Up for sale is a remarkable piece of horological history: a genuine Vintage Oyster Watch Company Oyster Raleigh from the World War II era. The Oyster Watch Company was owned and operated by Rolex, and during WWII, Rolex used the Oyster Watch Co. name to navigate tariffs and import restrictions in certain markets, particularly in the UK and Canada. Because of these regulations, watches were branded Oyster Watch Company instead of Rolex, even though they were manufactured using the same components, built to the same standards, and fitted with Rolex’s patented waterproof Oyster case. While the dial does not display the Rolex name, this is still a Rolex-built watch, making it a highly desirable and historically important collector’s piece.

This example features the Oyster Raleigh configuration and is powered by its original high-end 17 jewel Caliber 59 movement, which is more premium and less commonly encountered than the standard 15 jewel versions found in many wartime examples. The watch is currently running smoothly and keeping accurate time.

The watch has aged gracefully and shows signs of use and age consistent with a genuine WWII-era timepiece. The dial, hands, case, and movement are original, preserving its vintage authenticity and strong collector appeal. The original dial features blued steel hands and Arabic numerals, delivering the classic vintage military aesthetic. The watch is fitted with an extremely rare NOS era-correct Bonklip bracelet, which complements the period look perfectly.

Key Details:

• Brand: Oyster Watch Company (Rolex-owned wartime brand)

• Model: Oyster Raleigh

• Movement: Original Caliber 59

• Case Size: Approximately 29mm

• Era: World War II (1940s)

• Condition: Running and keeping accurate time; shows signs of use and age

• Dial: Original dial with blued steel hands and Arabic numerals

• Bracelet: Extremely rare NOS era-correct Bonklip bracelet

Whether you are a vintage Rolex collector or a fan of historically significant military timepieces, this Oyster Watch Company Oyster Raleigh represents an outstanding opportunity to own a true Rolex-built watch from one of the most fascinating chapters in Swiss watchmaking history.

Ships carefully. Feel free to message me with any questions.