designation emphasizes a masculine size and Rolex’s focus on precision; the Oyster designation refers to Rolex’s pioneering waterproof case introduced in 1926.

This Speedking Oyster is an elegant example of Rolex’s post-war offerings: understated, well-proportioned, and built with durable materials and finishing that have aged with attractive patina. Ideal for collectors who appreciate a smaller vintage case size and authentic period details, it pairs vintage character with a newly fitted high-quality leather strap for comfortable wear.

History

Rolex introduced the Oyster case in 1926, the first commercially successful waterproof wristwatch case featuring a screw-down crown and caseback, which significantly advanced wristwatch durability and everyday wearability. By the 1940s, Rolex had established a reputation for robust, precise watches for both professional and civilian use. The Speedking name was used by Rolex to denote smaller, man-sized pieces focusing on everyday practicality and precision. Reference 6418, produced in 1948, reflects the transitional aesthetics of the era—clean dials, modest dimensions, and restrained ornamentation—often finished with gilding for a refined appearance without the size of later dress watches.

Specifications

• Brand: Rolex

• Model: Speedking Oyster

• Reference: 6418

• Production year: 1948

• Case material: Stainless steel base with 18k gold plating (40 microns; ~75% gold)

• Case diameter: 32 mm (excluding crown)

• Caseback: Stainless steel (screw-down)

• Case number: 149619

• Dial: White dial with applied gold indices

• Hands: Gold baton hands

• Crystal: Acrylic

• Movement: Manual-wind precision movement (Speedking designation denotes emphasis on precision)

• Crown: Original Rolex crown

• Strap: Brown Hermes leather strap (sourced from Hermes bag leather)

• Clasp/Buckle: Gold Rolex buckle

• Condition: Good – visible signs of wear. Please note: the lugs are damaged; extra care is required when handling or fitting a strap.

• 24-month warranty

Includes official KCL documentation and KCL travel pouch