Rolex Prince ‘Observatory’ Art-Deco Enamel Pocket / Purse Watch Ref. 1563

A nearly one century year old Rolex reference 1563 Observatory “purse watch” in black enameled case.
Housed in a platinum-plated steel case (Rolésium, Rolex’s own branding for the use of platinum combined with stainless steel in their watches, first appearing around the 1930s and later revived prominently in the Yacht-Master line) with a black lacquer enamel coating it presents as both a functional instrument and elegant object. The classical two-tone dial remains wonderfully balanced, with its original blued steel hands and decentralized seconds display—a layout reminiscent of period doctors’ watches where legibility was paramount. Inside, the chronometer-rated movement speaks to Rolex’s pursuit of precision, tested in eight separate positions. The watch is triple-signed, with the inside case proudly showing all its patent numbers. A rare addition to any Rolex aficionado’s collection which has been fetching some strong rising auction results over the past decade.