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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Datejust wristwatch

Rolex Datejust 'Midsize' Ref. 6828

Partially verified

This Rolex Datejust 'Midsize', reference 6828, is a vintage wristwatch from the 1980s. The watch is crafted in 18K yellow gold and is paired with a matching 18K yellow gold Presidential-style bracelet featuring a concealed clasp. A notable feature of this reference is the placement of the Rolex font and logo, which are printed on the underside of the watch crystal. The dial is set with pavé diamonds and incorporates black lacquer indices at the 6, 9, and 12 o'clock positions. The handset is also black lacquered to correspond with the indices. The timepiece is fitted with a matching factory-set diamond bezel and features a quick-set date function.

Rolex Datejust Midsize Reference 6828 with factory pavé diamond dial and bezel.
Rolex Datejust Midsize Reference 6828 with factory pavé diamond dial and bezel. — Oliver & Clarke. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
oliverandclarke.com
Category
Wristwatch · Datejust wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
6828
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
1980s
Source-reported place
Switzerland

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Dial Design

The case of this reference 6828 is constructed from 18K yellow gold and is paired with an integrated diamond-set bezel. The dial is paved entirely with diamonds, providing a decorative surface that contrasts with the black lacquer details. These details include indices at the 6, 9, and 12 o'clock positions and the handset, which are intended to match the indices.

A technical feature of this specific model is the application of the Rolex branding directly to the underside of the crystal, rather than the dial surface.

Evidence for this section
  • “dial is entirely done in pavé diamonds and topped off with a matching diamond bezel”
  • “the handset is black lacqured to match the factory-set 'onyx' indices at the 6, 9, and 12 o'clock positions”
  • “Rolex font and logo is printed on the underside of the crystal”

Movement and Functionality

The watch includes a quick-set date mechanism, which allows for the rapid adjustment of the date without manually advancing the hour hand through full 24-hour cycles. This feature distinguishes the 6828 from earlier Datejust models that required traditional manual date setting.

The movement is housed within an 18K yellow gold case and is complemented by a Presidential-style bracelet. The auction description notes that the bracelet is of a 'concealed clasp' design and has retained a high level of structural integrity with minimal stretch over time.

Evidence for this section
  • “making this Carousel a stunner with quick-set date to boot”
  • “fitted to the iconic 18K yellow gold Presidential bracelet”
  • “The concealed clasp Presidential has minimal of stretch”

Provenance and Rarity

According to the provided source, the reference 6828 was produced during a period in the 1980s when Rolex developed several 'special' references for the Datejust line.

The condition of the case is reported by the vendor to be well-preserved, suggesting it has been maintained since its manufacture.

Evidence for this section
  • “By the 1980s - Rolex began making special references!”
  • “this is a solid-gold Datejust which makes it incredibly rare to begin with”
  • “the case is well preserved and ready for its next owner”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber used in the ref. 6828?
  • Does the serial number range for the ref. 6828 confirm a production start date in the early 1980s?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Datejust 'Midsize' Ref. 6828
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Reference6828“reference 6828”
Case Material18K yellow gold“solid-gold Datejust”
Bracelet18K yellow gold Presidential“fitted to the iconic 18K yellow gold Presidential bracelet”
Crystal featureRolex logo printed on underside“Rolex font and logo is printed on the underside of the crystal”
Date complicationQuick-set“quick-set date to boot”
Production period1980s“By the 1980s - Rolex began making special references!”

Visible details

  • Black lacquered hands
  • Onyx indices at 6, 9, and 12 positions
  • Pavé diamond dial and bezel
  • 18K yellow gold Presidential bracelet

Research qualifications

  • The exact year of production within the 1980s is not specified
  • The source does not explicitly define the 'onyx' markers as stone, using the term in quotes

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.