June 6, 2023

2023 Rolex GMT-Master II 126710BLRO “PEPSI” $23,500.00 CAD. 505-00406

Many Rolex come and go through our estate department every month. The ceramic bezel GMT-Master II has proven to be one of the most elusive, this is the first one we’ve ever had to offer. Aside from the stainless steel Daytona, the blue/red GMT Master II 126710BLRO “Pepsi” is perhaps the toughest model to find at your local Rolex authorized agent. There have been long waiting lists for this model since it was introduced in the spring of 2018. This is the latest of the stainless steel GMTs and seems to be everyone’s favorite. For several decades now all Rolex sports models came only on the basic-looking and purposeful Oyster link bracelet. The Oyster bracelet is still the only choice for every other “Professional” model Rolex offers. The stainless steel GMT-Master II is also available on an Oyster but the uber-comfortable Jubilee bracelet is the one you want. The Jubilee contours much better to any wrist size/shape, especially for those of us who don’t have massive arms. The smaller 5-segment links allow the bracelet to conform to any wrist. Its dome profile and D-shaped link sections tend only to show scuffs and scratches at their highest point leaving the rest of the link to maintain the factory-applied polished and brushed finish. Small scratches and scuffs are very obvious on the flat sections of the Oyster bracelet but go unnoticed on this style. The Jubilee bracelet also helps the GMT-Master II achieve a dressier look a Submariner could never pull off. Ceramic bezels have become commonplace for the Rolex but the 2 colour ceramic bezels are still uncommon to see. The blue/red combination on our latest estate Rolex makes more sense than a monochromatic example. The red section represents daylight hours between 6:00 am and 6:00 pm (18:00 hours), and the dark navy blue displays the night hour from 18:00 hours through 6:00 am as indexed by the handy 24-hour, red arm hour hand. The bezel is indexed for 24 hours a day and can be turned to show a 2nd or temporary 3rd time zone. Rolex promotes the GMT as the cosmopolitan watch for good reason. It is the perfect travel companion for anyone who travels through multiple time zones in different cities around the world. The long, arrow-tipped hour hand can continuously track your home time (or Greenwich Mean Time) in a 24-hour format. The “regular” 12-hour hade can quickly be adjusted to show the local time wherever you happen to be in the world. The clever system can even jump timezones that trigger a date change forward or backward. This GMT was delivered to the original owner in the spring of 2023 and was only worn about 10 times. It comes complete with the fully endorsed 5-year international warranty, instruction booklet, worldwide service booklet, green chronometer hang tag, white paper product tag with matching serial/model number, inner/outer boxes, and a Rolex shopping bag. The overall condition of the watch is practically new, only a few light scuffs can be seen on the flat sections of the buckle. These minor marks can easily be polished away. This watch has never been polished in any way. Just a quick wipe with a cloth to remove a few fingerprints and it’s ready to go. These watches have asking prices on the secondary market for thousands above our price and waaaaay more than twice their original suggested retail price. This classic Rolex is estate priced at $23,500.00 CAD. Stock #505-00406.

June 5, 2023

2022 Rolex Explorer II 226570 42mm $17,475.00 CAD. 505-00376

Rolex is a company steeped in tradition and history. They are very slow to change marketing practices and style directions. They rarely introduce new models into the lineup, preferring to slowly incorporate style tweaks and technical improvements to existing models. The original Rolex Explorer II was introduced in 1971 as an adventurer’s watch that was built a little more rugged than a standard Oyster, Oysterdate, or Datejust. It featured an innovative orange second hour hand with an outer bezel that displayed the time in a 24 format. With a 24-hour display, the wearer could easily distinguish between am and pm hours. This was an actual marketing directive used by Rolex targeting speleologists (cave explorers). While never as popular as the wildly successful Submariner series, Explorer IIs have a dedicated following of enthusiasts who appreciate this very specialized piece of equipment. The current style Explorer II was introduced for the 40th anniversary of the original in 2011. This was only the second style change in 40 years. The watch now measures a full 42mm and brings the model squarely into the 21st century. The regular (smaller) hour hand can be independently adjusted to display any time zone in a 12 format while the larger orange hour hand slowly circles the dial once per day. This is a great feature for the world traveler or pilot who needs to keep track of universal time or any local time from around the world. All this can be accomplished without affecting the seconds minutes or date. The complicated mechanical automatic movement calibre 3285 has an autonomy of 70 hours and has been independently certified to chronometer accuracy standards. Our latest Explorer II has the preferred and slightly less common white dial with luminous hands and hour markers that are most effective in low light/no light situations. The watch was purchased from an authorized agent in early 2022. It is showing no evidence of use of any kind and has never been polished or refinished in any way. The fiendishly difficult to refinish radial textured bezel is absolutely perfect. An optically correct synthetic sapphire crystal is also 100% without the slightest nick or scuff. The watch comes complete with original inner/outer boxes, instructions, an endorsed warranty card, a cardholder, and the green chronometer hang tag. Sporty professional watches are very difficult to find at Rolex stores these days. Many models are only available if you want to get on a waiting list. Including the balance of the factory’s 5-year international warranty, this Explorer II is estate priced at $17,475.00 CAD. Stock #505-00376.

May 30, 2023

1987 Rolex Datejust 69173 26mm with factory diamond dial $8,200.00 CAD. 505-00380

Admission into the Rolex club will cost you $14,750.00 CAD if you’re partial to the look of this iconic design, and you choose to buy a brand new one (model #279173). For that princely sum, you get to have your name on the warranty card, a watch that is 2mm larger than this 26mm estate example, a concealed buckle, and some other minor style differences along with some mechanical updates. The fact that this Rolex is 36 years old will come as a huge shock to almost anyone who looks at it. Rolex is more than just a watch manufacturer, they are an institution within the jewellery and luxury product industry. If you buy a Rolex, you can be confident you’ll not need another watch in your lifetime. Styles and trends come and go but a Rolex Oyster, Date, Datejust, or Day-Date will stand the test of time like nothing else. Datejusts have been the most popular model from the Geneva-based company for over 75 years. Our latest estate example is in very good condition showing less wear than you’d expect for a watch from the 1980s. The silver Jubilee dial with diamonds is rarely seen and is very subtle. Unless you know the Jubilee dial is embossed with repeating/offset ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX you’d likely only think this dial has simply a pleasant textured finish. The sapphire crystal shows some minor scratches and nicks on the edges that go unnoticed except under scrutiny. These sapphire crystals sit off the bezel a touch. It is quite common to see the edges chipped a little. The solid 18-karat faceted yellow gold frames securing the diamond hour markers have a magnifying effect on the exceptional quality single-cut diamonds. The yellow gold fluted bezel on the 18-karat and steel jubilee bracelet has always been a best seller. The neutral dial colour blends with any outfit and can be worn on any occasion. The 19-link bracelet is showing some sag and a touch of stretch but has at least another 30 years of service left. For a little more than half of its replacement price, this watch is likely a better investment than buying a brand-new one. That new car you’ve been eyeing is going to depreciate more in a month or two than the total cost of this watch. Accompanying the watch are several service documents from regular maintenance at Rolex. The watch also included a red leather Rolex wallet, a 1988-1989 calendar, and the original bill of sale from Little Switzerland in St. Maarten for just $3,090.00 USD (how things have changed). It’s working great and keeping good time with all functions operating as designed. We are happy to include a complimentary one-year warranty for the next owner. Estate priced at $8,200.00 CAD. Stock number 505-00380.

May 27, 2023

1982 Rolex Air-King Date 5701 35mm $6,500.00 CAD. 505-00370

Get em while you can. Oddities like the Rolex Air-King-Date are still relatively accessible in Canada and other Commonwealth countries but this is not a common watch. Searching the internet reveals just how uncommon the Air-King-Date truly is on an international level. The rest of the world received Air-Kings with just a simple three hand display with a calendar; the Rolex 5500 and two-tone 5501 outnumber commonwealth market “Date” models  5700 and 5701 by about 7 or 8 to 1 by our estimate. Even though the Air-King Date is much rarer, plus it offers a useful calendar display, they don’t sell for any more than the common no-date models. Our latest two-tone gold and stainless steel Air-King-Date is the most rare and this one is in fantastic condition. The sunburst silver dial and hands are perfect, showing no stains, blemishes, or scratches, even when examined under magnification. The tritium in the hands and hour plots show a subtle tan hue and are completely intact. This watch dates from around 1982 and must have only been occasionally used. The Oyster style 12 link bracelet exhibits almost no sag. Curiously though, the Rolex coronet logo on the buckle is a little more worn than we’d expect. This is likely because the previous owner polished the flat buckle whenever the slightest scratch appeared. The flat buckle is prone to acquiring small scuffs and scratches. Despite their rarity, these watches are among the most affordable Rolex on the market. Rolex has always described these to have a case diameter of 34mm, our measurement with a digital micrometer confirms the actual size is an easy 35 plus mm. The comfortable size and light weight of less than 90 grams make them a great choice for a slim wrist. The Air-King Date features an extremely sturdy and reliable calibre 1520. This 26-jewel automatic winding mechanism was initially developed in 1957 and stayed in service until the late 1980s. A more than 30-year run speaks volumes for reliability. This watch is running well and comes with our 1-year complimentary warranty. It is estate priced at $6,500.00 CAD. Stock #505-00370.

SOLD

May 25, 2023

Rolex Oyster bracelet 79200 GMT Master II models 116710, 126710….. $3,000.00 CAD 505-00340

It is very unusual for us to have unused Rolex parts. This bracelet was ordered by someone who wanted to give his Jubilee bracelet “Batgirl” blue/black 126710BLNR GMT Master II a sportier look. He never ended up swapping the bracelet and eventually traded the watch in for something else. You almost never see these bracelets available on the secondary market as new unworn stock. It comes complete with the full complement of protective stickers and the original foam-lined plastic box. Estate price $3,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00340.

SOLD

May 19, 2023

1995 Rolex Datejust 16233 36mm with rare pyramid dial $9,480.00 CAD. 505-00399 e9522

Any Rolex is a desirable thing, even if it’s a relatively common model. One could argue there really is no such thing as a rare modern Rolex since the company has been producing well around 1 million watches per year since the 1990s. The Datejust 16233 is a model we’ve seen many times at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers but this one is just a little more unique. The “W” serial number places the production around 1995, nothing too rare about that. What’s interesting is the fantastic condition. The first time we sold this watch in 2017 it came with everything shown in these pictures. It was recently returned to us without any of its original packaging or documentation. After a move, the previous owner wasn’t able to come by the box or documentation. This watch DOES NOT come with the box or papers. According to the old image of the original invoice, the watch was purchased in Hong Kong for $3,403.00 USD. The condition of the watch is practically the same as when we sold it in 2017. It has only been occasionally worn since then. Everything regarding the condition could be described as very good to excellent. Whenever the head is polished the fluted bezel becomes a little more smooth. Not the case here, it looks perfect with the sharp edged corrugated ring synonymous with the brand. People who know what to look for will always measure the “horizontal sag” of the bracelet. No disappointment here either as the 18-karat and stainless steel jubilee bracelet is almost perfectly perpendicular to the case back. The best part of this watch is the perfect, blemish free silver/ivory pyramid dial. This dial is seldom encountered. Most examples of this watch come with a champagne or silver face. The pyramid name comes from the subtle repeating pattern that almost looks like well crafted quilt. The full Roman numeral 18 karat hour markers add a sophisticated finishing touch and the original tritium hands are in perfect condition. A 36mm 18 karat and stainless steel Datejust 126233 is still offered for $15,000.00 that looks similar to our retro Datejust 16233 but sadly the unique pyramid dial is no longer offered. Including a one-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers 1 year warranty the watch is estate priced at $9,480.00 CAD. It’s not the least expensive 16233 on the market but this is the best one we’ve seen in a long time and the rare dial makes it a Datejust to consider. Stock #505-00399 e9522.

SOLD

May 18, 2023

2016 Rolex Oyster 114200 “red grape” Oyster 34 $8,590.00 CAD. 505-00400 e10175

We first sold this watch in late 2016 and it just returned the other day as a trade-in. The Rolex 34mm Oyster is a great mix of classic Rolex design with contemporary details that are instantly noticeable. Have you ever seen a Rolex with a dial colour like this? Known within Rolex circles as red grape, this dial is a soft subtle greyish purple plum hue. Certainly not the typically encountered silver, black, white, or champagne face usually seen. Closer inspection reveals tiny little pink squares on the outer dial edge that tip the raised 18-karat white gold luminous hour markers.  The watch was purchased new in June 2016 at a Toronto authorized agent. When we sold it the first time it came complete with everything seen in these images; only a photocopy of the original bill of sale remains. The original Rolex documentation, packaging, and accessories have become inaccessible after a move (it DOES NOT come with box and papers). The uncluttered functional dial with smooth bezel and more sporty oyster bracelet make this watch the perfect accessory for an active lifestyle. A super scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, threaded twin lock crown, and a screw on case back allow a 100-meter water-resistant rating. It was worn by the previous owner as a favorite accessory for over 6 years. It shows typical wear for a watch regularly worn. Scratches and scuffs can be seen on the case, bracelet, and bezel, but it remains in unpolished condition. If you’d like the case and bracelet restored, we’d happily provide this service for no additional charge. Professional refinishing would make the watch look new again. The “Red Grape” dial is no longer available and has become a colour that doesn’t show up very often.  A unique watch that is sure to be noticed with a look of understated sophistication. Including a complimentary 1-year warranty this watch is estate priced at $8,590.00 CAD. Stock #505-00400 e10175.

May 17, 2023

2008 Rolex Submariner 16610 like new condition $14,000.00 CAD. 505-00357

This is the single most common Rolex when it comes to the Submariner and arguably the most collected. The 16610 debuted in 1987 and was a popular choice for anyone interested in a robust sports watch that could stand up under the most extreme of activities and conditions. It was manufactured formore than 2 decades before being replaced with the modern ceramic bezel versions. We selected this particular example to showcase because it is one of the last produced bearing a V series serial number from 2008. The latter models benefited from minor upgrades to the case, bracelet, and movement. More than just the last of its kind, this watch is in the best condition we’ve ever seen. It looks practically unworn. I’m sure it has only been worn a handful of times since new. Its single owner is a long time customer of ours who has many watches in his vast collection, many of which are unworn to hardly worn. This Submariner is almost perfect in every way and is even beginning to develop an interesting patina on the aluminum bezel insert. We’ve seen these black bezels fade to a dark blueberry hue before but never on a watch in this type of condition. The anodized bezel is losing its reflective quality, appearing more of a flat matte finish. We can’t explain what is causing this change but I hope it continues its colour shift to blueberry. If you’d like to see what a classic 16610 should look like, have a good look at these pictures. This Submariner does not come with an original box or any original documents. We are happy to include a 1-year warranty for the next owner. Estate priced at $14,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00357.

SOLD

Early 1950s Tudor Oyster 7809 34.5mm on Rolex 7205 rivet bracelet $3,770.00 CAD. 505-00308

Exploration of the world’s harshest environments and Rolex have gone hand in hand since the master of marketing Hans Wilsdorf (Tudor and Rolex founder) determined “Only great marketing is needed to make a company successful”. High quality isn’t the sole domain of Rolex/Tudor, but their long term marketing strategy and expertise have set them apart from many other great watch brands. Superb marketing along with a role in most modern world exploration expeditions and endurance events has set Rolex apart. Chances are, a carefully selected Rolex product has been on the wrist of the men and women who endured severe adversity to achieve their goals. In the early 1950s, Rolex equipped a group of British scientists in northern Greenland for studies of geology and climate. Most of the participants were military personnel who gathered first hand knowledge of living conditions for potential future military purposes during The Cold War era. The British Northern Greenland Expedition (BNGE) watches chosen for the expedition were the Tudor Oyster Prince reference 7809. For two years the participants relied on their Tudor watches for timekeeping duties. Exposure the vast temperature changes and being submerged in water were common tasks the 34.5mm Tudor had to contend with. The 7809 references are very rarely seen today. The functional dial is reminiscent of early Rolex Explorer watches featuring dials with similar Arabic numerals at the 12, 3, 6, and 9 positions. The dial on our example has been refinished at some point in its past to a good standard. The hands appear original as does the original threaded crown that still turns close to 360 degrees before popping out into the winding position. An added bonus with our latest estate watch is the Rolex 7205 riveted link Oyster bracelet. This bracelet is a later edition to the watch as the signed Rolex buckle is date stamped 4/68. While not quite as rare as the watch, the bracelet is an uncommon find in full length, 13 link form. On this watch, the bracelet will accommodate a wrist size of up to 8 1/4 inches. It is showing wear and tear with moderate sag and stretch, but at 54 years old it looks great with plenty of life left. The 17-jewel automatic winding mechanism is performing well and keeping good time. We are happy to provide a complimentary 1-year warranty for the next owner. This rare Tudor is estate priced at $3,770.00 CAD. Stock #505-00308.

2022 Tudor Black Bay 58 79030N extra NATO strap $4,700.00 CAD. 505-00384

Why mess with a winning formula? The ever-expanding Black Bay series of watches has been the most popular Tudor since the line was introduced back in 2012. The vintage-inspired look put Tudor squarely back in the spotlight after decades of low visibility in the North American market. Omega, Tag-Heuer, and Breitling controlled the mid-level price points. The vast resources of Rolex (Tudor’s parent company) did a remarkable job re-establishing the brand to an eager group of watch enthusiasts who had all but written them off. The Black Bay Fifty-Eight was introduced a few years ago and has been a popular addition to the line. It is usually sold out and on backorder since it was released. Its slightly smaller 39mm case size is more manageable for everyday use compared to the bulkier 41mm Black Bay. Aside from the size, the 58 is pretty much the same specification. The in house MT5602 manufactured 25 jewel automatic Swiss-made movement is keeping excellent time. This proprietary chronometer rated mechanism comes standard with an extended 70-hour extended power reserve. In the past, Tudor watches used movements made by other companies. The MT5602 is the first mechanism developed and manufactured by Tudor for use in Tudor watches. These watches are extremely popular with most being delivered to clients who have had their names on a waiting list for a long time. Our latest estate example is in excellent unpolished original condition showing only the slightest signs of use. The light scuffs and scratches (mostly on the buckle) can easily be removed while you wait. It comes with the original packaging, documents, and even an invoice for the purchase of the original stainless steel bracelet for $980.00 plus sales tax. It seems the watch was delivered with the nylon NATO style strap and then immediately upgraded to the bracelet before it even left the store. This watch was purchased in the fall of 2022 from a Canadian authorized Tudor agent. The watch remains under Tudor’s 5-year international warranty until late 2027. Here is your chance to pick up a hard to find Tudor for a small discount over the suggested retail price including a never worn Tudor NATO strap and buckle. This watch is estate priced at $4,700.00 CAD. Stock #505-00384.

SOLD

May 16, 2023

2023 Rolex Daytona 116503 champagne dial (never worn) $29,880.00 CAD. 505-00401

For the sophisticated racer/enthusiast comes the Daytona Cosmograph in Oyster steel and rich 18-karat yellow gold with a matching tone on tone champagne dial. It’s a formidable chronograph, a luxury piece of jewellery and a lifestyle statement all in one. The Daytona phenomenon isn’t new, although it’s more powerful now than ever. They’re the mythical Holy Grail watch for many collectors and have been difficult to find at Rolex agents for many decades. On the secondary market, they’re more plentiful but costly; often current models in stainless steel have asking prices two to three times what they sold for brand new. Vintage models from the 1960s and 70s can and do sell well into 6 figures. Even the upscale 18-karat gold and steel models like our latest example have a waiting list if you’d like a new one. This one is previously owned but has never been worn, not even a screw has been turned on any of the adjustable bracelet links. Not a scuff or blemish can be found anywhere on the case or bracelet. It retains the perfect original finish and has never been polished in any way. Just a quick wipe with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints was all it needed. This model has recently been replaced with the very similar 126503 Daytona, now with contrasting black rings around the registers. The new model can be seen on the Rolex Canada website here. Our example was purchased new in 2023. It’s always a treat when a never-worn Rolex comes into our estate/vintage department. This now-discontinued dial was updated just a couple of years ago. The chronograph hour/minute registers and the constant seconds register are defined with thick gold rings. The circular frames are engraved with microscopic concentric grooves that disperse reflected light in a subtle rainbow of colours. The effect must be seen in person to truly be appreciated. The 5-year international warranty will remain in effect until the spring of 2028. This version of the Dayton features the latest bracelet design with the integrated fliplock buckle and “easylink” micro extension for days when a bit more room is needed. Beating inside the 100-meter, water-resistant Oyster case is the fully in-house developed Rolex calibre 4130. This movement made its debut in the 2000 Daytona. In more than 100 years of history, this is Rolex’s first chronograph mechanism developed entirely within the corporation. They’ve pretty much always offered watches with stopwatch features but the mechanical components have always been supplied by other manufacturers. With the release of calibre 4130 Rolex finally freed themselves from production limitations imposed by other companies. You’d think with the vast manufacturing capabilities of Rolex there shouldn’t be any problem meeting Daytona demand. Such is not the case; in fact, it’s become even more difficult to find a Daytona at your local Rolex boutique. The Daytona has always had waiting lists. Since the new movement was introduced there is more demand than ever.  We are offering this watch above its retail price, but significantly less than the average asking price for anything comparable on the secondary market. Finding any sports/professional Rolex model even close to the original Canadian MSRP on the secondary market is impossible. It comes complete with the original inner/outer boxes, instruction/service booklets, endorsed warranty card with holder, green plastic chronometer tag, cardboard product tag with model/serial number, and even the white cardboard box sleeve. Our estate price is $29,880.00 CAD. Stock #505-00401.

2022 Rolex DeepSea Sea-Dweller 44mm 126660 (never worn) $17,500.00 CAD. 505-00230

Have you always wanted a Rolex Submariner but felt the 40mm case size was just a little too small and dainty for your taste? The big and bulky Deepsea Sea-Dweller 126660 is for you. The Rolex Sea-Dweller is a classic design that has seen little change since it was introduced over 50 years ago in 1967. Always the most watertight of any Rolex, always made of stainless steel until 2019 when a two-tone 18-karat stainless steel model was introduced. Over the years the depth rating has increased from 610 meters, but the basic look remained the same until the 116660 Deepsea was introduced in 2008. At 44mm in diameter, it was the largest size watch in the Rolex lineup. It’s a big watch and is more than capable with a water resistance depth rating of a remarkable 12,800 feet! I don’t know about you but my ears start to hurt at the bottom of the deep end in a swimming pool. An automatic helium escape valve is standard for those of you who need to decompress while living in a diving bell for extended periods of time. Our pre-owned example is about a year old but it has never been worn and remains in perfect untouched condition. There is still a protective case back sticker in place. It was purchased new at an authorized Rolex agent in the spring of 2022 and has sat in its box ever since. The watch comes with original packaging, inner/outer boxes, instructions, a plastic chronometer tag, a cardboard product/serial number tag, a warranty card, and instruction/service booklets. The 5-year international warranty will cover the next owner until the spring of 2027. Comes complete with everything shown for $17,500.00 CAD. Stock #505-00230.

SOLD

May 15, 2023

1979 Rolex Datejust 36 16030 ghost dial $8,500.00 CAD. 505-00377

An interesting dial colour shift. It’s hard to say exactly what colour this dial was when it left Rolex’s Geneva factory in 1979. What we can say with certainty is that it wasn’t this beautiful taupe, brownish/grey hue. This is another case of colour shifting pigments that vintage Rolex sometimes exhibit. With white text, it is my personal opinion this dial started off dark grey when new. I can’t imagine Rolex using white text on a light colour such as this, there isn’t the contrast you’d expect. The luminous material that makes up the hour plots and centre stripe in the hands has also shifted colour from white to pale orange (pumpkin flesh) colour. It is very common for tritium to change appearance to parchment or tan, occasionally this orangish colour is seen. There is no commonly accepted reason as to why some dials change colour along with the tritium hands/markers. Whatever the reason, we’re happy with the results. I also think this dial will continue to lose colour saturation and lighten over the decades. Patina is something many collectors of vintage Rolex cherish as they can make a somewhat ordinary reference unique in appearance. The VC code on the buckle dates the Oyster bracelet to 1978 further convincing us of the originality of the watch and its unique appearance. Unlike many Rolex Datejusts, the bezel on this one is not white gold but stainless steel. White gold bezels have a wider fluted appearance whereas this one has a tighter engine turned almost coin edge pattern. This bezel with a little less expensive and didn’t twinkle quite like the common fluted variety. The plastic crystal lets anyone with a passing interest in Rolex this is not a modern model. These plastic crystals were replaced with synthetic sapphire toward the end of the 1980s on all Datejust models. On the other hand, the convenient quick-set calendar is a more modern feature models from the 1960s and before lack. This watch may be the perfect balance of modern and vintage in establishing a Rolex collection. The watch is working great and easily passed our vacuum test. Although we don’t warranty water resistance on vintage watches, it’s nice to know the watch should stay dry inside if you accidentally submerge it. One last little bit of evidence convincing us of originality is the 6s and 9s are “open”, meaning the end point of the loop on the 6 and 9 doesn’t touch the vertical portion. 6s and 9s on replacement and newer models touch. Overall wear is consistent on all external aspects of this watch. We really love these subtle yet distinctive Rolex watches that offer a little more personality over a common silver, white, or black dial example. Including our 1 year complimentary warranty (prorated 5 years), this watch is estate priced at $8,500.00 CAD. Stock #505-00377.

May 14, 2023

1973 Rolex Datejust 1601 36mm $7,000.00 CAD. 505-00371

Another classic Rolex Datejust. Looking great for a 50 year old, this Rolex was just serviced with our master watchmaker and is running like new. These older Rolex watches are a true pleasure to wear, especially for anyone with a slim wrist. They are much lighter than a contemporary Rolex of the same size. This example weighs in at only 84 grams, a modern two-tone Datejust 36 is more than 50% heavier! Lighter links, plastic crystal, 14-karat trim, thinner profile, and simpler buckle design all contribute to a watch you don’t even know you’re wearing. The neutral hue silver dial can be worn with anything. The same can be said for the two-tone steel/gold metal combination. I love the bevel-cut round hour markers that are much thicker at the 6 and 9 positions. Small details like this while not obvious give these older Rolex a unique appearance. This watch is casual enough to wear with jeans or to your next formal event. That iconic fluted bezel surrounding the dial looks like new with sharp crisp facets that catch the light with the slightest movement. The 19-link bracelet will fit a wrist size of 7 1/4 inches or smaller. We likely have an extra link or two in stock if you need a touch more room. These older rolled link Jubilee bracelets are very supple and conform to every wrist contour. They were always loose and light fitting, even when new, Despite the obvious sag there is a little stretch and many decades of life left in this bracelet. If you’re lucky enough to find a new two-tone 126233 Datejust 36mm Rolex on display at your local Rolex agent, you are going to see a price tag of $15,000.00 CAD. Including our complimentary 1-year warranty (prorated for 5 years) this Rolex is estate priced at $7,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00371.

SOLD

May 13, 2023

2022 Rolex Explorer 124270 36mm $10,875.00 CAD 505-00274

A classic Rolex that debuted in the 1950s. The Rolex Explorer got its name after Sir Edmund Hillary wore one on his quest to be the first person to successfully climb to the top of Mount Everest. Ever since it has been a top choice for adventurous people who want the ultimate in absolute functional timekeeping. Crafted in Switzerland by Rolex using very expensive 904L stainless steel containing molybdenum. This exotic element makes the Explorer extra resistant to corrosive saltwater and other types of chemical exposure. Large luminous markers make low-light/no-light time interpretation a snap. The Arabic 3,6 and 9 add to the clear clean functional nature of this watch, especially in the dark. Purchased new in the spring of 2022 from an authorized Rolex agent. According to the previous owner, it was carefully worn only about 10 times. It looks like new old stock, only a couple of super light scuffs and scratches are visible on the case buckle and bracelet. It remains 100% original, never refinished or polished in any way. At 36mm diameter, the Explorer is not one of those jumbo watches you can’t fit under a shirt cuff. It’s on the smaller size for a gents sporty watch but for a smaller gentleman’s wrist, it is perfectly proportioned. Women too love the absolute functionality this model offers. There are not many nicer dials than that of a Rolex Explorer. The thin polished bezel makes the watch appear a little larger in person. A screw-down crown and case back help to keep this watch watertight to a depth of 300 feet. Rolex has abandoned the old 39mm version of this watch, returning to its roots with a 36mm. Comes with the original packaging, warranty card, instructions, booklets, plastic chronometer tag, product/serial number tag, foam box liner, outer cardboard sleeve, and even a Rolex shopping bag. The new owner will benefit from the balance of the five-year warranty valid until the summer of 2027. This watch estate Explorer is priced at $10,875.00 CAD. Stock #505-00274.

2008 Rolex Day-Date II 41mm 218239 $44,000.00 CAD. 505-00359

To the casual observer, this may look like an attractive stainless steel watch of generous proportions; perhaps they may even recognize it as a Rolex. To anyone who appreciates fine watches, it will be immediately noticed as the Rolex DAY-DATE. What makes this particular DAY-DATE so interesting is the choice of metal used in its construction. Almost all DD Rolex watches are manufactured in 18-karat yellow gold. This is the top of the model line for Rolex, there isn’t a DD Rolex made from anything other than gold or platinum. You can’t buy a budget DAY-DATE in stainless steel or even a combination of steel and gold. Since 1958 we’ve been buying/selling/trading Rolex watches but this is the first white gold Day-Date II that we have ever had. This is the big one, the largest Day-Date Rolex ever produced. Rolex claimed the Day-Date II 218239 measured 41mm in diameter. According to our digital micrometer is a bit larger at 41.6mm. The Day-Date II was introduced in 2008 and only lasted until 2015 when it was replaced with the slightly smaller Day-Day 40 measuring, you guessed it, 40mm in diameter, that is still in production today. This one generation only Rolex is sure to become a future collectible. Powering the DD II is also a single generation movement that is used in no other Rolex. The calibre 3156 is a 31-jewel automatic winding mechanism, certified chronometer with a 48-hour power reserve. Rolex claims this movement is accurate to plus or minus 2 seconds per day. The white gold makes this watch as interesting as the rarity. Rolex produces unique alloys of precious metals in their own foundries. Their jealously guarded alloy formulas are a trade secret designed for beauty and resilience to last a lifetime. A white gold DAY-DATE is the ultimate under the radar watch. They are rarely seen in person, and when they are, they blend into the crowd without creating attention to any but those who know. I’ve never seen a white gold DD in a Rolex agent’s showcase. They can be ordered in a variety of silver to black dial hues, you can even order a dial created from a thin slice of meteorite. The silver to black tones are very classy and sophisticated in white gold and these are the colours most often seen. It’s not overwhelming in dimensions but you sure know you’re wearing it. Crafted entirely from 18 karat you know it’s something special as soon as you put it on. This watch weighs over 217 grams (close to 1/2 a pound). This watch is a first-year 2008 model that has only occasionally been worn. Three of the four lugs still retain some of their protective delivery stickers. A protective sticker can also still be seen on the fold over locking buckle. The watch has never been polished or refinished in any way. This is a modern Rolex but is still quite rare, who knows when we’ll have the privilege to feature another white gold Day-Date II? We are happy to supply the next owner with a complimentary 1-year warranty. The estate price for this Rolex is $44,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00359.

May 11, 2023

1972 Rolex Air-King-Date 5701 34mm $7,900.00 CAD. 505-00385

Not very often do we see a Rolex that is more than half a century old with a perfect dial and hands. Delicate tritium hour plots and hands almost never survive this long without a watchmaker flexing them or accidentally touching the round tritium plots. Under the slightly scratched and scuffed plastic crystal is a blemish free silver dial on a rather uncommon watch. The 5701 Air-King-Date is seen far more often around here than truly represents just how rare they are. A search for other 5701 models on Chrono24 website shows just 7 examples for sale. These were only sold in commonwealth countries, in the rest of the world they were simply an Air-King with no calendar display. They are a great value relative to their actual scarcity. At some point, the original bracelet was replaced with a 78363 Oyster bracelet likely from a GMT-Master. The F date code on the buckle suggests this replacement bracelet was manufactured in 1981. Being designed for a 40mm watch, the bracelet end pieces have been modified to fit the narrower lugs of the 34mm Air-King-Date. In truth, these watches actually measure closer to 35mm. The sum of the parts of this watch is likely worth more than the total. Get yourself some new end pieces and part out this bracelet for $3,000.00 to someone who is looking for one in nice condition. The crown turns a full one and three quarters turns before popping into the winding position. The fluted bezel is sharp and crisp, and the dial as mentioned is perfect. The case back has been engraved with a personal message from 1973 that can easily be removed. Running well and keeping good time. Does not come with a Rolex box or its original documentation. We are happy to provide the next owner with a complimentary 1-year warranty (prorated for 5 years). The estate price is $7,900.00 CAD. Stock #505-00385.

May 10, 2023

Rolex Explorer II 216570 42mm white dial $14,830.00 CAD. 505-00402

Rolex is a company steeped in tradition and history. They’re very slow to change marketing and style directions. They rarely introduce new models into the lineup, preferring to slowly incorporate design tweaks and technical improvements to existing models. The Rolex Explorer II was introduced in 1971 as an adventurer’s watch that was built a little more rugged than a standard Oyster, Oysterdate, or Datejust. It featured an innovative orange second hour hand with an outer bezel that displayed the time in a 24 format. With a 24-hour display, the wearer could easily distinguish between am and pm hours. This was an actual marketing directive used by Rolex targeting speleologists (cave explorers). While never as popular as the wildly successful Submariner series, Explorer IIs have a dedicated following of enthusiasts who appreciate this very specialized piece of equipment. The current Explorer II was introduced for the 40th anniversary of the original in 2011. This was only the second style change in 40 years. The watch now measures a full 42mm and brings the model squarely into the 21st century. Rolex Chromalight luminous material on the hands and markers glows effectively for many hours after exposure to light. The regular (smaller) hour hand can now be independently adjusted to display any time zone in a 12 format while the larger orange hour hand slowly circles the dial once per day. This is a great feature for the world traveler or pilot who needs to keep track of universal time plus any local time from around the world. All this can be accomplished without affecting the seconds minutes or date. The complicated mechanical automatic calibre 3187 has an autonomy of 50 hours and has been independently certified to chronometer accuracy standards. Our latest Explorer II has the slightly less common and more desirable white dial. A Rolex with a white dial is always refreshing to see as most sporty Rolex come only with black dials. The watch was purchased brand new from a Canadian authorized agent and comes with the original warranty card. The card was not dated so the exact age of the watch is unknown to all but Rolex due to their scrambled serial number policy. It appears to have never been polished. It is showing evidence of enjoyment in the form of scratches on the case, bracelet, and bezel. The synthetic sapphire crystal is in perfect condition. We always prefer to leave a watch in its original condition, we can easily remove these blemishes on the case and bracelet if you prefer. The radial finish is another story; refinishing the pattern to appear original is very difficult. If returned Rolex for service and factory refinishing, this watch could be made to look new. The watch comes complete with original inner/outer boxes, instructions, a warranty card, and even the cardboard sleeve. Sporty watches are almost impossible to find at Rolex stores these days. Many models are only available if you get on a waiting list. Including a 1-year complimentary Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty, this Explorer II 216570 is estate priced at $14,830.00.00 CAD. Stock #505-00402.

May 8, 2023

2023 Rolex Datejust 41 126300 green motif dial like new $14,900.00 CAD. 505-00396

The Datejust 41 126300 is the current full-sized basic Rolex offering a handy date display. This model has only been available for a few years now and has proven itself to be one of Rolex’s most popular models. Many different dial, bezel, and bracelet styles offer an almost infinite combination of individual looks to suit almost any taste. This is the first time we’ve been able to showcase the uncommon green motif dial in this model. It features Rolex’s new generation 3235 automatic movement. According to Rolex the 31-jewel mechanism is 90% new and holds 14 patents. Its 70-hour power reserve is 50% longer than the previous generation with an accuracy rating 50% better than the already stringent industry standards for Certified Chronometer designation. You can learn more about this movement and its sister 3255 Day-Date movement on the official Rolex website. Our latest previously owned Rolex has only been worn once or twice. It remains in 100% original and perfect condition. It was purchased at an authorized Rolex agency in  2023. At 41mm in diameter, it has a great wrist presence. Lacking a thick bezel as many full-sized Rolex do the Datejust 41 looks even larger than the size suggests. The green motif dial with luminous hands and markers is the essence of classic simplicity in Rolex design day or night. The watch comes with everything originally delivered from the factory. The factory warranty remains in place until well until 2028. Large-size all-steel watches are difficult to find at Rolex boutiques, especially with anything other than a basic colour dial. The green motif dial is impossible to find and it adds an extra level of depth and attraction to this popular model. This recent trade-in is priced at $14,900.00. Stock #505-00396.

SOLD

2007 Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm 16623 with Rubber B strap $14,800.00 CAD. 505-00394

The Rolex Yacht-Master is often confused with a Submariner. The confusion is easy to understand as both watches are the same size, have a rotating bezel indexed for 60 minutes, have large super water-tight triplock crowns, and large luminous dial markers with the same style hands. Where they differ is the Yacht-Master is a little less narrowly focused in design. A totally polished case and solid 18-karat yellow gold bezel give it a more dressy jewellery look. This is still a watch that can be worn for all activities. Its famous oyster case provides a conservative water resistance rating of 300 feet. The two-way indexed bezel is a handy device useful for timing any event lasting less than 60 minutes. I’ve heard people using this simple feature for everyday things like parking meters, lunch hours or even timing the perfect steak on the barbeque. Bright oversized luminous hands and dial markers offer surprisingly effective contrast against the champagne allowing efficient time interpretation under all lighting conditions. This example dates from 2007 but looks like it is almost new.   It comes with the original inner/outer boxes, fully endorsed warranty papers, and Canadian service papers from 2015, a service booklet, a chronometer hang tag. The previous owner decided to give this watch a modern casual look by adding an expensive Rubber B strap. These luxury rubber straps are specifically made for each Rolex model and fit as well as any factory original. Rubber B even incorporates the original FlipLock Rolex buckle giving the package the OEM look.  Although the factory warranty has now lapsed Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers includes a one-year warranty covering all aspects of the watch the same as Rolex. The watch shows some wear mostly in the form of small scratches on the bracelet and bezel but the overall condition is very good.  Rolex no longer offers the Yacht-master in this configuration. The similar two-tone rose gold version with a brown dial has a retail price of $18,750.00 CAD. Our rarely encountered two-tone yellow gold with Champagne dial is estate priced at $14,800.00 CAD. Stock #505-00394.

SOLD

May 6, 2023

2023 Rolex Air-King 126900 40mm never worn $11,900.00 CAD. 505-00397

The Rolex Air-King has been around in one form or another for over 75 years. The basic looking oyster cased Rolex was first labeled Air-King as a tribute to Britain’s Royal Air Force who participated in the battle of Britain. RAF pilots of the time preferred using the Rolex oyster over the standard issue lower quality watches. The robust design and relatively large case size (for the era) made it the perfect pilot tool for quick time interpretation. Not to mention the entry level Rolex was a far superior offering to anything else of the era. After the 34mm Air-King was discontinued in 2014 it appeared that one of the longest running models from Rolex was gone forever. Rolex has been known to revive past models with an injection of new style and new technology before and the Air-King 126900 is the result. It’s ready for the next few generations of pilots or those who just love the style and tradition that is the Rolex Air-King. Gone is the rather small 34mm case, it’s been replaced by a 40mm version. If the larger Oyster case didn’t catch your attention the incredible dial has got everyone talking. Although some feel the mix of the highly polished white gold 3,6 and 9 hour markers mixed with large painted 5, 10, 20, 25….. minute markers is a little busy looking, I just love it. It certainly is a departure from the basic stick or Arabic/stick combo of previous generation Air-Kings. The look is unique and still very purposeful. Luminous Mercedes-style hands are far larger and easier to read than any set previously fitted. It offers a unique look when the lights go out as phosphoresce brightly. Along with the new case is the newer automatic calibre 3230 equipped with an antimagnetic shield protecting it from strong magnetic fields and the Rolex proprietary “parachrom” designed to limit the effects of shocks on accuracy. This ultra-high precision movement easily exceeds the minimum standards for chronometer rating at an incredible +/- 2 seconds per day according to Rolex. This watch is perfect in every regard. It has never been worn; the bracelet has never been in length, it remains blemish and scratch free. The balance of the Rolex 5-year international warranty will cover the next owner well into 2028. It comes complete with the instructions, service manual, endorsed 5-year international warranty card, plastic chronometer tag, white foam box liner, and even a Rolex shopping bag. This watch along with every other gent’s professional model are almost impossible to find right now. If you want a new one, be prepared to wait for months to years depending on what one you’re looking for. We have this one ready to go today for the estate price of $11,900.00 CAD. Stock #505-00397.

SOLD

2022 Tudor Black Bay 41 79540 hardly worn $3,000.00 CAD. 505-00383

From the less is more department, comes the Tudor Black Bay 41. It has only what you need and nothing that you don’t. No bezel timer, no chronograph, no dual time, and not even a calendar. For the purest, this is really what a watch should be; an ultra-functional dial in a durable case. This is the Rolex Explorer of the Tudor line. The basic Oyster style case is much the same as its big brother Explorer too. All stainless steel construction, a smooth polished bezel that secures the super scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and a screw-down crown with a threaded case back keep everything inside protected from the elements and provide water resistance of 300 feet. Large, well-defined hands and hour markers are treated with luminous material keeping function top of mind even in complete darkness. Thoroughly modern in construction but with vintage inspiration, this watch appeals to many. Snowflake hour hand/second hand, connected minute track, and curving text are Tudor styling features from many decades ago that look right at home today. This watch is in very good to excellent condition. Not quite new old stock, but not far off. There are some light surface scuffs and scratches but nothing distracting. It remains in its original unpolished condition. The watch is covered under the terms of the factory’s 5-year international warranty until the spring of 2027. The heavy-duty, stainless steel bracelet with a locking buckle is beautiful in its simplicity. The solid links are secured by proper threaded pins, no failure-prone bushed rivets or split pins are to be found here. It comes complete with full documentation and packaging from an authorized Tudor agent. This classic Tudor is estate priced at $3,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00383.

SOLD

May 5, 2023

1997 Tudor Submariner M75190A 37mm blue dial. $5,440.00 CAD. 505-00220 e14676

Tudor Submariners are a genuine scarcity compared t0 their upscale cousin the Rolex Submariner. I’d estimate we only see 1 Tudor Sub. for every 20-30 Rolex Subs. This 37mm model is the first of its kind we’ve had pass through our estate department, and it’s a nice one. It comes with December 2019 service documents from Texas detaining a full refurbishment that cost $1,200.00 USD. The automatic winding movement was overhauled, a new crown, new sapphire crystal, and new bezel insert were installed, along with a case/bracelet refinishing. As with all Rolex/Tudor servicing the work was done to impeccable standards, to the point where this watch looks practically new. The 37mm size is perfect for the slender man who finds a 40mm Submariner just a bit bulky, or a lady who likes a little more wrist presence. The navy blue dial with silver text and raised luminous markers is very complimentary with the brushed/polished stainless steel case. According to the serial number, this watch was manufactured around 1997. Rolex and Tudor used tritium for the luminous features during this period. After 25 years or so tritium loses its ability to glow in the dark. The hands and dial markers a clearly still phosphorescing strongly, suggesting the hands and dial were changed for more modern factory replacements. The new luminous material Rolex/Tudor now uses should retain the ability the glow for around 12-hour intervals once exposed to a bright light source. This temporary glowing function should last almost indefinitely. While not 100% original this mid-sized Submariner has been maintained through the factory with genuine replacement parts. It is operating as designed and keeping excellent time. Included with the purchase is our 1-year warranty (prorated 5-years). This watch is estate priced at $5,440.00 CAD. Stock #505-00220 e14676.

1951 Rolex Oyster 6098 with rare 7206-80 early Submariner Bracelet $7,000.00 CAD. 505-00374

We’ll get to the watch in a minute, but the really interesting thing about this one is the very rare 20mm 7206 Oyster link bracelet. This bracelet would have originally been delivered on an early 5512 or 5513 Submariner from the 1960s. How it ended up on a 1951 Rolex Oyster 6098 is a mystery to us along with the previous owner. The rugged nature of the Rolex Submariner was somewhat at odds with the lightweight riveted Oyster link bracelet of the era. The heavy case and sporting character of the Submariner wore out these Swiss-made bracelets in short order. Subsequent generations with folded links and the eventual evolution to modern solid-link Oyster bracelets meant these originals are very hard to find. The similar 19mm 7205 rivet bracelet found on 1960s Daytonas’ is actually quite a bit more common. I suppose the lifestyle of the Daytona-wearing gentleman racer wasn’t as rough as the Submariner crowd. This bracelet is notable because it still contains all 13 links, replacement links haven’t been available for decades. The only source for spare links is the second-hand market. It shows the appropriate amount of sag for a bracelet of this age and we’re happy to report there are no cracks in the buckle or hinge and no signs of modern laser welding repairs. The inside of the securely snap closing foldover buckle is clearly date stamped 1 66. If you want your 1960s Submariner to look period correct, this is a rare opportunity to pick up the correct bracelet. At the same time, you get a freshly serviced (March 2023) and equally uncommon 36mm Rolex Oyster 6098 to keep or trade back in. This watch is well worn but runs exceptionally well for being 72 years old. It does however have a few details we should point out. The original dial has been refinished at some point. The dial looks great and has been redone to a high standard, but still not quite to the original Rolex standards. The text is just not quite crisp enough and lacks the fine serifs found on the original Rolex text. The waterproof tube and crown are not original and do not thread into the case. The tail on the blued steel second hand has been broken off but doesn’t affect the timekeeping performance in any way. We are offering the watch complete with the bracelet but will separate them if you wish.  Priced à la carte, the watch is $2,500.00 and the bracelet by itself is $4,500.00. The watch comes with our 1-year complimentary warranty. Old Oysters like this are a great first step into the Rolex collecting market and are always welcomed back on trade. For less than $3,000.00 there is no better way to purchase a true Rolex Oyster automatic wristwatch. Stock number #505-00374.

SOLD

May 4, 2023

1967 Rolex GMT-Master 1675, 1 owner with box & papers, $41,000.00 CAD. 505-00086

Every watch collection needs a cornerstone piece. For the Rolex collector that piece is likely a Daytona, a Submariner, or a GMT-Master. These three models are the holy trinity for anyone interested in Geneve’s most famous brand. Any 4-digit reference, plastic crystal, Rolex sports model is a rarity these days and seldom come to market. Our latest estate Rolex is a very special example of a Rolex 1675 GMT-Master. The watch dates from the second half of 1967 and has only had one owner since it was purchased brand new at Alteen’s Jewellery, Sydney Nova Scotia on December 19, 1968. It was a cherished possession for over 50 years and was carefully worn on a regular basis by its one and only owner. In the 1940s and 50s international travel was catching on and pilots required an easy way to keep track of local time and Greenwich meantime. GMT is a constant time that doesn’t change with the seasons and is the international reference point to which all local time zones are calculated. The simple rotating bezel can be rotated to show GMT using the second long red hour hand in a 24-hour format with the daylight hours indicated in the red zone and dark nighttime hours shown in blue. This simple format has been the standard display since the Rolex GMT-Master was introduced in 1954. This 1967 example is the best, most complete 1675 GMT we’ve ever had. It comes with a couple of accessories we’ve never ever seen before. Accompanying the watch is a small green plastic clip that would have attached to the Oyster bracelet when on display in the jeweller’s showcase. The first and only owner carefully preserved the original metal foil Rolex price tag of just $295.00 Canadian, and the foil “Swimpruf” Oyster tag. The back of the tag is labeled with some of the watch details and the corresponding serial number. All the other documents are original, correct and in very good to excellent condition. It is exceedingly rare to find any Rolex with this amount of original documentation. Completing the package are the inner/outer boxes and red plastic chronometer hang-tag, all in well-preserved condition. To our knowledge, the watch was only ever serviced through Rolex Canada. The case-back service etching confirms this statement as there is only one record, and it corresponds with a Rolex service guarantee tag and invoice receipt issued in June 1990 for $444.00. There are no missing chapters to the story of this watch. When serviced in 1990 at Rolex Canada it is assumed the “Pepsi” red/blue bezel insert was replaced, along with the crystal and date-ring. We believe the rest of the watch is original. The 13 link, folded/rivet bracelet is in excellent condition showing only minor sag and little stretch. The buckle is clearly stamped with a production date of 2/68. The matt black dial is absolutely perfect, with no stains, scuffs, or scratches of any kind. The 11 luminous tritium hour plots are completely intact, showing an even patina of a slight parchment hue. The four 18 karat white gold tritium hands match perfectly and are also in excellent condition. The more we examine the watch we more we appreciate the honest representation. Aside from a light surface cleaning we have left the watch in the condition presented to us. Light scratches and softening of the beveled case edges are to be expected for a watch that is 55 years old. It may be impossible to find a better example of a one-owner, GMT-Master. Never mind it is Canadian delivered, this may be one of the best, most complete vintage GMTs available anywhere. We’ll let the pictures do some talking. Rolex sports watches have turned out to be an unlikely investment for more than 60 years. Values for watches like this have increased in double digit factors. Excellent condition, collectible Rolex watches have always seemed expensive, except in hindsight. We are happy to provide the next owner with a complimentary 1-year warranty (pro-rated for 5 years). This wonderful collector GMT-Master 1675 is estate priced at $41,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00086.

April 30, 2023

2002 Rolex Day-Date 36mm 118239 silver/Roman, box & papers $30,000.00 CAD. 505-00382

Everyone loves a little luxury in their life, but some aren’t as comfortable as others about wearing the flagship Rolex in gleaming yellow gold. The conspicuous statement of rich yellow gold has been part of its appeal for 1000s of years. A fancy car, a big house, fine clothes, or an exotic vacation are just some of the ways people choose to treat themselves. Any Rolex is a luxury, but doing it in solid 18-karat white gold is the most understated way to spoil yourself without being so obvious. We’ve sold many examples over the years of Rolex Day-Date models, with just a few exceptions they have always been made of yellow gold. In Rolex hierarchy, the Date-Day is the top of the line. There is no such thing as an entry-level Day-Day in stainless steel or even a mix of gold and stainless, just precious gold or platinum is your only option. A quick surf to the Rolex website shows a starting price for a 36mm Day-Date in yellow gold of $41,400.00 CAD. It’s somewhat ironic that the stealthy under the radar white gold version will cost you an extra $3,500.00 to make a more subtle statement. But perhaps that is what a white gold Rolex is all about anyway. Of the few white gold examples we’ve had over the years this is the first one to feature the complete tone on tone look with a sophisticated silver dial with Roman numerals. This Day-Day model number 118239 dates from 2002 according to its Y series serial number. It was originally purchased in Germany in 2006 as the endorsed paperwork shows. It remains in excellent condition, showing minor wear only. After a full service in the summer of 2021, it is running like new and looking practically new too. Its 36mm size is the traditional dimension for a Day-Day that fits the wrists of both men and women alike. The 22-link President style bracelet is exclusive to the Day-Date model and is another subtle hint that this isn’t your garden variety Rolex Oyster. The bracelet shows only a hint of sag and no stretch of any kind. The concealed clasp is a marvelous bit of mechanical engineering. The spring-loaded release trigger is the Rolex coronet logo itself. The locking mechanism works without steel springs (susceptible to corrosion and failure), instead relying on the natural spring tension of the proprietary Rolex gold alloy. Even on something as simple as a bracelet clasp, Rolex engineers provide elegant solutions that are functional and built to last a lifetime. This watch comes with its original inner and outer boxes, fully endorsed punched paper warranty/chronometer certificate, and Rolex service card with the balance of the 2-year international service warranty. Running like new with all functions operating as designed. We are happy to provide the next owner with an additional 1-year warranty (prorated 5 years). This uncommon 18-karat white gold Rolex Day-Date is estate priced at $30,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00382.

April 28, 2023

2013 Rolex Air-King 114200 blue/Arabic (never worn with stickers) $10,250.00 CAD. 505-00332

Current collectible or future collectible? Without a doubt, it’s both. The Rolex Air-King has been around in one form or another for more than 75 years. This basic looking oyster case Rolex was first labeled Air-King as a tribute to Britain’s Royal Air Force who participated in the battle of Britain. The RAF pilots of the time preferred using the Rolex oyster over the standard issue lower quality watches. The robust design and relatively large case size made them the perfect pilot tool for quick time interpretation. If you visit your local Rolex agent to buy a modern 34mm 114200 you’ll notice the dial no longer reads Air-King. The traditional 34mm size/style Oyster Perpetual “Air-King” era looks to be over making this example one of the last of its generation as it was purchased brand new in July 2013. This model Air-King actually measures 35mm by digital micrometer despite what Rolex literature says. It was given as a corporate award but never used by the recipient. It remains in unworn/as-delivered condition for close to 10 years now. The protective plastic stickers are still in place undisturbed. Rolex has a current policy that EVERY single protective sticker must be removed before the customer leaves the store. You never see modern Rolex watches on the secondary market with transparent stickers on the case and bracelet. The watch even comes with the clear plastic bezel guard. Scrambled serial number, late production date, more uncommon blue/Arabic dial, presentation box, fully endorsed warranty card, documents, chronometer tag, and plastic product tag all in perfect condition guarantee this a very desirable example.  I love the blue and it’s so nice I almost want to keep it for myself. It reminds me of something my Dad used to say, “Never fall in love with your inventory”. So with those words in mind, we are offering this amazing example for $10,250.00 CAD including a complimentary 1-year warranty (prorated for 5 years). Stock #505-00332.

April 26, 2023

2000 Rolex Daytona 116518 18kt. gold mother of pearl dial $41,500.00 CAD. 505-00095

The ultimate luxury sports watch is without a doubt an 18-karat yellow gold Rolex Daytona. The Daytona Cosmograph is a watch of legend, the mythical unicorn for the average watch collector. Many of our watch enthusiast customers have never even seen one in person. Despite what you’ve heard, they aren’t all that rare, you just don’t see them very often. A quick look on a popular watch resale website has over 9000 currently for sale; that’s right nine thousand! A Daytona is actually one of the most common watches offered for sale on the secondary market. The only difficulty obtaining one is coming up with the extra $20,000.00 to $25,000.00 you’re going to need to buy the least expensive used one you’re likely to encounter. For that princely sum, you should be able to find one, but it won’t be 18-karat gold and it will be lacking the original Rolex warranty paperwork. A truly rare Daytona would be an early manual wind model from the 1960s through the mid-1980s, if you want one of those, be prepared to part with 6 figures for a reasonable example. But even a stem wind Daytona is easier to find than something like our most recent estate Rolex. A solid 18-karat gold Daytona is a very rare watch; one with its original paperwork and amazing mother-of-pearl dial represents under 1% of all the Daytona Cosmographs available in the marketplace today. If you narrow down the search to Arabic numeral hour markers (non-Roman), we can find just 1 currently available besides ours. The absolutely garden variety steel versions capture all the headlines and attention but something like our latest estate watch is far more unique. The rare mother-of-pearl dial is what really sets this watch apart from the crowd. The genuine oyster shell dial added more than 10% to the basic cost of this already very expensive watch when new. With such a pricey option it’s no wonder it is almost never seen. The rich dial contributes so much to the luxury character of the watch, I’m so happy the original owner decided on it. The colourful pastel play of soft rainbow hues that cascades across the dial need to be seen in person. A still photograph simply can’t capture the beauty. The K serial number dates this watch to the turn of the millennium. The year 2000 also marked the debut of the first in-house developed Rolex chronograph, the calibre 4130. In well over 100 years of Rolex’s history, this is the first chronograph mechanism developed within the corporation. Rolex has pretty much always offered chronographs with stopwatch features, but the mechanical components have always been supplied by other manufacturers. With the release of calibre 4130 Rolex finally freed themselves from production limitations imposed by other companies. You’d think with the vast manufacturing capabilities of Rolex there shouldn’t be any problem meeting Daytona demand. Such is not the case; in fact, it’s become even more difficult to find a Daytona at your local Rolex boutique since 2000. This watch has always had waiting lists. Since the new movement was introduced there is more demand than ever. The traditional debossed tachymeter bezel is a feature that connects this watch to the original Daytona dating back to the early/mid-1960s. Many people still haven’t totally warmed up to the modern look of the new ceramic bezels found on a contemporary version. This one also has thin hands, a characteristic linking it to all the classics that came before. The use of “skinny” hour and minute hands ceased sometime around 2004 when Rolex started installing slightly wider hands. The overall condition of the watch is quite good. It does show scuffs and scratches associated with years of careful use but nothing that could be described as anything more than appropriate patina. The original black crocodile strap is included and shows significant wear, but not unexpected considering the 2003 delivery date. The previous owner installed a genuine Rolex alligator replacement strap in a deep chestnut brown colour as shown. It has only been worn a handful of times since the new strap was installed. Besides the watch, the most valuable and equally rare item is the dealer endorsed chronometer certificate/warranty document. The rare punched paper signed certificate comes from Rolex authorized agents Wempe Jewellers Hamburg Germany (07/08/03). Original documentation is rare with vintage Rolex. Boxes, booklets, instructions, and every other Rolex accessory can be purchased online, but there can only be one original warranty document and this one has it. Our master watchmaker performed a full overhaul of the intricate mechanism in the summer of 2021. An electronic Vibrograf timing report and vacuum/pressure testing results show the watch is performing to new specifications. Included with the watch are a complimentary 1-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty (prorated for 5-years), inner/outer Rolex boxes, and a document wallet. The estate price is $41,500.00 CAD. Stock #505-00095.

April 22, 2023

2022 Rolex Datejust 28mm 279174 pink champagne perfect condition $11,495.00 CAD. 505-00387

I’d estimate for every lady’s Rolex that shows up in part of our estate collection we showcase around ten men’s models. We just don’t get them very often, so when a perfect example shows up, it’s pretty exciting for us. Rolex retired the classic 26mm Lady Datejust a few years ago and replaced it with this version of the iconic design. It looks the same but now measures 28mm in diameter in keeping with the larger size preferences of today’s clients. This is still a small watch perfect for the average to petite feminine frame. It may be smaller in size but not in function. Contained within the 100-meter watertight 904L grade stainless steel case is Rolex’s in-house chronometer grade movement. The Jubilee style bracelet is an upgraded option over the basic Oyster style and the preferred choice of most women. The optically perfect lab-grown sapphire crystal is super hard and features an integrated magnifying lens for the calendar display. Hands and hour markers are crafted from Rolex’s proprietary 18-karat white gold alloy and treated with bright luminous pigment allowing for east time interpretation in any lighting condition. A concealed crown clasp buckle disappears into the comfortable and flexible bracelet. The pink champagne dial is beautiful, sophisticated, and not too pink. Framing to dial is the iconic solid 18-karat white gold fluted bezel that sparkles and twinkles with the slightest movement of the wrist. This watch was sold new in Canada in the late fall of 2022. It was literally only worn on 2 or 3 occasions and remains in like new condition. Not even an adjustment screw in the bracelet has ever been turned. It is covered under the terms of Rolex’s 5-year international warranty until almost the end of 2027. Comes complete with inner/outer boxes, a fully endorsed warranty card, an instruction booklet, a worldwide service document, a card holder, and a plastic chronometer hang tag. This like-new Rolex is estate priced at $11,495.00 CAD. Stock #505-00387.

April 20, 2023

1994 Rolex Explorer II 16570 40mm on Rubber B strap $10,300.00 CAD. 505-000329

Some may consider adding a custom bright red rubber strap to a classic Rolex sacrilege, but we love it. Maybe not for year-round use but it certainly adds a bit of playfulness to the sometimes stuffy world of collectible Rolex watches. For many Rolex aficionados, there is an 11th commandment, and it goes a little something like this; ” thou shall not modify”. This is true for most modifications to a Rolex as they usually adversely affect the value of the watch. A custom diamond dial or bezel may achieve the look you want, but it adds little to no value if you ever want to trade it in. An innocuous rubber strap like this Rubber B can easily be removed and replaced with the original stainless steel Oyster bracelet in just a couple of minutes. No harm no foul in our books with this upgrade. Rubber B straps are high quality purpose built accessories designed to fit perfectly. The contoured ends sit securely within the dimensions of the lugs and look like they were equipped at the factory, utilizing the original spring bars and Rolex fliplock buckle. The rest of this popular Rolex Explorer II is pretty standard stuff. The perfect condition tritium dial and hands are original and blemish free. There are no scratches on the sapphire crystal and the 12-link Oyster bracelet shows practically no sag and zero stretch. The watch has been carefully refinished and it looks much younger than its true age of 28 years would suggest. The Explorer II is a dual time model that can display a second time zone in a 24 hour format using the second red hour hand in combination with the easy to read 24-hour fixed bezel. The watch is running great and keeping excellent time. It’s a rugged watch with features that have made Rolex number 1 in the luxury watch world. Water resistant oyster case made from super resistant 904L stainless steel. Bright white hands and markers made from 18 karat white gold make time interpretation quick and effortless, as long as you’re not in the dark. Vintage Rolex like this lose their ability to phosphoresce in the dark as the tritium pigment becomes ineffective after about 20-25 years. If you’d like it to glow again, Rolex will happily sell you a replacement dial/hands with the exchange of the original for an updated face with long-lasting glowing material. This would be considered a mistake by almost all Rolex collectors as a permanent change lowers the value. This is the curious world of collectible Rolex, improving the watch can lower its value. This 16570 Explorer II is running well with all functions operating as designed. It comes with our complimentary 1-year mechanical warranty. Included with purchase are the complete Rubber B packaging, some Rolex documents, inner/outer boxes, and the pillow with a blanket, all in very good condition. Bright and playful one minute, subtle and classic the next. This vintage Rolex watch is estate priced at $10,300.00 CAD. Stock #505-00329.

April 19, 2023

1987 Rolex Air-King-Date 34mm 5700N $7,200.00 CAD. 505-00379

The Rolex Air-King-Date was a favorite of thrifty Canadians since the model was introduced in the late 1950s until it was retired toward the end of the 1980s. It remains the only Air-King ever produced with an additional function to the simple 3 hand time display. From what we know, the Air-King-Date was only produced for the frugal commonwealth market. It seems Canada and other commonwealth countries desired a date feature on our Rolex watches but didn’t want to pay up for a chronometer-rated mechanism that added extra cost. We see examples of these watches quite often around here but they are seldom encountered in major American and European markets. This one is a local watch that was originally delivered in Toronto at an authorized Rolex in the summer of 1987. It remains in original, lightly worn condition. We don’t believe the watch has ever been refinished or polished. The sharp case and bracelet details are still crisp underneath the expected surface patina of light shallow scratches and scuffs associated with over 30 years of use. The sturdy 13-link Oyster bracelet shows very little sag and no stretch. The classic silver sunburst dial is absolutely perfect, there is not a blemish or stain to be seen. The no longer luminous tritium hour plots and 18-karat white gold hour markers are completely intact. The white gold hands appear original. The second hand shows some surface oxidation staining. The threaded twinlock crown turns almost 2 full rotations before popping into the winding position. The savvy Rolex collector will notice the vintage-look date ring with its “open” 6s and 9s. The bottom and top loops are not connected to the vertical component as you’d see on modern Rolex. The buckle date code reads K9 which translates to an accepted 1986 production time. The 34mm case (34.4mm by actual measurement) is a versatile size suitable for men and women. This watch comes with its original endorsed warranty card, calendar card, and wallet. The watch is running great and keeping very good time. Including a 1-year warranty (prorated 5 years), this uncommon Rolex is estate priced at $7,200.00 CAD. Stock #505-00379.

April 13, 2023

Tudor Style M12700, 41mm, never worn. $2,295.00 CAD. 505-00085

Tudor and parent company Rolex make some of the industry’s most desirable watches. Their products that seem to get all the headlines are the sporty Professional models that feature gadgets and over the top specifications that the majority will never use or require. Most people don’t even realize Tudor and Rolex have a more gentle, comfortable, and ultimately practical line of watches. Rolex has the Cellini and Tudor have their Style line buried within their website. Our latest estate watch offers everything you need and nothing you don’t. A large 41mm case constructed from stainless steel, a synthetic sapphire crystal offering perfect optics and is much harder than any ordinary glass crystal. Reflective, faceted hands offer good contrast with the glossy lacquer dial, a screw-down crown, and a threaded case back provide a water-resistance rating of 100 meters. Handy features like a sweeping seconds hand, calendar, and easy to use deployment buckle with fliplock safety make daily wear a pleasure. The folding clasp is a luxury touch providing better security than a tang style buckle and helping the high-quality leather to last longer. The watch is in unworn condition, not a scratch can be seen on the watch. The protective case-back sticker is still in place. The watch comes with the original inner/outer box, foam liner, and instruction booklet but no warranty card. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers is happy to provide a complimentary 1-year warranty for the new owner. Estate priced at $2,295.00 CAD. Stock #505-00085.

April 6, 2023

2021 18kt. white gold 36mm Rolex Day-Date diamond dial & bezel 128349RBR $56,000.00 CAD. 505-00304

For some people, a watch is a redundant relic from a bygone era. Accessing the accurate time is as easy as checking your phone. For certain specific professional applications, an analogue wristwatch is a mandatory piece of equipment for times when pulling out your phone for reference can not only be impractical, but it can also be potentially dangerous. For most people who still wear and love wristwatches, they can be a handy tool, a piece of jewellery, an investment, a fashion accessory, or all of those things. From Timex to Rolex, watch manufacturers produce as many styles for as many tastes and for every budget. When it comes to the flagship model from Rolex, the Day-Date is the top of the line. The Day-Date has only ever been manufactured in precious metal. If you’d like a day of the week displayed on your Rolex, you can only get it in 18 karat gold or platinum. I’m sure we’ve sold 100s of Rolex Date-Date watches over the past 6 decades doing business here in Downtown Barrie, but this is only the second one made from white gold that anyone here can recall. When you’re paying this amount for a watch, almost everyone goes for the traditional yellow gold look. White gold is the subtle choice when it comes to a Day-Date. Unless you’re familiar with Rolex, most would assume this was just another stainless steel Rolex (if it was even recognized as such), or perhaps just another fashion watch with some crystal bling. Those in the loop will instantly see this watch as something very special indeed. This is much more than the basic 36mm, 18 karat, white gold Day-Date. This watch features a spectacular white mother of pearl dial with 8 round single cut diamonds and 2 baguette cut diamonds to plot out the hours. Surrounding the iridescent natural pearl dial is the upgraded diamond set bezel. The bezel contains 52 exceptional quality round brilliant cut natural diamonds weighing approximately 1.50 carats in total. Many people incorrectly refer to the Day-Date watch as “The President”, the name really only refers to the style of the bracelet. This bracelet debuted with the arrival of the first Rolex Day-Date in 1956. It wasn’t until the mid-1960s when U.S. President Lyndon Johnson wore the model that the “President” moniker appeared. In an advertisement campaign of time, Rolex wrote ”the presidents’ watch”. Ever since, the name stuck for both the Day-Date and the Day-Date bracelet, although the name originally referred to just the bracelet. Our latest 36mm Day-Date model number 128349RBR dates from the summer of 2021, as per the endorsed warranty card. It was occasionally worn by the previous owner from time to time. It remains in very good condition and does show some evidence of use. There are small scuffs and scratches on the case and bracelet. There is a tiny chip on the raised edge of the sapphire crystal at the 33-minute position mark that is all but invisible. One of the adjustment links has a decent sized scratch that can easily be removed along with any other blemishes. As always, we prefer to present our watches in their original unpolished condition. The back of the case lugs displays all the gold hallmark stamps in perfect detail. The President bracelet with locking/integrated buckle has never been removed from the case.  The watch features Rolex’s new generation 3255 automatic movement. According to Rolex, the 31 jewel mechanism is 90% new and holds 14 patents. Its 70-hour power reserve is 50% longer than the previous generation with an accuracy rating 50% better than the already stringent industry standards for Certified Chronometer designation. White gold Day-Date watches are rarely seen around here. This example remains under the 5-year Rolex international warranty until the summer of 2026. It comes complete with the original box, full paperwork with an endorsed warranty card, and a Rolex shopping bag. The large presentation box is in perfect condition. This box doubles as an eight compartment jewellery box to hold any other of your treasures. Any Rolex qualifies as a high quality watch, this one is so much more. This diamond masterpiece is also a magnificent item of jewellery made to last generations. This estate watch is priced at $56,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00304.

2016 Rolex Air-King 114210 34mm like new $8,500.00 CAD. 505-00259

Current collectible or future collectible? Without a doubt, it’s both. The Rolex Air-King has been around in one form or another for about more than 75 years. This basic looking oyster case Rolex was first labeled Air-King as a tribute to Britain’s Royal Air Force who participated in the battle of Britain. The RAF pilots of the time preferred using the Rolex oyster over the standard issue lower quality watches. The robust design and relatively large case size made them the perfect pilot tool for quick time interpretation. If you visit your local Rolex agent to buy a modern 34mm Oyster Perpetual you’ll notice the dial no longer reads Air-King. The new 34mm Oyster comes only with basic stick hour markers, gone are the beautiful Arabic 3,6 & 9 indices. The traditional 34mm size/style Oyster Perpetual “Air-King” era looks to be over making this example one of the last as it was purchased brand new on August 31, 2016. Previously owned by a long time client of Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers who cautiously used the watch from time to time. The watch is in immaculate condition virtually unworn. Scrambled serial number, late production date, and the uncommon engine turned bezel version. It comes complete with the inner/outer box, white cardboard sleeve, paperwork, chronometer tag, plastic product tag, and Rolex shopping bag all in perfect condition guaranteeing this is a most desirable example.  I love the silver dial tone on tone look with the mostly brushed stainless steel. It’s so nice I almost want to keep it for myself. It reminds me of something my Dad used to say, “never fall in love with your inventory”. So with those words in mind, we are offering this amazing example for $8,500.00 CAD including a complimentary 1-year warranty. Stock #505-00259.

April 5, 2023

1954 Rolex Oyster 6332 34mm rare model $4,750.00 CAD. 505-00337.

Basic Rolex Oysters with automatic movements have been around for more than 75 years. They feature simple and functional dials with only a time display. Over the decades Rolex occasionally updated the design of the hands and continually offered dials with different types of hour markers. Stick, square, arrow-shaped, Arabic, Roman, faceted, tapered, combinations, and luminous versions of hour markers all were featured over the decades. This rare Rolex showcases a parchment coloured, stepped dial with faceted pointed hour markers, and minute markers inboard the hour markers. The faceted dauphine-style hands display some pitting patina. The raised text ROLEX logo isn’t something seen on modern models and helps to distinguish this as a vintage model. The 34mm case size is midsized by modern standards but considered a typical size for a gentleman’s watch of the era. As tastes moderate, we’re seeing renewed interest by men and women in the 34 to 36mm sizes. The 13 folded link Oyster style bracelet will fit anyone with a wrist size of up to 8 inches. The 18-jewel caliber 645 is working well. These early Rolex automatic movements are not the prettiest but they are still excellent performers with many earning certified chronometer status. The automatic module covers many of the beautifully finished components that are on display in the later calibres. These mid-century Rolex Oysters are great for anyone looking for something a little bit out of the ordinary. They are also a great place to enter the Rolex collecting hobby at a lower price point. Including a 1-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty, this vintage Rolex is estate priced at $4,750.00 CAD. Stock #505-00337.

April 1, 2023

2022 Tudor Pelagos FXD 42mm titanium 25707B (never worn) $6,100.00 CAD. 505-00293

The Tudor Pelagos FXD 265707 is not just another capable diver’s watch. This one was truly developed as a Professional diver’s underwater navigation tool. On Tudor’s website, they explain underwater like this: “Underwater navigation consists of reaching a precise location by sea, without surfacing, by following a meticulously planned route. Divers carry out this underwater navigation in pairs, connected to one another by a strap known as a “life line”, and complete a series of straight swims guided by a magnetic compass. They swim at a constant speed for a set time in each section, completing as many sections as necessary whilst timing each one exactly. Underwater navigation entails restarting a countdown at each change of course. The anticlockwise graduation and luminescence of the bezel of this model make it easy to set up and monitor each countdown, by aligning the time set for the section to be covered on the bezel with the minute hand. When the minute hand arrives opposite the triangle, the team changes course and the diver in charge of timing begins the next countdown. The Pelagos FXD has also been fitted with a large bezel ring, which exceeds the diameter of the case for optimum grip, even with neoprene gloves and hands that are numb from long dives in cold water.” There you have it underwater navigation 101 by Tudor. This watch is officially supplied equipment for the Marine Nationale (French Navy). Its robust design, ease of function, and information interpretation couldn’t be more suited to the tasks asked of it. The FXD refers to the case design with its FiXeD lugs exclusively for use with NATO-style one-piece straps. Traditional springbar equipped watches can fall off if a bar breaks, bends, or somehow comes dislodged. The titanium case measures around 41mm in diameter, but the bezel measures 43mm according to our micrometer. The extra overlap makes countdown timer adjustment extra easy. The glowing characteristics are not reserved for the dial or part of the bezel. The entire bezel ring is treated with some of the most luminous material we’ve ever seen. Beating within the case is Tudor’s in-house developed, automatic winding, 25 jewel, calibre MT5602. This movement dates from 2015 and can be found in every 3-hand Tudor Chronometer. It runs at an industry standard 28,800 cycles per hour but provides an extra long 70 hours of power reserve. Its silicon hairspring is anti-magnetic and is something you don’t see in many watches in this price range. Tudor’s MT series (Manufacture Tudor) frees them from the limitations of sourcing movements from outside makers that are often the competition. This watch has never been worn and is in perfect condition. It comes complete with boxes, tags, documents, an endorsed warranty card, both straps, and even a Tudor shopping bag (not shown). The new owner will benefit from the balance of the 5-year warranty until April 2027. This watch is estate priced at $6,100.00 CAD. Stock #505-00293.

March 8, 2023

1972 Tudor Oyster Princess 22mm 7586/3 freshly serviced $1,890.00 CAD. e14643

The Rolex/Tudor Oyster case isn’t usually thought of as a tiny watch. Throughout the 97 year history of the Oyster, there have always been more delicate, prettier, less expensive, more fashionable alternatives, but for durability and water- resistance the original 1926 design has stood the test of time. Our latest estate watch is the smallest Oyster case Tudor we have ever seen. This watch measures just a little over 22mm in diameter, yet comes with the same features as the gent’s full-sized models from the era. Not many lady’s watches from the 1970s could go from the formal dinner party to snorkeling in the ocean as well as a Tudor Oyster Princess. This watch is in excellent condition and shows its 50 years of age very well. The 18 karat fluted bezel is sharp and crisp. The silver dial is perfect except for one of the once luminous hour plots (4:00) is almost totally missing. The rare Oyster 7834 bracelet shows only minor sag with some stretch. Two of the folded links have been repaired at some point over the years. This watch will accommodate a feminine wrist measuring up to 16.5cm in circumference. Our master watchmaker just performed a full overhaul of the automatic winding mechanism within the petite case. After the service, the watch is running well and keeping good time. Tudor could no longer supply a new replacement threaded crown and waterproof tube, so we had to supply after-market substitutes. When subjected to vacuum and pressure testing, the watch still easily passed to original requirements. The watch comes with Vibrograf timing and water resistance reports. Including our 1 year warranty (prorated for 5 years), this rare Tudor is estate priced at $1,890.00 CAD. Stock #e14643.

March 6, 2023

Rolex 5501 Explorer ***RARE*** 34mm with box $19,460.00 CAD. e11829

We don’t toss out the 3-star ***rare*** headline very often. Rolex Oyster Perpetual 5501 is quite rare but one with a white honeycomb dial is exceptionally rare. With collectible Rolex, the dial is practically everything. The dial on this one is very original and in very good condition. These textured Explorer dials with gold markers are thought to have been exclusively produced for the Canadian market. Even so, we’ve never seen another example of this dial before and likely never will see one again. According to the previous owner the watch was used for about a decade and then left in a drawer for the next 40 plus years. The watch is running great despite being quite dry. If it is to be used regularly we suggest a full service to the original 25 jewel Rolex calibre 1530. This service will be performed at no charge to the new owner. The long term storage story seems to make sense as the inside case back shows only one or two service records. When a watch is serviced the technician usually etches a code on the inside of the case. The inside shows the usual Rolex factory stamping with production date code (1st quarter of 1961) but almost no other etchings. It’s nice to see an original watch movement that hasn’t been messed around with. The watch came to us in what we believe to be its original and equally rare burgundy red hinged Rolex box. As the legend goes this watch sat in the box unused since the late 1960s. The condition of the box is practically like new. The red velvet display card with the Rolex logo is crisp and sharp edged. Submariner, Daytona, and GMT-Master are the Rolex watches that get all the headlines. The smaller size 34mm Explorer models have always been a watch for the hardcore collector. I’m sure there are more than a few collectors looking at this watch that never even knew something like this existed. The dressy Explorer dial with 14 karat gold fluted bezel (also in great condition) set it apart as one of the rarest models you’re likely to encounter. We love the rare 7205 riveted bracelet with 57 end pieces. As was the Rolex practice during the 60s these bracelet links were assembled from flat and folded sections of sheet stainless steel riveted together. The hollow nature of the design made them somewhat fragile and prone to dents and wear of decades of use. As Rolex manufacturing techniques improved these original bracelets were replaced with solid link versions. Most vintage Rolex have had their original bracelets replaced with modern replacements over the years. The buckle on this bracelet is date stamped 1967. Its condition is quite good for 52 years old. Showing a small amount of stretch, a little sage, and not too much lateral movement. Including a one year mechanical warranty, the watch is estate priced at $19,460.00 CAD. Stock #e11829.

1990 Rolex Day-Date President 18238 ultra rare glossular garnet & diamond dial $55,555.00 CAD 505-00104. e14302

Since 1956 the Rolex Day-Date has been the flagship of the prestigious brand from Geneva Switzerland. The basic form and perfect proportions have changed little in more than 65 years. While Rolex briefly offered a 41mm version of the watch, and now you can buy a basic 40mm model for $43,050.00 CAD, it’s the traditional 36mm that is the Goldilocks size; not too big and not too small, it’s juuuust right. At 36mm diameter and only available in weighty 18 karat gold or platinum, it has more wrist presence than you might expect. The current 40mm Day-Date weighs close to 1/2 a pound, making it a bit of a commitment to wear every day. Our latest Day-Date still weighs in at a substantial 142.5 grams, so you know you’re wearing it but it isn’t a task or cumbersome. Model 18238 was produced from 1988 until 2000 and was the first version to feature a double quickset calendar, both the day and date can be adjusted without affecting the time. A visit to a Rolex boutique will often showcase a champagne dial, Day-Date in a beautifully lit museum display case or window. We even have a sidewalk sign displaying a vintage Day-Date from the 1960s. There is no other model that defines the Rolex experience better than a Day-Date. Our latest Day-Date with classic President bracelet is by far the most significant example to ever have passed through these doors, and this is its second go around. We sold this watch for the first time in 2005 for $20,000.00. After 16 years of special occasion use, the previous owner decided it was time for someone else to take over stewardship duties. When selecting a Day-Date, most people choose the iconic fluted bezel, president bracelet, and champagne dial. Occasionally we see them with a white, silver, or black dial. For those who want a little more bling, diamond markers and an iridescent pearl dial can be had. For someone looking for a more bespoke look in the 1980s and 90s, Rolex offered dials crafted from wood and exotic stones. Black onyx, lapis lazuli, tigers eye, turquoise, malachite, jasper, coral, and other mineral dials were available to make your Day-Date a little more unique. For a truly out-of-this-world look, you can even get a dial cut from a section of meteorite. Those dials are uncommon and downright rare, but our grossular garnet dial with diamond hour markers is virtually unique. After much online research, we could only find a couple of other examples. From documents supplied with the watch from Rolex, we feel this dial was a $6,800.00 option no later than July 2006. This watch was cautiously worn by careful owners who obviously treated it as an important, cherished possession. The condition of this watch dating from 1990 is remarkable. It was treated to a full factory service in 2012 through a Rolex authorized agent. The fluted bezel is sharp and crisp, and the 25-link bracelet exhibits almost no sag and will fit a wrist with a circumference of up to 21cm. While the watch has seen at least one professional refinishing when serviced at Rolex, the case and bracelet details remain in practically new condition. A telltale sign of a Rolex that has been excessively polished and refinished is the “frog toes” Rolex coronet logo on the buckle. Over the years even unpolished watches will lose definition on the buckle logo, the logo on this watch is almost perfect. The position of the buckle release trigger causes it to continuously be subjected to wear and tear. Once worn down it is impossible to recover unless you replace the entire buckle. With the significant increases in value experienced by all Rolex over the years, we wonder what lies ahead for this watch, and who will be the next owner. Will it go to someone who loves the unique look of the purplish dial or to the Rolex investor searching for something far rarer than even a vintage Paul Newman Daytona. This is a watch that we are tempted to just hang on to as I’m sure we’ll never see another. To see a short YouTube video of this watch, click here. The meticulous previous owner kept every document that we supplied to him 16 years ago. It comes with the original instruction booklet, 2 polishing cloths from different eras, chronometer hang-tag, bill of sale from 2005, Rolex service papers 2012, service booklet with warranty card, service travel pouch, various other documents, and the original wood lined presentation box. While the package is missing the original agent-endorsed warranty paperwork, we feel this is the most complete and best example of this extremely rare dial Day-Date on the market. Including a one-year warranty (prorated for 5 years) this unique piece of vintage Rolex history is estate priced at $55,555.00 CAD. Stock #505-00104.

March 5, 2023

1986 Rolex Oyster Precision 6694 hand wind $7,000.00 CAD. 505-00362

Before there were smartphones, radio-controlled satellites, quartz, and even electronic timing technology, we had wind-up watches. This antique timekeeping technology worked great for hundreds of years. Even today some popular watches still require manual winding. No batteries, no capacitors, and no electronic components that eventually fail; in many cases, these old machines are more reliable and serviceable than a modern watch. Just try to find a replacement circuit for your 1980s electronic watch when stops working. In fact, we have more success restoring 200-year-old pocket watches than 1970s battery operated watches. The 17 jewel calibre 1225 movement in this Rolex has only been serviced once in its 37 years. The previous owner thought it wouldn’t be a bad idea to have Rolex overhaul the movement in 2015. It was working fine and still kept great time, but every few decades of very occasional use a thorough mechanical cleaning is a great idea. This time capsule watch has only been worn a handful of times each year by just 2 previous owners. This type of reliability would be tough to expect on any modern electronic watch. The 2015 service invoice for $726.00 (plus tax) comes included with the purchase. I’m sure this watch spent 99% of its life in the original box. A perfect condition silver dial with 18 karat hash mark hour makers and stick hands will never go out of style. The basic timekeeping information only along with a 31-day calendar keeps the dial clear and uncluttered. Only 3 lines of perfect text break up the beautiful sunburst finish. Rolex may have marketed this watch as a 34mm case size but in reality, it measures 35.2mm across the narrowest diameter. On the wrist, it wears a little larger due to its slightly thinner case and light coloured dial. This size is appropriate for a man who doesn’t need to have the biggest watch at the dinner party or a lady who would like a little more size on her wrist. The 6694 Oyster Precision was in the Rolex lineup from the very late 1950s until the late 1980s with only a few updates along the way. The bracelet changed from riveted links, to folded links, and finally to solid links like this example. These watches are an important part of Rolex history as they represent the last of the hand wind Oysters, and this one from 1986 is the best we’ve ever seen. It could pass for new old stock. There is no component on this watch that wouldn’t be described as in excellent condition. Only the plastic crystal exhibits a few tiny scuffs that could easily be polished away. The original wood lined box is like new as is the outer cardboard box that still displays the appropriate stickers showing the model number and silver dot showing the dial is correct and original. The 13 link Oyster bracelet shows almost no sag and the buckle hinge is as tight as the day it left Rolex’s Geneva factory. In the late 1980s, a manual wind wristwatch seemed old fashion as quartz and automatic watches were more commonplace. Even the mighty Daytona abandoned wind-up technology for automatic winding in 1988 leaving the 6694 the only manual offering. These ultra-reliable and surprisingly accurate timepieces languished in dealer showcases into the early 1990s. Rolex likely stopped manufacturing them some years before, but it took time to sell off the remaining stocks. According to serial number 9150952, this watch was made around 1986, but it wasn’t purchased until the summer of 1990.  This is a local watch that was purchased in Toronto at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Despite a production run of 3 decades we seldom see these watches and never in this sort of condition. Needless to say, the watch is running flawlessly and keeping excellent time. We are happy to provide the next custodian of this remarkable museum-quality time capsule with a complimentary 1-year warranty. Estate priced at $7,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00362.

1964 Rolex Datejust 1601 golden brown dial black text $11,670.00 CAD. e11031

Pretty much any vintage Rolex is a desirable thing. Some of the professional models from the 1960s and 70s have seen their value escalate well into 6 figures for exceptional rare examples. The esteemed Geneva based company’s most popular offering has been somewhat left behind. The Datejust model was introduced in 1945 at the same time Rolex was celebrating their 40th anniversary. It was quite revolutionary for the era being the first chronometer grade automatic winding wristwatch to display the date in a small window on the dial. The name Datejust may seem a bit awkward, but it makes perfect sense given some thought. Most watches slowly turn over the date display starting around 10:00pm taking several hours to fully turn the disc to reveal the day of the month. Rolex produced a quick turn mechanism advancing the date in the blink of an eye within a few minutes of exactly midnight. This seemingly simple process makes the date display absolutely true and “just”, hence the unusual moniker. Modern Rolex production is estimated at around one million watches per year making a contemporary Datejust very common. This wasn’t always the case. It took Rolex 60 years to produce the first 1 million watches total production of all models. This example is serial number 1,071,990. After hours of scouring the internet and speaking with various Rolex aficionados no one has seen one like this before. The golden brown dial with black text is a colour combination we’ve never encountered. Occasionally vintage black dials from the period can turn a deep chocolate brown over time but these always have white or gold script lettering. Perhaps this was a silver or champagne dial with black writing that somehow colour shifted to this marvelous hue. If this is the case we can’t find another example anywhere. The luminous tritium plots are mostly intact and the period correct dauphine style hands with rare tapered ramped hour markers are also original. The rest of the watch is pretty much what you’d expect for a watch that was made in the fall of 1964. Wear and tear are appropriate on the case and fluted bezel. We don’t believe the watch has been refinished before. The USA made hollow link jubilee bracelet is showing the expected sag but this style of bracelet was never tight even when brand new. An original fold over buckle closes snugly with a satisfying click. Powering the watch is a 26 jewel Rolex manufactured calibre 1560 in excellent condition. There is no rotor rash scaring on the plates or case back. We just performed a full mechanical overhaul to the mechanism along with a successful vacuum test for water resistance after installing a new Rolex crystal. When servicing the watch we were careful to maintain the original finish on the case and bracelet. It can be refinished many times but it can only be original once. With pricing of used and estate professional models quickly becoming out of reach for most, vintage Datejusts could be the place to see the next wave of collector interest. Including a 1 year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty, this curious bit of Rolex history is estate priced at $11,670.00 CAD. Stock #e11031.

March 2, 2023

2004 Rolex Datejust 116203 36mm (June 2022 factory service) $12,750.00 CAD. 505-00248

If only your last used car came as well documented as this watch. Buying a preowned Rolex is much the same as buying a used car, except once you’re ready to move on the Rolex is still going to be worth a bunch of money. Condition and history are paramount considerations when it comes to purchasing anything that’s had a previous owner. This 1 owner Datejust 36mm 116203 was purchased new in Kitchener Ontario in December 2004. At that time this watch had a suggested retail price of $9,580.00 CAD. 18 years later this watch is an excellent value at $12,750.00 and shouldn’t last long. It was worn as a timekeeping tool by its previous owner every day. He kept to the Rolex maintenance schedule of a complete servicing to the automatic movement every 5-years. The original service invoices are included with the package. The second service was just performed at Rolex Canada in June 2022. Since the June 22 service, the watch hasn’t been worn and still has the protective plastic service stickers on the case! Included with the recent service was a professional refinishing of the 18 karat yellow gold and stainless steel case. The watch now looks practically new aside from only a little bit of sag/wear in the full length Oyster bracelet. Complete kit, 1 owner, Rolex watches are not that uncommon, but one with full factory service history is quite rare. You can rest assured the watch was serviced to Rolex’s high standards and will continue to function as a reliable luxury watch for decades to come. The classic two tone Datejust with the smooth bezel and sportier Oyster bracelet is much less common than the typical fluted bezel with the Jubilee bracelet we usually see. Needless to say, the watch comes with all its original documentation and packaging. The watch is covered by Rolex’s 2-year international service warranty. If you bought a used car 18 years ago for the cost of this watch, that car was likely scrapped ten years ago and you likely received a few hundred dollars for it. Buying a new or used Rolex often works out to be an unlikely but positive investment decision. If you’re considering buying a preowned Rolex this is a great example to consider. We’re always looking for good quality trade-ins. Bring us your old gold, silver, watches, diamonds, or other used jewellery. There is always room in our estate department for another previously enjoyed treasure. Once the Rolex service warranty expires in June of 2024, the balance of our 5-year prorated warranty will extend decreasing coverage until June 2027. This is now a retired model but the replacement model 126203 looks pretty much the same. This excellent example is estate priced at $12,750.00 CAD. Stock #505-00248.

2022 Rolex Datejust 36 126234 diamond dial (never worn) $17,340.00 CAD. 505-00238

It may look like a familiar watch but it’s actually somewhat new (at least by Rolex standards). Well, perhaps it is not completely new but rather an evolution of the most popular watch in the world. Much like the width of a gentleman’s tie or the length of a lady’s skirt, watch dimensions ebb and flow. This generation of the classic 36mm Datejust debuted in early 2018 with narrower lugs and slight tweaks to the case, dial, and bezel. It follows the traditional balanced look of the original 1945 Datejust. A more significant change can be found inside the 100m watertight Oyster case. The old calibre 3135 has been replaced with the all-new calibre 3235. A new movement isn’t something that happens very often for Rolex, the 3135 saw duty in the many Rolex watches from 1988 until 2019. The new movement isn’t an evolution of the 3135 as over 90% of the parts are redesigned or different. The 3235 features a completely new type of escapement (the heart of a movement), a modified barrel design that allows for a longer mainspring for an extended power reserve, a new winding module to increase efficiency, and tighter accuracy tolerances. In keeping with the Rolex philosophy of “in-house” manufacture, they have improved gear train efficiency by developing their own proprietary lubricants. Even though the movement is rarely seen and only by qualified watchmakers, they have even refined the aesthetic finishes on the mechanism. All these improvements ultimately provide the wearer with an extremely accurate, dependable, robust timepiece with a long 70-hour power reserve. They have even tightened up the accuracy tolerances to a claimed plus or minus of around 2 seconds per day. This Datejust is absolutely perfect in every way and has never been worn. It features the upgraded 18 karat white gold fluted bezel and factory diamond dial. The radial finish sunburst blue dial with the Oyster bracelet offers a slightly sportier look compared to the Jubilee style and the diamonds add a touch of sophisticated sparkle. Hidden under the embossed buckle is a clever extension that allows a 5mm length adjustment without the need for any tools, on days when a bit of extra room is more comfortable. At 36mm this watch is perfect for the lady who likes something a bit bigger but not a cartoon or the slim gentleman who doesn’t like the bulk of a 40mm Professional model. The watch comes with everything as delivered from the original authorized Rolex agent. Full documents, booklets, endorsed warranty card, inner/outer boxes, chronometer hang tag, foam box liner, white cardboard protective box sleeve, clear plastic bezel guard, and even a large Rolex shopping bag. There are still many of the original protective plastic stickers on the buckle, case back, and lugs. The next owner will benefit from the 5-year international Rolex warranty until the spring of 2027. While not as difficult to find as a Daytona or Submariner, a stainless steel with white gold, blue dial Datejust is not a watch seen often in the showcase of your local Rolex agent. This brand new, never worn, perfect condition Datejust 126234 is estate priced at $17,340.00 CAD. Stock #505-00238

March 1, 2023

2020 Rolex Datejust 41 126303 “Wimbledon” $16,500.00 CAD. 505-00002

Rolex and tennis have had an official association dating back to 1978 when they became the official timer of Wimbledon. That year Björn Borg took the title in straight sets. To this day you can see Björn in Rolex marketing material. Rolex and prestigious sporting events go hand in hand. Our newest estate Rolex has unofficially acquired its nickname “The Wimbledon” among the Rolex enthusiast community. This version is a late 2020 model and has only been worn a handful of times. I strongly suspect the unusual dial combination of printed two-tone Roman numbers against a dark grey radial finish would have come and gone with little fanfare as merely a DateJust II experiment if it was not for the unofficial promotion generated over the past few years. The original Datejust II was discontinued after only a few years but the peculiar dial has carried on with the Datejust 41 126303 and is now sought after. The basic rhodium dial has always been a consistent seller but adding the printed Roman numerals was a curious departure for the uber-conservative Rolex brand. The green framed, black Roman numerals are painted on so think they actually have height. And what’s with that giant single luminous marker at 9:00 o’clock? To some, it balances the 3:00 o’clock date aperture; to others, it just looks out of place. In the dark, you’ll need to train your eyes to realize this point of reference is 9:00 o’clock, not 12:00 o’clock. Either way, you look at it, this is a striking dial that is sure to get noticed. The current model really began its rise to popularity when Rolex ambassador Roger Federer was pictured wearing a version at one of his many victories. Our latest estate Rolex also features the popular and more sporty Oyster link bracelet. Concealed under the buckle is the Rolex “EasyLink”. This clever link allows a 5mm extension for those days when a touch more room makes the perfect fit. A large 41mm Rolex with a hard to find dial is obviously a look the market is seeking as these sell on the secondary market for a premium over new. The watch is completely original and 100% untouched, it has never been polished or touched up in any way. An endorsed warranty card and all packaging are included with the purchase. The factory warranty with cover the next owner until very late 2025. The watch comes with inner/outer boxes, instructions, warranty card, service booklet, foam box liner, hang tags, and a protective cardboard sleeve. Estate priced at $16,500.00 CAD (trade-ins are welcomed). Stock #505-00002.

February 28, 2023

1961 Rolex DateJust 1625 Thunderbird Turn O Graph $10,680.00 CAD. e13733

I’ve been baffled ever since I saw my first Turn O Graph; why isn’t this model more popular? In fact it’s never been a top seller since its 1953 introduction. There are a few who appreciate the added functionality of the two way timer bezel, but most who have purchased a Datejust opt for the simple fixed bezel varieties. I’m sure even Rolex can’t figure out why it hasn’t been more successful. They persisted with the model updating it for over 5 decades until it was recently retired a number years ago. Although not the most profitable watch from Rolex it is notable for a number of reasons. It was the first watch to introduce the concept of the rotating timer bezel for measuring elapsed time, way back in 1953. It is considered the father of the wildly successful Submariner diver model. It was also the first professional pilot watch. In the 1950s it was used by pilots for navigational calculations. Later in the same decade it became the official watch of the US Air Force acrobatic Thunderbird display team. The Turn O Graph is also known in North America as the Thunderbird due to this association. TOGs don’t show up very often and latest example is the oldest one we’ve ever had. The inside case back and buckle have matching date code stamps indicating produced in the second half of 1961. These early Thunderbirds like some of their regular Datejust cousins came with beautiful dauphine style hands and arrow shaped hour markers. These features along with the oxidized patina of the dial add to overwhelming vintage character of the watch. The rotating bezel is made from premium quality 18 karat white gold and displays a slight yellow hue compared to the stainless steel case and bracelet. There are a few scratches and dings on the soft gold bezel but overall the fine coin edge finish is crisp and sharp. The delicately machined bezel is a detail that really can not be refinished; the condition of this example speaks volumes of how the previous owner(s) looked after it. The rolled link Jubilee bracelet is also in very good condition, showing only minor lateral movement. There is no question this looks like a vintage watch, but for a sporty Rolex approaching 60 years of age it’s in remarkable condition. The 25 jewel calibre 1560 is functioning flawlessly inside the 36mm Oyster case. It’s low frequency of 18000 beats per hour is clearly visible as power pulses through the second hand. A Rolex Submariner from this era could easily exceed $50,000.00. Thunderbird Turn O Graphs are more scarce yet sell for a fraction of the price. I still feel these are the most useful watches ever produced by Rolex yet they are often overlooked and have never really shared the spotlight despite how innovative they were. Although Rolex are no longer producing the Turn O Graph I think we haven’t seen the last of them. Rolex have been know to reinvent past models. Included with purchase is a Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers one year warranty. This classic is estate priced at $10,680.00 CAD. Stock #e13733.

February 27, 2023

2000 Rolex Datejust 26 mother or pearl/diamond dial 79173 $10,200.00 CAD 505-00276

Admission into the Rolex club will cost you $14,500.00 CAD if you’re partial to the look of this iconic design, and you choose to buy a brand new one (model #279173). For that princely sum, you get to have your name on the warranty card, a watch that is 2mm larger than our 26mm estate example, a concealed buckle, and some other very minor style differences along with some mechanical updates. The fact that this Rolex is over 20 years old will come as a huge shock to almost anyone who looks at it. Rolex is more than just a watch manufacturer, they are an institution within the jewellery and luxury product industry. If you buy a Rolex, you can be confident you’ll not need another watch in your lifetime. Styles and trends come and go but a Rolex Oyster, Date, Datejust, or Day-Date will stand the test of time like nothing else. Datejusts have been the most popular model from the Geneva based company for over 75 years. Our latest estate example is in very good condition. The beautiful natural mother of pearl dial is an expensive option and seldom seen. Each MOP dial is unique and features a slightly different rainbow display of dispersed light over its pearl surface. The super hard/tough sapphire crystal is completely scratch free, without even the slightest nick on the sharp edges. These sapphire crystals sit off the bezel a touch, it is very common to see the edge chipped a little. Solid 18 karat yellow gold stick hands and hour markers are a standard Rolex feature. Most manufacturers use simple gold plated dial features, but in the Rolex tradition of luxury, only a premium 18 karat alloy is used. Each of the ten hour markers showcases an exceptional quality single diamond for an extra touch of sophisticated sparkle. The yellow gold fluted bezel with the 18 karat and steel jubilee bracelet has always been a best seller. The soft dial colour blend with any outfit and can be worn on any occasion. The long 22 link bracelet is showing some sag and a touch of stretch but has many decades of service left. This bracelet will accommodate a wrist size of up to  7 1/2 inches. At some point in the past, an overzealous watchmaker polished the back of the buckle a little more than we would have liked to see, resulting in the embossed Rolex coronet losing much of its detail.  For a significant discount compared to a new one, this watch is likely a better investment than buying new. The watch was recently treated to a comprehensive service (February 2022) that has it running like new. That new car you’ve been eyeing is going to depreciate more in a year than the total cost of this watch. Accompanying the watch is everything that originally came when delivered including the dealer-endorsed warranty/chronometer certificate, and the original bill of sale from Mappin & Webb at the Heathrow airport. The original owner had us provide an appraisal for insurance in the summer 0f 2015, our appraisal is included as part of this watch’s comprehensive history. The original purchase price was ₤3,914.89. It’s working great and keeping good time with all functions operating as designed. We are happy to include a complimentary one-year warranty (prorated for 5 years) for the next owner. This retired 26mm Lady Datejust is estate priced at $10,290.00 CAD. Stock number 505-00276.

February 25, 2023

2015 Tudor Heritage Ranger 79910, 41mm, perfect condition, $4,500.00 CAD. e14631

Tudor has been Rolex’s effort at capturing the mid-range luxury watch market since 1952 when they launched the first Tudor Oyster Prince. Focusing on that mid-market price point has allowed them to be a little more adventurous and diverse in their offerings, with something like the popular Black Bay mirroring Rolex’s iconic sporty diver look and this Heritage Ranger taking on the has sport/utility watch segment. Ranger model 79910 has an all-brushed finish with just a discreet polished edge on the bezel. A matte black dial with ultra legible luminous hands and markers that plot out only the essential time interpretation information, this watch doesn’t even come with a calendar display. The 41mm diameter case is equipped with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, screw-on case back, and screw-down crown embossed with the old logo Tudor rose. It’s powered by a Swiss-made Tudor Calibre 2824 (ETA 2824) that features a 38-hour power reserve. Tudor’s watchmakers upgrade the specification on the standard movement with better hairspring and a higher grade pallet fork. The mechanism is adjusted to within chronometer specifications without the official certification and extra cost associated. The Oyster case Ranger is water-resistant to 150 meters and was based on a design from the late 60s. Tudor offered the Heritage Ranger 79910 with four different factory-issued straps, two of which accompany this watch: the leather strap with folding steel buckle and flip-lock, plus the NATO-style, one-piece camouflage fabric strap with its own steel buckle (never been installed on the watch). This watch appears to be in unworn condition. There isn’t even the slightest scuff, scratch, or blemish on the case, buckle or strap. There are still some protective plastic stickers on the buckle and case back. It is accompanied by an inner/outer box, endorsed Canadian authorized agent warranty card (January 2015), documents, hangtag, paperwork, foam box liner, and even the original protective white cardboard box sleeve. Included with the purchase is a complimentary 1-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty (prorated 5-years). Estate price $4,500.00 CAD. Stock #e14631.

February 20, 2023

1961 Rolex Oyster 6426 violet dial with expansion bracelet $8,000.00 CAD. 505-00351

The essence of simple and reliable timekeeping can be found in this vintage Rolex precision dating from late 1961. The shock-protected 17-jewel Rolex calibre 1210 is running to a slow beat rhythm of 18,000 cycles per hour. The soothing tic tic tic tic tic can easily be heard through the domed plastic crystal. This basic manual winding movement has a very useful power reserve of well over 2 days allowing the user the need to wind it up only every other day. Long before there were self-winding and electronic watches, wind-up technology was the only type available. It’s running great and keeping very good time. Thin tapered 18-karat white gold hands with basic white gold faceted hour markers provide excellent legibility. The thin profile of this Rolex also reveals the true age to any vintage Rolex aficionado. Modern automatic Rolex watches are much more thick and bulky. The 34mm case (34.8mm by actual measurement) is perfect for the gentleman who doesn’t want to be continuously reminded that he’s wearing a giant oversized timepiece. Many women are wearing this size too for a fun and supremely functional alternative to something more dainty. At over 60 years of age, this watch is in amazing condition. We feel the watch was serviced around 10 years ago but hasn’t been worn since, as it still sports a slightly yellowed case back service sticker.  It comes with a service box of roughly that age but no supporting documents. The watch likely received a light refinishing and professional polishing at the hands of Rolex’s master technicians when it was last serviced. The rare 12-link, 19mm, Oyster expansion bracelet is in remarkable condition considering the 1960s date code 4 63. When we occasionally encounter these bracelets they almost always have missing links or broken internal springs. This example is in almost brand-new condition. What we most love about this watch is the lovely medium violet/blue dial. Try as we may we just can’t capture the subtle hue as it interacts with the sunburst finish Rolex is famous for. We can’t figure this dial out; there is no doubt in our minds that it is an authentic Rolex dial and we assume it is a service replacement. It glows like a modern luminova dial, but still displays indications of luminous tritium application to the dial plots and hands. Whatever the story of this mysterious dial, we have never seen another in person that displays an unusual colour that must be seen in person. The watch is running great and keeping excellent time. Including our complimentary 1-year warranty (prorated 5 years), service box, and travel pouch, this curious vintage Rolex is estate priced at $8,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00351.

February 16, 2023

2021 Rolex 126613LB “Bluesy” $21,500.00 CAD. 505-00159

The much anticipated new Submariners are out. Model 126613LB debuted in 2020. The design takes one step forward and one step back. The slightly larger case size of 41mm versus 40mm isn’t really noticeable. What can be seen is the more balanced ratio between the case, the lugs, and the bracelet. The top-heavy look of the outgoing 116613LB has been addressed with slimmer lugs and the addition of 1mm width to the iconic Oyster bracelet. The new proportions are more in keeping with Submariners of the past, making the previous version perhaps a one-off experiment. Powering the new Sub is the 31 jewel calibre 3235 automatic that offers an increased power reserve of 70 hours and an accuracy expectation of +-2 seconds per day. This latest Submariner is preowned and technically an estate offering, but barely. It was purchased new in late 2021 and responsibly worn for less than a year. There are light scuffs and minor scratches on the case, bracelet, and buckle but nothing worth specific attention. Minor blemishes could easily be removed but we always like to leave collectible watches in their original condition. It comes with its endorsed 2021 warranty card, instructions, hangtags, and complete packaging. It remains in unpolished original condition. The only need for preparation for resale was to wipe a few finger pints off with a soft cloth and a quick ultrasonic cleaning. The factory’s 5-year international warranty will accompany the watch until late 2026. All the regular modern Submariner features are here. The “Glidelock” buckle can after the bracelet length by 18mm in 9 separate increments. This clever buckle ensures a perfect fit no matter what you are doing. Rolex has been promoting the two-tone look for sports models more and more lately. The new Explorer is now available in steel and gold, along with the SeaDweller. The two-tone blue dial Submariner has been a favorite among Rolex fans for many decades. The new 41mm “Bluesy” is sure to continue the tradition for many years to come. This watch is priced at $21,500.00 CAD. Stock #505-00159.

February 15, 2023

1965 Rolex 5513 with rare 7206 80 rivet bracelet $17,000.00 CAD. 505-00350

While we love modern watches in both electronic and mechanical formats, it’s the vintage timepieces that we really nerd out over. When it comes to coveted, yet obtainable watches, the Rolex Submariner has always been a top choice among collectors and aficionados. Our latest estate Submariner is this glorious one-owner 5513 that dates from 1965. The truly obsessed will have already noticed the dial isn’t original for a Sub from the 60s. It was replaced in a 2004 service when Rolex was performing a routine overhaul. Judging by the overall excellent condition of the watch, we imagine the previous owner was rather fussy when it came to the appearance of his Submariner.  The original dial, hour markers, hands, and bezel insert likely acquired some patina over the prior 4 decades and no longer glowed in the dark. Rolex likely suggested updating the watch with a set of new hands, a bezel insert, and a modern dial featuring luminous hour markers in applied 18 karat white gold frames; compared to simple printed plots of the original dial this update made great sense. According to the Feb. 2004 Rolex invoice, the new parts only added $362.00 to the servicing cost. The prior owner couldn’t have imagined replacing the dial with a genuine, albeit not original dial affected the value by many thousands of dollars today. A new crown, waterproof tube, and crystal are considered wear-and-tear items, that should occasionally be replaced and have a much less significant effect on value.Okay, so the dial,  hands, and bezel insert are not original, but consider the entire package. It’s a beautiful example of a vintage 5513 Submariner that is pushing 60 years of age. What I love most about this watch is the uncommon 7206 80 riveted bracelet with a standard buckle. There is no diver’s extension or fliplock on this buckle. These wonderful bracelets are super lightweight and have a super low profile of less than 2.5mm. We a very confident this bracelet is original to the watch as it bears the manufactures date stamp 3 65 which perfectly matches the date stamp inside the case back showing the third quarter of 65. The wear and rub marks on the back of the lugs perfectly match where the bracelet end pieces rub. Much like forensic ballistics can tell which gun fired the bullet, wear and tear are telltale indications of originality. We also found several vintage brochures on the internet featuring 5513 Submariners without fliplock buckles. While these bracelets are very comfy, they certainly are much more delicate than the solid link modern replacements you see on most Submariners of this era. We’re also happy to report at 58 years of age the 12-link Oyster bracelet doesn’t show excess sag or stretch. One final comment on this bracelet is there is no evidence of repairs to the links, buckle, or hinge. These buckles used rolled steel hinge joints to secure a simple pin by interference spring tension. Many times the work-hardened rolled ends failed after decades of use. Before modern laser welding machines appeared in the trade 20 years ago, broken buckles were simply replaced as there was no way to repair the light gauge stainless steel. The buckle, hinges, and cover of this rare bracelet are all original and have never been laser welded or replaced. This watch comes with 3 previous Rolex service documents. Peoples Jewellers sent it to Rolex for service in March 1987, Rolex serviced it again in February 2004, and in December 2013, Rolex authorized agents Knar Jewellery submitted the watch for a routine movement cleaning. While in for service the watch received a light case refinishing. The finish and fine details on the watch remain impeccable. Sharp beveled edges on all 4 lugs are clearly evident. They remain thick and free from any serious impact marks. The watch is running flawlessly and looking even better. This watch is far lighter and more comfortable to wear than anything modern, it weighs just over 92 grams yet can still fit a wrist size of up to 8 inches. Included with the watch are the original service documents, service box, and polishing cloth along with our complimentary 1-year warranty (prorated for 5 years). This collectible Rolex Submariner is estate priced at $17,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00350.

January 22, 2023

1978 Rolex GMT-Master 1675 “Pepsi” Jubilee bracelet $28,000.00 CAD. 505-00034

It’s been 67 years since Rolex introduced one of the most popular and distinctive sports models of all time, the GMT-Master. In the 1940s and ’50s international travel was catching on and pilots required a quick easy way to keep track of local time and Greenwich meantime. GMT is a constant time that does not change with the seasons or location, it is the international reference point to which local all local time zones are calculated. The simple rotating bezel can be rotated to show GMT using the second long red hour hand in a 24-hour format. The daylight hours are displayed in the red zone and dark nighttime hours are shown in blue. This model dates from 1978 and is in remarkable condition for its age. The dial shows absolutely no patina on the tritium hands or hour markers. The flat black, matt finish dial is perfect. We felt a watch of this quality and condition deserved a fresh factory service. In November 2020 we sent it to the Rolex Canada facility in Toronto for an estimate to service the watch and to address any other issues it may have. To our relief Rolex only suggested overhauling the 26 jewel, calibre 1570 automatic mechanism, and replacing the plastic crystal. The rest of the watch was left alone. We specifically requested that Rolex DO NOT polish or refinish the case or bracelet in any way. It has only been worn a handful of times since the factory service was completed at the end of January 2021. The previous owner removed the protective factory service stickers since these pictures were taken but the watch finish remains in excellent condition.   The Jubilee bracelet is a service replacement from 1997. Jubilee bracelets made their first appearance on a sports Rolex with the GMT. All the other sports models came only with the Oyster style making the GMT a little different. After close to a 30-year absence Rolex is once again offering a GMT-Master with a red/blue bezel on a Jubilee bracelet, the new GMT is still the only sporty Rolex to be offered with a Jubilee bracelet. The GMT-Master was retired in the late 1990s and replaced with the GMT-Master II still in production today. The newest “Pepsi” red/blue model 126710BLRO retails for $12,650.00 CAD but apparently, the waiting list to buy one is a mile long, and used versions of the newest model have asking prices of over $25,000.00.Of course, you can always get the entirely 18 karat white gold version for $46,550.00 CAD, but there are long waiting lists for that one too. Vintage GMT Masters have seen considerable appreciation in value over the past few years. If you’ve been chasing them for a while maybe it’s time to bite the bullet with this fantastic example. All four digit model number, plastic crystal professional Rolex watches are turning up less and less often. Collectors are buying everything that comes on the market and tucking them away. In the 1964 James Bond movie Goldfinger, the character Pussy Galore wore an early example of a Rolex GMT Master. A 40mm watch in the ’60s was very unusual for a woman, but looking at it today I think they look fantastic on a feminine wrist, especially with a Jubilee bracelet like this one. This watch comes with the 2-year international Rolex service warranty, green faux suede service pouch, copy of service invoice for $1,412.50, service warranty card, booklet, and a Rolex polishing cloth. This beautiful example of a vintage GMT-Master is estate priced at $28,000.00 CAD. Stock number 505-00034.

January 20, 2023

2016 Tudor Black Bay Bronze 79250BM 43mm $4,000.00 CAD. 505-00344

Whenever we purchase previously owned watches or jewellery we go over all the details with a great degree of scrutiny; our reputation depends on it. The quality of counterfeit fakes out there has become very sophisticated, down to the point that parts (internal and external) have become interchangeable. This watch came in from a long time Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers customer. We gave it our regular once over and realized there wasn’t a visible serial number or model number in the usual position under the 11:00 and 1:00 o’clock lugs. We normally don’t pay a lot of attention to a serial number because honestly, a serial number is about the easiest thing to duplicate on a fake. The presence of a serial number is possibly the least reliable way to authenticate a watch, while the absence of any serial number or model number on a genuine product is very curious indeed. Is it possible Rolex/Tudor somehow missed this one? Could it have been removed? Is the fact that bronze oxidizes in unique and unusual ways, perhaps obscuring or “healing” the factory’s numbers? The truth is we just don’t know. We’ve spent hours looking at this watch over the last 6 months and can’t find any evidence of severe oxidation, tampering, or engraving removal. We contacted Tudor with the numbers from the paperwork and sent many high resolution pictures. Their response was appropriate and expected; “Kindly we ask if the watch could be sent to us for further review, we will be able to advise better once the Technicians can review the watch.” Everything about this watch is as it should be, right down to the 25-jewel MT5601 Tudor automatic movement. After much deliberation, we’ve decided not to send it to Tudor. If this is a factory omission, we’re sure they would insist on engraving the appropriate model/serial numbers to the underside of the lugs. Rolex keeps meticulous records, they know exactly where their watches are delivered and what authorized agent sold them. The number engraved on the movement alone could likely connect this watch to the serial number found on the endorsed October 2016 paperwork and paper product tags included with the watch, but Rolex isn’t talking, and I don’t really blame them. They are not exactly the most transparent company when it comes to internal policy. We are 100% confident this watch is genuine and authentic, right down to the white cardboard sleeve that accompanies this watch. It also comes with an OEM golden brown nylon NATO strap, inner/outer boxes, instructions, booklet, warranty card, foam box liner, and even a pair of large size Tudor black handling gloves. The watch is in very good condition, showing signs of typical use for being 6 years old. The automatic movement is keeping excellent time with an autonomy of over 70 hours, yes we checked that too. It actually ran 72 hours before stopping. The factory warranty has expired, but we are happy to provide the next owner with a complimentary 1-year guarantee, under the same terms as Tudor. The question remains, how/why this watch is lacking its serial and model number? If the next owner wishes, we will assume all costs that Tudor charge (if any) to provide authentication. This curious Tudor is estate priced at $4,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00344.

2015 Tudor Black Bay 79220N with box & papers $5,850.00 CAD. e14632 505-00192

When the Tudor Black Bay series was released in 2012 it was obviously heavily inspired by the ever-popular Tudor Submariners of the 1950s. Featuring a gold connected minute track, cool snowflake hour hand on a flat black dial, the watch has an undeniably vintage look. Initially only available with a burgundy bezel, a year or two later a blue bezel option appeared. Its design and look were so classic, so perfectly executed that it was honored by the jury of the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie in Geneva in 2013. The highly anticipated Black Bay Black was released in the fall of 2015 and was available on either leather strap or metal bracelet. A few months after the release of the Black Bay Black there was an announcement in Baselworld 2016 that all Tudor Black Bay models would soon feature an in-house movement. What’s interesting and noteworthy, is that would make the Black Bay Black with Tudor 2824 caliber available for sale for less than a year. The Tudor 2824 caliber movement is based on the ETA 2824 movement used by many high-end Swiss watch manufacturers. It’s a time-tested (pun intended), trusted movement known for its precision and reliability. However, Tudor’s watchmaking expertise improved upon the ETA incabloc shock protection and regulation system making the movement more specific and more accurate. The easiest way to tell the difference between the two is; the original Tudor Black Bay Black had the iconic Tudor Rose emblem on the dial above the name Tudor, whereas the new generation Black Bays with the in-house calibre feature the Tudor Shield. All Black Bay models ETA movement editions come with a nylon NATO-style accessory strap. They say hindsight is 20/20 and I have to agree. Many of the rare or unusual Rolex and Tudor watches we’ve sold over the last few years have seen substantial price increases. The Black Bay Black has seen similar price appreciation over the last few years. If you’re going to collect one, get the best and most complete example you can. This example has been responsibly worn by a watch enthusiast client of Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers for several years. It maintains its original finish and has never been polished, only ultrasonically cleaned. The bracelet and case show some scuffs and scratches but nothing excessive. A sharp-eyed client examining the watch spotted a small discolouration in the centre of the 4:00 o’clock luminous plot. This anomaly came as a surprise to us and we can not explain how it got there. Here is a close-up image of the minor blemish. The watch comes with a complimentary one-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty, original inner/outer boxes, instructions, an endorsed Canadian warranty card, and a black nylon strap (never installed). Estate priced at $5,850.00 CAD. Stock #e14632 505-00192.

January 17, 2023

1996 Rolex Submariner 16610 40mm with Everest strap $13,770.00 CAD. 505-00228 e13090

We’ve all had those woulda coulda shoulda moments that we didn’t capitalize on. Opportunities that didn’t necessarily look like opportunities until years later. There are few consumer products that have appreciated in value better than a Rolex sports watch. Not many discretionary purchases have any value left in them after a few years, let alone a few decades. I remember not much more than a decade ago, Submariners like this were trading hands for around $5,000.00. Today I think this watch is still a good opportunity priced at $13,770.00 CAD. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers sold this exact watch to its previous owner in 2019. He sold it back to us recently for more than he initially paid for it in 2019. It’s not difficult to make a compelling case that Rolex is an actual asset class all on its own. Very few Rolex watches are worth less today than when they were new. All have seen appreciation, but the sports models have seen the most. Our latest estate Rolex was the most popular Submariner ever produced. The 16610 remained in production for close to 25 years. It is what most people identify as what a Submariner should look like. It offers the classic symmetry of a 40mm case with a 20mm Oyster bracelet. It is the last model with an aluminum bezel insert. Some expert collectors believe the 16610 is one of the more investible and accessible Rolex watches on the vintage market today, and this one is pretty nice. We’ve sold 100s of this model over the years. If we knew what they’d be worth today we would have never sold them, we would have squirreled them away and been much better off. This is but one of our woulda coulda shoulda Rolex moments, of which there are many. I wonder where the Rolex market going to be in the next ten years. It appears Rolex and real estate are only inexpensive in hindsight. This 1996 example comes with an accessory Everest rubber strap. These high-quality straps are made in Switzerland, specifically made for Rolex. The soft rubber strap fits perfectly without gaps and comes with a strong stainless steel buckle. The watch also comes with a Rolex inner/outer box, some documents, chronometer hag-tag, calendar, wallet, and our complimentary 1-year warranty. It is estate priced at $13,770.00 CAD. Stock #505-00228 e13090.

1969 Rolex Air-King Date 5701 34mm $5,190.00 CAD. 505-00255

If your significant other is giving you a hard time about your watch collection, let them know there are worse ways to spend your disposable income. Here is more evidence supporting my argument. Our latest estate watch was purchased from us in late 2001 for just $2,250.00, and at $5,190.00 today I think it’s still good value for an entry-level collector Rolex. This watch is a little unusual because it is an Air-King but it also has a calendar feature. This combination was only available in commonwealth countries like Canada, Australia, etc. All other countries got the Air-King without the date feature. I believe this is the only automatic watch that Rolex made during this era that had a calendar feature but wasn’t chronometer rated. These 34mm Air-Kings can be worn by men or women on the original stainless steel Oyster bracelet or a leather strap of your colour choice that gives the watch a completely different character. The Air-King Date features an extremely sturdy and reliable calibre 1520. This 26 jewel automatic winding mechanism was initially developed in 1957 and stayed in service in watches like the no date Submariner until the late 1980s. A more than 30-year run speaks volumes for reliability. This Air-King has been worn off and on by various owners for over 50 years. The full length 13 folded link Oyster bracelet should fit almost anyone and is in decent condition. It is showing some dents and dings with some sage but has many decades of useful service life left. The logo on the buckle is very well worn but still displays some relief. We are happy to supply the next owner of this vintage (and somewhat rare Rolex) with a complimentary 1-year warranty. The watch is estate priced at $5,190.00 CAD. Stock #505-00255.

January 15, 2023

1940s Rolex Viceroy 3116 17 jewel 29mm on expansion Oyster bracelet $5,000.00 CAD. 505-00184

Rolex and its patented Oyster case were gaining a reputation for durability and water resistance in the 1940s. As styles changed and wristwatches gained popularity after the second world war Rolex modified their designs while sticking with their patented Oyster case. As new models came out the Oysters always featured a screw on case back, a screw down crown, and a round crystal that was secured with an interference fit bezel to keep the elements at bay. This curiously shaped watch has a flat tonneau shape with extended lugs giving it a rectangular length to width ratio of 1.34:1 based on its 29mm width. While slightly small by today’s standards, this was an average sized gentleman’s watch for the 1940s. These Viceroy Rolex watches are very rare today and seldom seen. This one came to us requiring a full service, mainspring, crown, case tube, and case back gasket. Original parts for these watches haven’t been available from Rolex for close to half a century. While no longer completely original, we were able to source a case tube and crown that enable this 75 year old Rolex to be functional and reliable for years to come. The fact that is no longer watertight shouldn’t be an issue for most. We have no concerns about supplying the next owner with a 1-year warranty (prorated 5 years). When the original threaded tube and crown failed, the watch was likely stored away for decades before it came to us. We were pleasantly surprised when we looked inside the case and saw two previously etched service records inside. The 17 jewel hand wind mechanism hasn’t been overly serviced and remains complete and original, right down to the plates showing their original bright surfaces, which look practically new. After the 2021 service, the watch is running like new (perhaps better). An included electronic Vibrograph report shows a rate of only 2 seconds fast per day. The balance wheel amplitude of 300 degrees is as good as a modern chronometer. The beat error (difference between the clockwise swing and the counterclockwise swing of the balance wheel) of 1.1 milliseconds is reasonable for a watch of this age. You’ll be surprised just how accurate this little Rolex will be. The parchment dial is in remarkable condition showing only minor and even tan patina. The 3 hands appear original although the luminous material has completely fallen out of the minute hand and mostly out of the hour hand. One of the nicest things about this watch is the unique wave pattern that has been precisely stamped on the bezel. We’ve never seen this sort of decoration on a Rolex bezel before and is a testament the case has never been polished. Attached to the case is a rare 16mm Oyster expansion bracelet containing 12 spring loaded riveted links with a fold over signed buckle. This rare Watch Accessories Birmingham (WAB) Oyster bracelet is a first for us as we’ve never had one before. We’re happy to report all 14 links have functional and stiff internal springs and the bracelet shows virtually no sag. Including our complimentary warranty, this rare Oyster Rolex with Oyster bracelet is estate priced at $5,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00184.

January 14, 2023

1980 Rolex Submariner 16808 with box & service papers. $30,000.00 CAD

We’ve sold 100s of stainless steel and two-tone Rolex Submariners over the past 65 years but this one is only a small handful of all gold Submariners we have had the pleasure of showcasing. This is no jewellery box queen, it was used as an everyday watch most of its entire life since purchased brand new in 1980. The first owner wore it for close to 40 years until he decided it was time for a change. We sold it a little over 3 years ago to the second owner who only used it occasionally until he brought it back to us. A number of years ago the original bracelet was completely rebuilt. The solid gold screws and rivets holding everything together were replaced by Humbertown Jewellers according to the original owner. The removable screws have been substituted by soldered in place 18 karat gold wire. After a recent polishing, the bracelet still shows obvious signs of wear and tear. There is not too much sag or stretch but one of the tapered links has been removed and two links are showing small dents. The rebuilt bracelet can be safely worn for decades to come but it will never be new or perfect. The fliplock clasp with diver’s extension is working beautifully but the embossed Rolex logo has almost disappeared from wear and polishing over the past 43 years. In the fall of 2011, Rolex Canada performed a full service and overhaul of the automatic winding movement. While being serviced the watch was treated to a new dial, a set of hands, and a new bezel insert. The royal blue dial is perfect, showing a beautiful radial sunburst pattern that colour shifts as the watch is moved. The new dial and hands provide far better low/no light visibility as the fresh luminous pigment glows far brighter than the original tritium material. Rolex service warranty card and service report are included along with the dealer invoice of $1,311.93 for the servicing and parts. The head of the watch is in really nice condition. It has been professionally refinished by Rolex while in for service and still displays the proper textures on all surfaces. The lugs are still plenty thick and retain a nice beveled edge. The original leather covered wooden box is missing its liner but is in otherwise good condition. A rare accessory brown leather wallet is in perfect condition as it remained unused by the previous owners since 1980. If you prefer to purchase the watch without the 65.3 gram original bracelet we will supply any 20mm leather Hirsch strap that is available for no charge. These gold Submariners look right at home with a high quality leather or rubber strap. Without the original rebuilt bracelet the watch is priced at $26,000.00 CAD. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers is pleased to provide the new owner with a complimentary 1-year warranty. The watch comes with all the pictured documents, box, and accessories. This classic Rolex Submariner on Oyster bracelet is estate priced at $30,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00349.

January 13, 2023

0.80ct. I1-GH gents Rolex President style diamond ring 9.8gr. 10kt. sz. 10. $3,063.00 CAD.116-00061

According to Forbes.com, the 2020 value of the Rolex brand is 9.5 billion, with estimated sales of $5.2 billion. Volkswagen by comparison had a brand value of 7.9 billion with estimated sales 20 times more than Rolex in the same year. This is an astounding statistic. How can a luxury item with just one factory in Switzerland (soon to be two) command a significantly higher brand value than a major automotive company with over 100 production plants in dozens of countries that employ well over half a million people worldwide? Rolex is much more than a decent watch, they’re a luxury product in the truest sense, they are an aspirational goal, a lifestyle, and a status symbol. You may never own a brand new Bentley automobile (parent company Volkswagon), but with some hard work and saving, owning a Rolex can be had for well under $10,000.00. The operating costs of the average Rolex are only around $100.00 per year, and there is little need to worry about depreciation. This estate diamond ring is a homage to one of Rolex’s most famous designs. The President bracelet of the Rolex Day-Date model is instantly recognizable down the shoulders of this 10 karat yellow and white gold ring. The iconic fluted bezel from the Rolex is a very obvious inspiration as it forms the outer bezel securing the natural round brilliant cut diamond. We’ve seen this style of ring before, they have proven appealing to both watch aficionados and someone just looking for an attractive ring. Bezel set in the centre of this ring is a good sized natural diamond weighing an estimated 0.80 carats. It is a pleasant I1 clarity with small scattered inclusions and a very nice GH colour and a good cut. The sturdy construction 10 karat two-tone ring weighs in at close to 10 grams and measures an average gent’s finger size 10. This ring can be adjusted up or down 2 full sizes. While not manufactured as precisely as its inspiration, this unauthorized miniature does a good job of capturing the look. I wonder if Rolex gives any thought to products such as this that are made in the likeness of their designs. I secretly think they really don’t mind a little extra promotion and value added to the brand with the crown logo. The 18 karat Day-Date II 218239 used in these images has been spoken for, but the ring is available for the estate price of $3,063.00 CAD. Stock #116-00061.

January 12, 2023

1971 Rolex GMT Master 1675, 1 owner with box & papers. $22,440.00 CAD. 505-00343

Relative to its original purchase price of just $190.00 CAD in 1971, this Rolex had a costly service of $45.00 just 3 years later. The repair/service cost almost 25% of what the entire watch sold for a few years before. The repair was likely required due to a severe shock or drop of some sort as it needed a new balance staff (common repair) and a general cleaning while it was disassembled. A similar service to a contemporary Rolex would likely cost somewhere in the $1,200.00 to $1,500.00 today. While that sounds like a lot of money, it only represents about 10% of the value of the new Rolex GMT Master II. This tells quite a bit about the cost of Rolex watches and the servicing fees. Highly skilled watchmakers and technicians were plentiful in the 60s and 70s, every small town had at least a few of them. The occupation wasn’t very lucrative as plenty of competition kept the servicing costs extremely low. My father was an experienced watchmaker in the 1950s; there was plenty of work to be had, but not much compensation relative to the skill and time required to maintain such fine instruments. Today qualified watchmakers are far more appreciated and compensated accordingly. The cost of a new Rolex watch has seen exponential price appreciation in the last 50 years. The median income in the year (1971) our latest estate watch was made was around $10,000.00; the cost of the watch represented around 2% of a year’s wages. With a median Canadian income of around $59,000.00 in 2022, a modern Rolex GMT-Master II costs over 20% of a year’s wages. Rolex has become far more than just a high quality watch manufacturer, they have transformed their business into one of luxury and lifestyle. This one owner 1971 Rolex GMT Master is a testament to the quality of Rolex watches. How many consumer products can literally be used 24/7 for one’s entire adult life and then left for the next generation to use? You’ll always pay up for a good Rolex but there are far worse things you can do with some extra income. This unlikely investment was quite a surprise to the original owner when he finally decided it was time for a new home after over 50 years of ownership. This local watch comes with its original invoice from the summer of 1971. It also comes with the mentioned 1974 service receipt from Rolex Canada. It was serviced again at Rolex Canada in late 2002. That major service included an overhaul to the self winding mechanism plus replacement of the dial, hands, bezel insert, crown, case tube, repair bracelet (new buckle perhaps), and a few miscellaneous movement parts to the tune of $994.00 (over 5 times the original purchase price) plus sales tax. Incidentally, sales tax in Ontario increased 260% from 1971 to 2002, it seems Rolex isn’t the only one who knows how to make money. In a perfect world, we’d prefer to have all the original 1971 parts still on the watch, but we’re thrilled just the same to have a Rolex this complete with a known history. The replacement parts are genuine Rolex, just not original to the watch. Also included is the rare GMT brochure, fully endorsed punched paper warranty booklet, original chronometer hang tag, green plastic product tag with matching serial number, 2002 service papers with carbon copy, service/travel pouch, and various other payment receipts. Notice that the penmanship is the same on the original sales invoice and warranty paper. The original inner/outed box is complete but the spring loaded hinge is broken. Despite being over 50 years old, we have no concerns about offering a complimentary 1-year warranty (prorated for 5 years) on this classic dual-time Rolex GMT Master 1675. Our estate price is $22,440.00 CAD. Stock #505-00343.

January 10, 2023

1969 Tudor Day+Date 7017/0 with 7836/280 Rolex bracelet $6,800.00 CAD. 505-00339

Although there are only 7 days in a week, sometimes we all need to think for a second about what day it is. Holidays and long weekends can contribute to the occasional confusion.  I’m sure we’ve all been in the position of thinking we’ve lost or picked up a day once in a while. Rolex makes a model with a Day and Date display but it only comes in precious metal and costs a cool $41,400.00 in yellow gold ($44,900.00 in white gold).  Our latest vintage estate watch was made by Rolex subsidiary Tudor. This uncommon model 7017/0 features a Day of the week plus a day of the month displayed in the same manner as its cousin but in stainless steel. These are larger than vintage Rolex Day-Dates and measure a contemporary 37.7mm diameter. We’ve only had a few of these over the years and they always make an interesting addition to our ever changing collection. This one features the seldom encountered blue dial. The case of vintage Tudor Oysters, bracelets, and crowns are all made by Rolex and are occasionally completely interchangeable with similar era Rolex models. The hard to find Rolex bracelet 7836 (380 end links) that comes on this watch accounts for close to half of the entire value of the complete watch. You may have the same bracelet on your classic Rolex first generation Explorer II 1655, GMT Master 1675, Milgauss 1019, Thunderbird 1625, Explorer 1016, Datejust 1603, 1601, 1600, and perhaps a few other models. If you need an extra bracelet link for yours be prepared to pay around $300.00 for a used one because Rolex no longer sells them. The bracelet on our Day+Date is in very good condition showing only a little bit of sag and an excellent example of the embossed logo seen on the back of the buckle. It contains 14 links and will accommodate a wrist size of up to 8 1/2 inches. We feel the watch has not been polished or refinished; it still shows the factory applied beveled edges on the lugs with good detail. The screw on case back has been lightly engraved with a personalized message to the previous owner (concealed in this image). The machine engraving was lightly applied and can easily be removed for the next owner if they wish. The luminous pigment on the hands has a greener hue than we’d expect for a watch of this age and it doesn’t match the tan patina of the plots at the ends of the hour markers. We believe the hands were touched up with a different glowing material at some point when the watch was serviced. The watch is running well and keeping good time. All functions are operating as designed. The screw down crown turns more than one full rotation before popping into the winding position. Including our 1-year warranty (prorated for 5 years) this uncommon Tudor Day+Date is estate priced at $6,800.00 CAD. Stock #505-00339.

January 9, 2023

1956 Rolex Oyster 36mm 6298 $7,500.00 CAD. e11990

4 digit model number Rolex watches from the 1950s do not show up very often, in fact, they almost never show up. The 1950s were a time when Rolex really began to establish itself as a high-quality do it all watch manufacturer that could stand up to the demands of the modern 20th century. The demographics of the 1950s presented Rolex with the perfect opportunity to take advantage of middle-class disposable income. Jobs and money were plentiful; this watch likely cost less than 2 weeks of wages at the time. Rolex was establishing a vast dealer network across North America looking to grab a piece of the action. This Rolex Oyster looks much more modern than the mid-50s thanks to its more modern service dial and hour/minute hands. The nifty blued steel seconds hand offers a clue to its true age.  This watch likely originally was delivered with an Explorer type dial. The original dial was likely exchanged for this more modern silver with a radial finish and classic 18 karat white gold stick hour markers. The watch is powered by what appears to be the original calibre A296-775 Rolex automatic winding mechanism that is running strong and keeping good time. Semi bubble back case Rolex watches in 36mm sizes are much harder to come across than the common 34mm size. The original Oyster case is in excellent condition showing very little pitting as is common on early steel Rolex watches. The original engraved serial/style numbers are clearly visible after the American made Jubilee bracelet is removed. Instead of reading REGISTERED DESIGN, this case says BREVET, derived from the french word for patent. It’s remarkable to us that a 66-year-old watch can look so contemporary, but such is the Rolex style. 6 months, 6 years, or 66 years old, a Rolex Oyster is always in style. The loose link Jubilee bracelet allows a super comfortable fit for a wrist size of up to 7 3/4 inches. The famous Rolex coronet buckle still displays good relief. Looking at current Rolex watches, a similar 36mm model is still available although only with the more sporty Oyster style bracelet. The current version of this watch can be seen on the Rolex website for $7,200.00 CAD. Including a complimentary 1-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty the watch is estate priced at $7,500.00 CAD. Stock #e11990.

Rare 1950s Tudor cocktail watch with diamonds 14kt. white gold. $1,090.00 CAD. 505-00263

Current jewellery styles are thin, light, and delicate when it comes to engagement rings, necklaces and bracelets. Vintage watches like this have always been around, but maybe we are beginning to see the watch come back as more than simply a time-keeping device or status symbol. Watches can be beautiful jewellery items too, with designs that look like they could be used on a ring or pendant. This vintage Tudor is a lovely jewellery item as well as a high quality mechanical watch. The petite case measures just 14mm in diameter yet contains a highly evolved calibre 342 21 jewel hand wind mechanism with shock protection, that is pretty to look at and surprisingly accurate for such a tiny movement. This rare Tudor has been crafted from 14 karat white gold in the Rolex factory with an original Rolex crown and signed case back. There is very little information around about Tudor cocktail watches like this. In sleuthing around the internet we couldn’t find a single example of a Tudor like this. I imagine in the 1950s or 60s you could have purchased a stainless steel or gold plated Rolex for less than this watch cost at the time. I’m sure this was a cherished possession for someone for many years. It appears to be in original condition aside from perhaps a different strap, but I’m sure it came with one very close to this style when new. It is hard to determine with 100% accuracy whether or not the silver tone dial has been refinished. The case doesn’t look to have ever been polished as the florentine finished lugs still show excellent detail. The six small round brilliant cut diamonds add the necessary bling every cocktail watch show display. They are of very nice VS-HI quality and weigh a combined 0.12 carats. The case back has only a couple of service etchings leading us to believe the watch was used more for special occasions rather than every day. Included with purchase are a one-year warranty and complimentary first service, whenever that may be. This unusual estate Tudor cocktail watch is estate priced at $1,090.00 CAD. Stock #505-00263.

January 5, 2023

1972 Rolex Datejust 1603 Sigma dial $5,990.00 CAD. e11279 505-00236

The tone on tone look is about being understated. Simple silver dial with stick hour markers are basic in design but effective in practice and make a confident statement. At 45 years old this classic Datejust 1603 is looking great. The previous owner submitted the watch to Rolex Canada in January 2016 for an authenticity report that is included. Rolex determined the case, bracelet, and movement are all authentic. Our close inspection revealed the 18-karat white gold hands and the date ring are likely newer service replacements. Many times on watches this old the dial can show moisture damage, stains, or scratches. We are happy to report the silver “sigma” tritium dial is completely original. A sigma dial refers to the tiny circular marks that appear beside the SWISS or SWISS MADE on watch dials made in the 1970s. The little marks are actually the lowercase Greek letter sigma. This logo was selected by some Swiss manufacturers to indicate that the dial markers/hands were actually made from gold not simply electroplated over base metals. The sigma logo was partially introduced to help demonstrate the value of traditional high-end Swiss mechanical watches compared to new much less expensive quartz technology beginning to cut into Swiss watch sales. A watch with a sigma dial was something that set itself apart from the crowd. With rising gold prices in the 70s, this was something people could identify with. The upper case Ts on our example is there to signify the luminous circular plots on the dial are made of tritium. Tritium hasn’t been used on Rolex dials for around 20 years or so; these dials too are becoming scarce over time. To anyone outside the vintage watch collecting world, these tiny dial details seem irrelevant but to serious collectors, they can impact values by many thousands of dollars in some cases. The rest of the watch is pretty classic Rolex stuff. 36mm oyster case, original U.S.A made jubilee bracelet date coded 12-1970, steel bezel, plastic crystal, chronometer rated automatic calibre 1570 movement. The watch is running great keeping excellent time with all functions operating as designed. Excellent overall condition especially considering this watch was made 51 years ago. Including a one-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty, the watch is estate priced at $5,990.00 CAD. Stock #505-00236.

January 3, 2023

2022 Rolex Datejust 36 126281RBR factory diamond bezel & pearl dial $29,890.00 CAD. 505-00251

In the world of luxury Swiss watches, the Rolex Datejust is as ubiquitous as you can get. That being said, there is an almost infinite number of dials, bezels, bracelets, case sizes, and metal combinations that allow for a unique personality while still maintaining that classic Datejust look. The Datejust has been in continuous production since 1945. In the world of consumer product design, there are few styles that have endured as well as the Datejust. Our latest estate Datejust is definitely one of the more unique combinations to grace our showcase. The gold and stainless-steel two-tone look is a popular choice, offering versatility that steel can’t. Rolex’s rose gold offers a beautiful hue unique to the brand; at first glance, it doesn’t look much different from its yellow gold. Developed in 2005 and christened “Everose”, this alloy holds several patents protecting its exclusive use by Rolex. Traditional rose and pink gold alloys contain some copper giving them that blushed look. Long-term exposure to solutions containing chlorine or prolonged use in environments like salt water can cause the copper in traditional rose/pink gold alloys to chemically react and lose luster. Rolex adds a little platinum to their rose gold protecting against the effects of harsh chemicals. Rolex is the only watch manufacturer with its own foundries; they produce exclusive gold alloys for its sole use. Rolex metallurgists are free to develop specific formulas for use in only Rolex products. There is more than just some exotic platinum used in the manufacturing of Everose 18 karat gold, but Rolex isn’t talking or giving away any trade secrets. The beautiful mother of pearl dial blends especially well with rose gold, and the subtle rainbow of pastel colours that roll across the dial as the watch is moved. Adding some extra luxury are 10 exceptional quality single-cut diamond hour markers and 52 brilliant cut diamonds in the bezel. Each diamond is expertly set in a frame of 18 karat rose gold. This watch has only been worn a couple of times, it remains in perfect condition without a scratch or blemish of any kind. The easy to wear 36mm case and Jubilee bracelet are suitable for the average sized gentleman or lady who prefers a little bit larger watch. The mechanical locking buckle features Rolex’s “EasyLink” extension. This clever mechanism allows a small amount of extra length to be deployed from under the buckle when a little more room is needed. The watch was purchased from an authorized agent and benefits from the 5-year international warranty, covering the next owner until the midwinter of 2027. It comes complete with perfect condition inner/outer boxes, endorsed warranty card, hang tags, and operating instructions. This distinctive Datejust 36 is estate priced at $29,890.00 CAD. Stock #505-00251

2017 Tudor Heritage Black Bay with rose logo 79220B $4,200.00 CAD. 505-00077

Another uncommon Tudor Black Bay. This one was only produced for a couple of years before it was prematurely retired with the arrival of the in-house movement series of Black Bays. The early versions and arguably the most collectible are easily distinguished by their vintage Tudor Rose log on the dial and crown. This Black Bay 79220B comes with its original documents and a box supplied by the factory. Everything is in excellent condition; inner box, instructions, warranty card endorsed by a Canadian authorized agent (December 2016), and the plastic hang tag. The Black Bay Heritage was one of Tudor’s most successful product launches. Tudor parent company Rolex absolutely dominates in the premium segment but Tag Heuer, Omega, Breitling, and many other companies compete very successfully in the $2,000.00 – $7,000.00 price range. Rolex has been missing out at this price point for a long time. Over the past number of years, Tudor has been busy re-establishing itself with the introduction of successful designs from past decades. The Heritage Black Bay has been one of the most popular. The vintage look was inspired by the Tudor Submariner from the 1950s. A flat black dial, connected minute track, and the “snowflake” hour hand are familiar details to those who remember the original Tudor watches from the 1950s and 60s. This is a serious watch with sporting features like synthetic sapphire crystal, threaded crown/case back, luminous hands/markers, ratcheting one-way timer bezel, locking buckle, and watertight to 200 meters. The automatic Swiss-made movement within the oyster style 41mm diameter case is keeping excellent time. An August 2019 timing report shows the watch is running 3 seconds fast per day (well under the minimum requirements for chronometer certification). Take advantage of our weak Canadian dollar while you can because sooner or later Rolex will be increasing prices again across the entire model range. As the new products get more expensive the previously enjoyed examples appreciate too. In countries with a stronger currency, this now discontinued watch was much more expensive than domestically. Before this model was retired, the MSRP in the U.S. was $3,425.00 (approximately $4,550.00 CAD) and in Europe, it carried a price of 3,210.00 Euro (approximately $4,700.00 CAD). Another thing to consider; when importing a Swiss-made watch to Canada a 5% duty is applied plus provincial and federal sales tax calculated on top of that. Including a complimentary Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers one-year warranty this collectible retired Tudor is estate priced at $4,200.00 CAD. Stock #505-00077.

December 19, 2022

Rolex Daytona 116515LN 18kt. rose gold 116515LN $41,000.00 CAD. 505-00288

If you’ve purchased a sporty Rolex sometime over the last half-century or so congratulations; you have great taste and you’ve also made a great investment. Rolex watches, specifically, professional models have seen explosive appreciation over the years. Even if only a few years old, sports models trade hands on the secondary market for well over their original retail price.  Explorers, Submariners, and GMT-Masters, have all done well, but there is one model that has eclipsed all others, the Daytona. There is something about these watches that convey the concept of exclusivity, exoticness, and desirability like no other. Since developing their proprietary chronograph mechanism over 20 years ago, Rolex has continued the unofficial policy of limiting the production of the Daytona to waaaaay under worldwide demand. The desire is so great for an entry-level stainless steel Daytona, contemporary models have asking prices at least double the original retail price, even more, if it has a white dial. Rolex it seems, has turned into a legitimate albeit unlikely asset class all on its own. The power of the Rolex brand is unparalleled by any other product that comes to mind. Our latest estate Daytona is this pre-owned example that has hardly been worn. It is practically perfect, exhibiting just tiny scratches here and there. The light silver dial with rose circular frames around the registers is classic and subtle. Light coloured dials offer superior legibility, especially for interpreting the chronograph registers, and make the watch appear a little larger than it’s 40mm case size suggests. The hands and hour markers are treated with a luminous material Rolex calls Chromalight. When the lights go out the treated areas glow for up to 8 hours. Daytona dials have recently been upgraded and are now more attractive than ever. The chronograph hour/minute registers along with the constant seconds register are now defined with updated rings. The circular frames are engraved with microscopic concentric grooves that disperse reflected light in a subtle rolling optical display as the watch is moved. The effect must be seen in person to truly be appreciated. This example comes on a soft black crocodile strap that is blemish and smudge free. The strap looks like it has never been worn. The FlipLock buckle is adjustable to 5 different positions. Like everything Rolex does the clasp is a marvelously engineered item. Folding over the FlipLock offers a satisfying feeling with a secure click. Beating inside the 100-meter water-resistant Oyster case is the fully in-house developed Rolex calibre 4130. This movement made its debut in the 2000 Daytona. In more than 100 years of history, this is Rolex’s first chronograph mechanism developed entirely inside the company. They’ve pretty much always offered watches with stopwatch features but the mechanical components have always been supplied by other manufacturers. With the release of calibre 4130 in 2000 Rolex finally freed themselves from production limitations imposed by other companies. You’d think with the vast manufacturing capabilities of Rolex there shouldn’t be any problem meeting Daytona demand. Such is not the case; in fact, it’s become even more difficult to find a Daytona at your local Rolex boutique. Ever since the first automatic Daytona debuted in the late 1980s it has always been on waiting lists. Even when Rolex agents had plentiful amounts of inventory on display, a steel Daytona would never be been seen on display. The legend of the Daytona continues with the latest ceramic bezel generation. Since the new movement was introduced there is more demand than ever. This example has plenty of its original protective delivery stickers in place. Between the buckle and case, we count no less than 10 stickers that have never been removed.These pictures show where the stickers escaped being removed when the watch was originally delivered. The case and buckle display the original finish and have never been polished or refinished in any way. It comes only with a Rolex box, it does not come with booklets or a warranty card. An 18 karat rose gold Rolex Daytona is a very special watch, this is the first example we had the privilege to offer. The classic look of the crocodile strap with the scratch-resistant ceramic tachymeter bezel perfectly frames the traditional dial layout the Daytona has sported since the early 1960s. We are happy to supply the next owner with a 5-year warranty matching the factory’s. This watch is estate priced at $41,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00288.

December 18, 2022

Rolex Datejust 16220, Submariner 14060, Omega Seamaster 2531.80, Tag Heuer Link WJ1110

We’re running out of time before Christmas and we just don’t have enough hours in the day to properly post some of our recent arrivals. We thought we’d give you a sneak peek at a few interesting watches that are available now. As always we have more watches and jewellery in stock that hasn’t or will not make it to our website.

1996 36mm Rolex Datejust 16220. Complete documentation, packaging, and a very interesting patina on the silver dial that has shifted the colour to a very pale olive/champagne hue. Very cool. $7,300.00 CAD. 505-00334

1998 40mm Rolex Submariner 14060. No box or papers, but with the sought-after “SWISS only” 1-year dial. Rare and collectible. $12,000.00 CAD. 505-00335 SOLD

2006 41mm Omega Seamaster 300 2531.80.00. The “James Bond” watch. Nice condition with a pristine box and most of the original documents, recent factory service. $3,680.00 CAD. 510-00102

39mm Tag-Heuer Link. Classic Tag for someone just getting into the hobby. You can’t go wrong with this low-maintenance quartz. No box or documents but in excellent condition. $1,000.00 CAD. 520-00087 SOLD

December 17, 2022

2021 Rolex Datejust 36 126234 blue dial 18kt. fluted bezel. $13,200.00 CAD. e14675

A proven formula that has defied change yet is still likely the most popular watch on the planet. The Datejust has been around since 1945 with little external change in appearance. Think about how styles have changed in clothes, cars, appliances, and pretty much every other consumer item, yet the Rolex Datejust is a comfortable constant in life. Even though outwardly almost identical this Datejust 126234 was all new for 2019. The 36mm 100 meter water resistant case contains the new Rolex manufactured 3235 automatic winding mechanism with a longer power reserve of just under 3 days. The new movement takes the certified chronometer rating to new levels of accuracy. Rolex claims the new Datejust 36 is accurate to plus/minus 2 seconds per day; this figure is 50% better than the chronometer designation requires. This Datejust is just over a year old and was purchased at an authorized Rolex agent in the late winter of 2021. The bright blue dial with luminous 18 karat white gold indexes markers is a Rolex classic day or night. A solid 18 karat white gold fluted bezel adds some bling plus a luxury touch in keeping with the Rolex tradition. Overall excellent condition, but there is a small impact mark on the fluted bezel at the 32 minute position. The buckle shows some shallow scratches that are easily removed if you choose to. The watch remains in its original unpolished condition. The stainless steel Jubilee bracelet with polished centre links is the dressy alternative to the sportier Oyster design. It comes complete with the original inner/outer boxes, white cardboard sleeve, instruction/service booklet, endorsed warranty card, green plastic chronometer hang tag, and even the original bill of sale is included. Curiously the box top from the outer box was missing when the watch came to us. The new owner will be covered by the balance of the 5-year international warranty until the late winter of 2026. Estate priced at $13,200.00 CAD. Stock #e14675.

December 16, 2022

1976 Tudor Submariner “Snowflake” 9411/0, 1 owner. $9,411.00 CAD. e14605

All Tudor Submariners can be considered “rarish” compared to the Rolex variety. Only around 5% of preowned Submariners on the market are made by Tudor. Vintage Snowflakes are some of the least encountered and the most sought after. The success of the modern series of Tudor Black Bay diver watches can thank the early 1970’s Tudor Subs for design inspiration. The first snowflake dials/hands were developed to add more luminous surface area and make the hour hand distinct from the minute hand in murky water. While the look added utility and function, today it’s just retro-cool. Our latest snowflake came to us from a relative of the first and only owner who wore it for the better part of 30 years before retiring it to his jewellery box where it sat for more than a decade. It arrived here in its original unrestored honest condition. The watch had a couple of service etchings inside the case back, including one from Rolex Canada in 1981. This is a watch that we feel is better preserved than restored. The original dial displays deep patina, and the bezel is nicely faded to a pleasant blue, much paler than when it left the Tudor factory in 1976. The Rolex 9315 Oyster bracelet is intact and original, complete to its matching 380 end links and B date code Rolex buckle. This rare folded link design shows significant stretch and sag, but it is still fully functional and safe to wear. The crown is likely an early service item as it displays the Rolex logo. Almost all Tudor snowflakes from this era have the more modern Tudor shield logos on service crowns and buckles. The embossed Rolex logo on the buckle shows great relief as a testament to its original finish. We just performed a full overhaul of the Tudor modified ETA 25 jewel 2784 automatic movement. After its service, the watch is running great with accuracy results better than expected. At the time of its December 2021 service, a genuine Rolex crystal and case-back gasket were installed. The watch looks freshened up, but still unmistakably vintage. The minute hand is several shades lighter than the hour hand markers. Perhaps it was replaced when serviced by Rolex in the early 80s. We feel the colour differences between the hour markers and hands confirm the honest integrity of the watch and its history. A museum piece, absolutely not, but hugely funky, and desirable? Indeed it is. We are happy to provide the next owner with a complimentary 1-year warranty for peace of mind, trouble-free operation. Finding a blue Tudor Submariner in this sort of original specification is almost impossible today. This vintage piece of Tudor history is estate priced at $9,411.00 CAD. Stock #e14605.

December 15, 2022

1987 Rolex Submariner 168000 “Triple zero” $14,440.00 CAD. e14571

If you’re attracted to this watch because of the simple, purposeful classic look, you’ve got great taste. If you noticed it’s a “triple zero” Submariner you must be a Rolex collector and realize just how rare this one is. Or maybe you’re a Rolex collector and don’t know it yet. The Rolex 168000 is universally regarded as the rarest of all the modern Submariners. This is only our 3rd example that has ever been offered for sale. It’s a peculiar watch known as a transitional model. It exhibits features of the first calendar equipped Submariner 1680 plus characteristics of more recent examples. Sapphire crystal, glossy black dial with 18 karat white gold hour marker plot frames are the most easily recognized updates compared to the original Submariner Date 1680. The 168000 is a Rolex anomaly; a bit of a factory Frankenstein. The 6 digit model designation was a Rolex first; it took 13 years before the second 6 digit model made an appearance. A watch that Rolex itself really doesn’t recognize in any official literature (at least that I can source). What makes the 168000 so rare? It’s the first Rolex to be made from 904L grade stainless steel yet still used the old 3035 movement from the 16800. Previous Submariners used the more pedestrian 316l stainless steel. It seems to me that Rolex didn’t quite have their timing (pun intended) quite right in terms of movement/case production. The new updated 904L grade steel case was ready to go for the yet to be released Submariner 16610 that debuted in 1988. Either the new 3135 movement wasn’t ready or they had lots of the older calibre 3035 leftovers. I suspect the latter. As a result, the 168000 was created to distinguish the old movement/new case watches. Rolex simply added that special extra 0 between the lugs so they could internally keep track of what was what. You’ll also notice that extra zero isn’t even centered making it seem even more like an afterthought. It didn’t take very long to consume the supply of old movements. Most sources speculate that they were used up within 6 months to 1 year. All the examples I’ve seen are “R” serial numbers dating to 1987. A one-year model run is very small for Rolex; the later 16610 model existed for over 20 years. Overall finish and wear look appropriate for a 35 year old watch. The bracelet is in remarkable condition, it is a Rolex replacement from 2005 according to its MA date code buckle. It exhibits almost no stretch and practically no sag. Sleuthing out the cryptic world of vintage Rolex watches is almost as fun as finding that elusive vintage piece. Keep in mind that Rolex is a very secretive company that has made many millions of watches over the years. The vast numbers of examples in the world make it by far the most collected brand. Rolex doesn’t endorse any independent website opinions including ours, so do your homework. Have some fun learning about the most famous watch brand in the world. Whether you consider that little extra zero significant or not, this watch has a great story and it’s a very rare bit of Rolex history. At some point in time, the watch must have gone into Rolex for some service. The original tritium dial has been replaced with a luminova service replacement dial. The synthetic sapphire is in suspiciously perfect condition leading us to speculate it has been replaced. Some strong magnification reveals a laser etched Rolex logo just below the 6:00 o’clock hour marker confirming a recent factory replacement. At the same time, it’s safe to assume the hands and bezel insert are factory service replacement items too as their colour and luminous characteristics all perfectly match. The previous owner decided to update the look with a very expensive Rubber B strap and buckle. The Rubber B strap with stainless steel tang buckle is in perfect condition. Including a one-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty, this watch is estate priced at $14,440.00 CAD. Stock #e14571.

December 9, 2022

Rolex Submariners 116613 Blue or Black $22,000.00 and $20,000.00 CAD 505-00296 505-00317

Black or blue, it’s up to you. Both of these watches belonged to the same person, so he never needed to decide which one he liked best. The black offers a dressier look and blends with any outfit, but that wow, that vivid blue is certainly appealing. No one said this was going to be an easy decision. Both of these 40mm Submariners are hardly worn and in like new condition. They display almost no evidence of use and have never been polished/refinished in any way. We’d be pleased to supply a no charge light polish if you’d like them to look never worn. You will not be disappointed in the condition. Both watches still sport a few original factory applied protective stickers on the buckles and threaded case back. The blue example was purchased in 2014 at a Toronto area authorized Rolex agent and the black version dates to 2008 according to its V series serial number. Other than the dial colour and age, these watches are mechanically identical. If you place significant value in having a complete package, the choice will be easier as only the blue dial comes with its original packaging, tags, documents, and an appraisal from the Rolex agent. The 116613 series of Submariners have been retired for a couple of years and are now becoming more collectible. The “super case” look of this single generation of Submariners distinguishes these from everything that came before and also the current 126613 series of contemporary models. Rolex bulked up the case design by significantly thickening up the 4 lugs but they didn’t change the bracelet width to match. This change made every 2008-2020 Submariner somewhat top heavy looking and much heavier feeling. Collectors love anything unusual and unique when it comes to Rolex. These are not rare watches yet but they are certainly distinct looking and will likely become sought after collectibles in the future. Both come with our complimentary 1-year warranties (pro-rated for 5 years). The blue is estate priced at $22,000.00 CAD stock #505-00296, and the black is priced at $20,000.00 CAD stock #505-00317.

December 8, 2022

1965 Rolex Submariner 5513 $13,260.00 CAD. e12228 505-00082

Before everyone gets upset that the dial has been refinished, the bezel insert is likely a service replacement item, and it doesn’t come with the original Oyster bracelet; look at what it is and what it offers. It’s a vintage 1965 Submariner 5513, one of the most sought after watches on the planet and it’s selling for waaaaaay less than a contemporary used Submariner is. This is a genuine rarity that you can actually wear every day and don’t need to be worried about hurting the value. The 26 jewel calibre 1520 lurking within the 40mm Oyster case is working great and keeping very good time. This workhorse movement is a favorite of watchmakers for its easy servicing and durability. The original Oyster bracelet likely wore out many years ago and has been used with other style bracelets and straps since then. As this watch has already been altered with its refinished dial, why not really customize it with a high quality Rubber B nylon/rubber Cuff strap. This never worn, $300.00 aftermarket strap was specifically made for older Rolex Submariners. Tough, waterproof, and very modern looking. It brings together vintage 1960s with a contemporary edge. The refinished dial has been done to a high standard. The only obvious telltale sign it’s not original is the silver text that should be white. The font is a little thick compared to the original but it is still very attractive on the flat matte finish. For a Submariner of this era, the depth rating should read meters before feet not feet before meters. The luminous plots have been expertly applied to a high standard with just enough surface tension dome. No, it’s not a museum piece and it’ll never win an originality contest but it looks great and comes with a somewhat affordable (at least for Rolex) vintage look that can only come with age. We just changed the plastic crystal with a genuine Rolex replacement; after installation, the watch passed our vacuum test for water resistance. Plastic crystal Submariners hardly ever show up around here anymore. Almost every example that turns up in the market is immediately snapped up and squirreled away by collectors and is never seen again. Including a one-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty, this vintage Submariner is estate priced at $13,260.00. Stock #e12228  505-00082.

July 17, 2022

2020 Tudor Pelagos 25600TN 42mm w/ 3 extra straps $4,700.00 CAD. 505-00378

The Tudor Pelagos is a remarkable watch. Constructed from titanium this is the first watch manufactured by the wholly-owned Rolex subsidiary company to be made of this exotic grey metal. Much lighter than stainless steel, super resistant to chemical attack, and extremely durable but difficult to machine. This is Tudor’s top of the line diver watch with the greatest depth rating of 500 meters (1640 feet). For professional saturation divers the Pelagos comes equipped with an automatic helium escape valve. The purposeful design is all business with huge luminous hands and hour markers. Not only is the bezel “zero” index treated with glowing pigment, but the entire bezel has also been enhanced for a great display in low light no light situations. A watch designed for extreme sporting use requires a great movement, and in this respect, the Pelagos doesn’t disappoint. Tudors MT5612 sets the bar for certified chronometer accuracy levels at this price point. There isn’t much else in the market offering a 70-hour power reserve plus a useful calendar that doesn’t cost substantially more. The snowflake hour hand and flat black paint connect this most modern Tudor with classics from the past. A clever double locking buckle with diver extension and spring loaded comfort clasp is a feature that even the Rolex Submariner is lacking. This watch was purchased new from a Canadian authorized agency in December 2020 and is covered by the factory warranty until the fall of 2027. Comes with 3 extra high-quality rubber and nylon straps from Artem and Crafter Blue. Also included are the original inner/outer boxes, white foam box liner, product tag, Tudor accessory rubber strap with extra long extension, endorsed warranty card, and the original bill of sale. The watch is in very good condition showing just minor signs of use in the form of small scuffs and scratches mostly on the titanium buckle. This more than capable diver/sports Tudor Pelagos is estate priced at $4,700.00 CAD. Stock #505-00378.

SOLD

July 16, 2022

2004 Rolex Explorer II 40mm 16570 never polished $11,000.00 CAD. 505-00319

If originality and condition are of utmost importance, this 19 year old white dial Explorer II should be of interest. This one owner watch was traded in by a watch collector who has been a customer of Bill Le Boeuf for over 30 years. He has so many watches that most rarely see any wrist time. We are 100% confident this watch has never been refinished or polished in any way. All the sharp crisp details are present in their original condition. The lugs are sharp and thick. The embossed “frog toes” logo on the back of the buckle looks like it was stamped yesterday and there is no stretch or sag in the 13-link Oyster bracelet. The diabolically difficult to refinish bezel displays a perfect radial brushed texture with a polished bezel and brushed edge. Crystal is scuff free and the glossy snow-white dial is completely blemish free. Black framed 18-karat gold hands and hour markers are spotless and glow brightly when the lights go out. There are some minor scuffs and scratches on the polished case and bracelet edges but they go practically unnoticed except under very close scrutiny. The rest of this classic Rolex is well known among Rolex fans. Dual time capability, quick setting 31 day calendar, water resistance rating of 100 meters, chronometer grade automatic winding movement with an accuracy expectation of around 5 seconds +- per day, locking buckle, threaded crown, and case back. As a 2004 model, this example benefits from several updates over older 16570 versions. The end links on the bracelet are crafted from solid machined 904l stainless steel instead of the previous stamped links. The lugs do not have spring bar holes drilled through the sides, this gives the watch a cleaner uninterrupted surface. The dial makers and hands have improved luminous characteristics that should continue to glow for decades, unlike the tritium dials from the 1970s, 80s, and 90s that no longer display phosphorescence. The watch is working great, with all functions operating as designed. Including a complimentary 1-year warranty (pro-rated for 5 years) this popular Rolex is estate priced at $11,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00319.

SOLD

July 15, 2022

2022 Rolex Sea-Dweller 126600 43mm (hardly worn) $18,500.00 CAD. 505-00211

It’s not vintage, and it is definitely not from an estate; it is previously owned and hardly worn. If you have been following the Rolex market over the last few years and you are reading this post, you already know just how hard it is to find any professional models. Authorized agents have only waiting lists and perhaps a display-only model if they’re lucky. A visit to any Rolex boutique can be frustrating as they do not have the models you want. Stainless steel sports models are almost impossible to find. No Submariners, no GMT-Masters, no Explorers, and steel Daytonas have been out of stock and on backorder for existing customers for years in some cases. Sea-Dwellers have been around for over 50 years; they have always been the top of the line for professional divers’ watches. Looking almost identical to the basic Submariner except for being slightly larger (43mm vs. 40-41mm), thicker, and bulkier. The purposeful dial has not changed its basic format of bold luminous markers against a jet-black dial since the 1960s. Sea-Dwellers are equipped with a titanium helium escape valve on the side of the case. If you are living in a diving bell while you are decompressing from a particularly deep dive, breathing a mixture of oxygen and helium, your watch will need this valve to bleed off accumulated helium gas as you decompress. Without the automatic valve, the extra-thick sapphire crystal could explode from gas pressure inside the case. Since the initial introduction in 1967 Sea-Dwellers were always 40mm in diameter. For the 50th anniversary of the original Sea-Dweller in 2017, Rolex decided to give the Sea-Dweller a unique identity matching its overachieving water resistance rating of 4000 feet (basic Submariner is rated for 1000 feet) with a larger 43mm case size and some red printing on the dial. The red SEA-DWELLER text is a subtle homage to the original dial from the 60s and 70s. The red paint is applied so thick it actually shows height and reflects light on the high sections. Nice condition original vintage examples are selling for over $50,000.00 these days. Needless to say, this hardly worn Rolex is in excellent condition. There are some fine scuffs and scratches on the case and bracelet but nothing significant. Any marks or blemishes can easily be removed but we always prefer to leave these watches in original condition. We discovered there is still a protective sticker on the edge of a link. The Sea-Dweller 126600 adds a complicated locking buckle system (GlideLock) that not only allows for multiple micro-length adjustments without the need for tools; it also has a 1-inch extension to fit over a light wetsuit. Comes complete with inner/outer boxes, an endorsed warranty card (spring 2022), an instruction booklet, a cardboard product tag with the style/serial number, and a plastic chronometer hang tag. The official Rolex warranty will protect the new owner until the spring of 2027. This collectible Rolex is priced at $18,500.00 CAD. Stock #505-00211.

SOLD

July 14, 2022

2001 Rolex Explorer II 40mm 16570 black dial $11,000.00 CAD. 505-00381

Rolex Explorer IIs are only available in stainless steel with a white or black dial. That’s it, no options, no diamonds, no gold or two-tone cases. Even the dressier Jubilee bracelet option is not available. If you want a classic sports Rolex this may be the model for you. Measuring 40mm in diameter makes for a comfortable size that can be worn by anyone. Not too big and not too small and not too thick. The 16570 has become more collectible since it was replaced with the new larger 42mm version in 2011. The classic glossy black dial is synonymous with a sporty Rolex and always looks great. This is one of the best examples of a 16570 that we have ever had. A few minor scuffs on the outside of the bracelet and buckle. The diabolically difficult to duplicate radial finished 24 bezel is in excellent condition. The entire watch is in great shape. Collectors covet originality and completeness and few are more complete than this example. Everything that came from the factory in Geneva is here. The inner wooded box, outer cardboard box, brochures, warranty paper, calendar, service guide, hanging tags, wallet, and sleeve. The condition and completeness say a lot about the previous owner and how they took care of this watch since its delivery around 2001 from a Canadian-authorized Rolex agent. In March 2015, the watch was treated to a factory serviced by Rolex in Toronto. A Rolex service warranty card and booklet also come included as proof of factory maintenance. Looking at the overall condition you’d swear it was only a few months old not 22 years. The Explorer II is a dual-time model that can display a second time zone in a 24-hour format using the second red hour hand in combination with the easy to read 24-hour fixed bezel. The watch is running great and keeping excellent time. It’s a rugged watch with the Rolex features that have made the prestigious brand number 1 in the luxury watch world. The water-resistant oyster case is made from super-resistant 904L stainless steel. Bright luminous hands/markers made from 18-karat white gold make time interpretation quick and effortless in any lighting situation. The synthetic sapphire crystal that is exponentially tougher than glass while offering perfect optics, a convenient magnified calendar window sure helps out those with 40 plus year old eyesight. A tough and sporty Oyster bracelet equipped with fliplock buckle is a design element that alone almost defines the sporty Rolex. The bracelet and case still exhibit sharp crisp details that become less defined with extended years of hard use. Included with the watch is a one-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty. Estate priced at $11,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00381.

SOLD

July 13, 2022

1956 Tudor Oyster-Prince 34mm 7809 gold plated $1,560.00 CAD. 505-00331

One of the more striking dials ever produced by Tudor has got to be the very rare champagne/silver bullseye combination on this 1956 Oyster-Prince model 7809. The radial finish silver edge adds texture and depth to an otherwise common dial shade. For a watch that is 67 years old, the overall condition is good. The case has the usual signs of wear and tear with a few dings on some of the edges and base metal showing through the lugs. The stainless steel case back has a personal inscription hand engraved on the back from Christmas 1956. The shallow engraved message can easily be removed should you choose to do so. Most watches produced in the 1950s still used hand wind movements, so an automatic winding watch was considered quite a luxury for the era. For hundreds of years, the ritual of winding your timekeeping devices by hand was a necessity.  Rolex/Tudor is not a company to let a marketing opportunity pass them by; so, proudly written across the bottom of the dial is some extra text that reads “ROTOR SELF-WINDING”. The 17 jewel automatic movement is running well and keeping good time after a full overhaul by us in January 2023.  A new 19mm Hirsch leather strap with stitched edges really flatters the rare bullseye tuxedo crosshair dial. At 34mm in diameter, this is an average-sized watch that could be worn by a man or a woman. The black/silver versions of this dial are occasionally encountered on stainless examples of this watch but seeing a champagne/silver version on a gold-plated case is almost never seen. This is the first time we’ve even seen the combination before. Another rare feature of this watch is the fact that it still sports its original “Oyster-Patent” crown and not a later replacement item displaying a Rolex coronet logo. Including Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers’ 1-year warranty, this rare Tudor is estate priced at $1,560.00. Stock #505-00331.

SOLD

July 12, 2022

2005 Rolex Daytona 18 karat white gold 116509 40mm $47,000.00 CAD. 505-00290

Without question, the Rolex Daytona is the most sought-after watch in the world. If you’re shopping for a brand new stainless steel version, prepare to get on a waiting list that from what I hear is now many years long. Used examples of ceramic bezel stainless models are trading hands for well over twice their original suggested retail price. Even two-tone and solid gold models aren’t available for immediate delivery. Any Daytona that makes an appearance in our estate department makes for an exciting day. We’ve had stainless, and 18 karat/stainless steel Daytonas before but all-gold Daytonas rarely make appearances here. Aside from a unicorn platinum version, white gold is the most scarce. This is the first example we’ve ever had on an Oyster link bracelet. While stainless steel gets all the attention they are a little ordinary looking. You can only get them with a white or black dial, that’s it. No other dial options and no option for rubber or leather straps. If you opt for the initially more expensive two-tone or solid gold versions you can choose from dozens of beautiful dials, including mother of pearl or diamonds, oyster bracelet, rubber OsyterFlex strap, or various leather strap colours. For a sporting watch like a Daytona the large Arabic hour markers and red second/register hands really add to the character and are only available on solid gold models. The neutral silver dial background with black highlights goes with any look. Our late D serial number dates from 2005 and is still sporting its holographic case back sticker. At 40mm in diameter, this watch has become increasingly popular with women who like the statement a bigger chronograph-equipped watch makes. While 40mm isn’t considered large anymore, don’t think that this watch isn’t substantial. The entire case and bracelet are constructed from 18 karat white gold contributing to the hefty 208 grams this watch weighs. This one-owner watch was traded in by a long-time customer of Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. The watch shows evidence of careful use over the years and still displays crisp sharp edges on all the machined surfaces and embossed buckle logo. The full-length Oyster bracelet is made up of 12 full-sized links plus the hidden EasyLink extension located under the buckle. The bracelet is showing virtually no sag and zero stretch. Although the case, bracelet, and bezel are showing scuffs and scratches as a testimony to its sporting use, it has never been polished or touched up in any way. Whenever a gold or steel bezel is polished the fine index markings/text lose their sharp edges and fine definition to some degree, it’s unavoidable. Originality is everything with any collectible Rolex, the dial and bezel are everything when it comes to a Daytona. I’m happy to report the debossed tachymetre scale is practically perfect on this example. We’ll happily polish away the scuffs and scratches if you wish but the watch will no longer be original and the crisp sharp edges will get ever so slightly softened. If you’re looking for a Daytona and shopping this one around, I don’t think you’ll find one with a better bezel at this price point. These close-up pictures reveal just how good the bezel is on this one. As with all sport Rolex watches we avoid refinishing cases and bracelets. Most collectors prefer originality over perfection. We will provide a complimentary polish on request but remember something can only be original once. Including a one-year Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty the watch is estate priced at $47,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00290.

SOLD

July 11, 2022

2021 Black Bay Fifty-Eight Bronze 39mm 79012M Boutique Edition $5,500.00 CAD. 505-00299

When you’ve got a winner you should stick with it. When Tudor introduced the Black Bay Heritage line of diver’s watches back in 2012 it was an instant hit. I can’t believe it’s been more than 10 years now and they are as popular as ever. For a simple, no-nonsense timekeeping tool, a Black Bay diver is one of the most legible watches on the market. Over the years the line has expanded to models with calendars, chronographs, dual-time, two-tone cases, and more. Mostly crafted from high grade stainless steel, they occasionally produce models in sterling silver and premium 18 karat gold. Our newest Black Bay estate watch is made from bronze. This unusual metal is mostly associated with marine applications where strength and resistance to corrosion are important. From what we understand the specific alloy that Tudor uses has less copper and more aluminum. Their unique alloy shouldn’t leave you with a green wrist as some copper rich bronze may. This alloy can, will, and does develop a patina specific to each person and what they expose the watch to. Our latest estate Tudor is only a year old and was worn in a very humid sub-tropical environment and often exposed to salt water. The original owner wore it with 2 of the adjustable links removed. We’ve since reinstalled the 2 links and there is an obvious difference in appearance. Given time, wear, and exposure to the elements these 2 links should blend in with the rest. This watch is 100% original and has never been polished or refinished in any way. This model is exclusively available at Tudor Boutiques only. You won’t find one at your local Tudor agency store. It is a comfortable 39mm in diameter and comes with a specific buckle that allows close to 1cm in adjustment. The length can be made adjusted without tools or special skills in any of 5 positions. More room can be made on hot humid days or you can shorten it a touch in cold weather. Too bad every Tudor doesn’t come with this clever “T-fit” buckle. The in house developed MT5400 chronometer fitted within the case offers an extra long 70 hours of power reserve with accuracy expectations as good as the most exclusive and expensive mechanical watch brands. The next owner will assume the balance of the factory’s 5-year warranty covering the watch until the fall of 2026. This watch comes complete with all the original packaging, documents, fully endorsed warranty card, product tag, original invoice, and a never worn or installed golden brown NATO strap. The nylon strap gives this watch a more casual personality and is easily installed with just a small watchmaker’s screwdriver. This scarce Black Bay Fifty-Eight Bronze 79012M is estate priced at $5,500.00 CAD. Stock #505-00299.

SOLD

July 10, 2022

2008 Rolex GMT-Master II 116710LN (1 owner) $15,300.00 CAD. 505-00364

We proudly offer this 1-owner, never polished, discontinued Rolex GMT-Master II model 116710LN. This generation GMT II was the first Rolex to offer the now standard ceramic bezel insert. This new material offers far better scratch resistance than the previous aluminum piece. The new GMT also benefits from the larger “maxi” dial markers and hands, it’s more luminous than previous models, and has a bigger more watertight trip lock crown, heavier bracelet with quick micro-adjustment, plus fliplock buckle. In short, this is not your father’s GMT. It’s a quantum leap in build quality over the previous versions. Like all professional stainless steel watches in the Rolex line up seeing a GMT-Master on display at your local Rolex agent isn’t likely to happen. There have been waiting lists for this model pretty much from the time of its introduction in 2007. Now that they’ve been discontinued the only place to get this version is the secondary market. Since their retirement, these particular models have become especially desirable. Rolex no longer offers a GMT-Master II in stainless steel with a black dial, and totally black bezel. This may be the last of the monochromatic GMT-Masters. Rolex collectors are snapping these up as nice examples come to market. This one was delivered new to a long-time (30-plus years) customer of Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. The watch remains in its original condition and has never been polished or refinished in any way. There is still a protective plastic sticker on the buckle that has been there for 15 years! It does display signs of careful use in the form of light scratches and some minor impact marks. We’d suggest leaving it in its original condition. The collector Rolex market covets originality over all else. It is running great, keeping excellent time, with all functions working as designed. The watch is covered by our 1-year complimentary warranty (prorated 5 years). It does not come with any original documentation or packaging. This very collectible Rolex is estate priced at $15,300.00 CAD. Stock #505-00364.

SOLD

July 9, 2022

Art Deco 14kt. Rolex/Wadsworth 15 jewel 21.5mm wristwatch $1,000.00 CAD. 505-00338

During the pocket watch era, it was common practice to choose the movement you wanted and then select a case to house it in from a completely different manufacturer. You could then decide to have the case hand engraved with many different patterns. Not only did this allow an almost infinite combination of looks it reduced duties from European makes. We think this is why we find a finely crafted 15-jewel Rolex movement with a case made by Wadsworth watch case company Kentucky. The 21.5mm octagon case is more than worthy to hold the Rolex mechanism. The front bezel of the 14-karat white gold case has been completely hand engraved with a floral pattern and fine milgrain highlights. The dial is likely crafted from sterling silver and is also decorated in a hand-engraved floral style. The winding crown features 3 bezel-set antique rose cut diamonds, this is something we’ve never seen before and imagine the owner specifying this detail as an upgrade. There is a curious spot on the dial where a manufacturer’s name was intended to go that was left blank. The short expansion bracelet is 10 karat gold filled and will only fit someone with a small hand and wrist. The 8-section bracelet is in very good condition all the spring-loaded links display proper tension. This pretty little rarity is running great and keeping very good time. We just completed a full mechanical overhaul of the hand wind movement in March of 2023. Including our complimentary warranty, this early Art Deco design wristwatch is estate priced at $1,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00338.