Rolex Oyster Extra Prima, 9k Gold, Cooke & Kelvey, 1927

A fine and rare 9k gold Rolex Oyster Extra Prima co-signed Cooke & Kelvey. Hailing from circa 1927, this lovely example of an early Rolex Oyster may have been the property of Air Chief Marshal Sir Walter Hugh Merton​.

Whilst early examples of gold Rolex Oysters are already highly collectable, this particular example has two additional points of interest. The first is the double signed dial which includes the name Cooke & Kelvey.

Founded in 1858 in Kolkata, Cooke & Kelvey​ were clock makers, silversmiths and jewellers​ who were popular during the later period of British India. It is said their clientele included Royals, Indian princes and nobility as well as Western aristocrats​. Interestingly the company is still active and retains their original address. 

The second is the inscription on the case back; "W H Merton" which appears to refer to Sir Walter Hugh Merton​. You can find a brief history of Sir Merton here.​ Interestingly the times seem to match with Sir Merton posted to Risalpur​, India in 1931 as a Photographic Officer. 

The watch itself has a 9k gold case with the inner case-back stamped 20 world’s records, Great Britain patents 260554/1925, 274.789, Swiss Patents 114.948 and 120.851, signed R.W.C Ltd​. The case along with the dial remain in excellent condition. The crown appears to have been changed at some point as is often the way for a watch of this age. The Extra Prima movement is in excellent condition and has just received a full service. Finally, the watch is fitted with a new lizard skin strap.

Not only is this watch stunning in its own right but also historically important. Truly the best of both worlds for enthusiasts and collectors alike!

Shipping:

For orders placed before 2pm orders will be shipped the same day.

Your watch will be carefully packaged and shipped fully insured with leading global courier companies.

Delivery Prices:

Delivery within the UK is Free. Delivery within Europe is £30. Delivery for the Rest of the World is £50.

Returns:

Don't like it or change your mind? Return it for a full refund with our 14 day, no hassle returns on all sales. See the full conditions here.

The Watches

Are all watches authenticated?

All our watches pass through a double authentication process to insure their authenticity. We also provide detailed photos of the watch from all angles to allow you to undertake your own anlysis. Finally as with everything, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to our friendly team

What if something goes wrong with the watch

Whilst all our watches are fully serviced before sale, if something does go wrong, we'll repair it for free as part of our 1 year warranty

Do watches come with original box and papers?

It depends on the individual watch. You can see details under "The Basics" heading on this page. For the majority of vintage watches their original box and papers have been lost to time. Whilst they are nice to have, it’s important to note that “box and papers” DO NOT authenticate a watch despite what many in our trade say. It’s also important to realise alot of sellers (including some of the most well known in the UK) put together full sets of box, papers, hang tags etc by buying blank paperwork and boxes in the secondary market. This is a very regrettable, but unfortunately common occurrence in the trade but something we will never do!

How do I know it will fit?

For metal bracelets we provide the size it will currently fit in the description section of this page. If this measurement is too large or too small we are able to assist in either adding or removing links. We also offer this service, post service on a at-cost basis (i.e. we don't add a margin).

Can you change the strap?

Absolutely! If you don't like the current strap, let us know and we'll change it for free! We maintain a broad selection of styles and can also source straps to your specification free of charge.

Can you source something similar?

Absolutely! If its not quite what you’re looking for just get in touch and we can source one with our Free, No Obligation sourcing service. You can contact us on phone, live chat or simply submit the details of what you’re looking for on our “Find a Watch” page.

Payment

What payment options do you offer?

We accept payment by all leading credit and debit cards, ApplePay as well as bank transfer.

Do you offer financing?

Currently we don't offer financing but it’s something we're exploring.

Shipping & Returns

Can you ship an order to arrive on a certain day?

We can certainly try! We can request with our shipment partners for delivery on a certain day but ultimately the exact delivery date is subject to a number of factors outside our control.

How do I return a watch?

Simply let us know you want to send the watch back within the 14 return period and return it to us via Royal Mail Special Delivery. We’ll process your refund the same day we receive the watch back.

Terms & Conditions

Terms & Conditions

You can find our full terms and conditions here.