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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Manual-wind wristwatch

Rolex Oyster Precision Ref. 2280

Partially verified

This Rolex Oyster Precision, reference 2280, is a manual-wind wristwatch dating to circa 1942. The timepiece features an Oyster case, a design characterized by its three-part construction and a screw-down crown. The watch is equipped with a manually-wound movement. The silver-toned dial shows uniform patina and includes rose gold-tone Arabic numerals and matching rose gold-tone feuille hands, with a subsidiary seconds dial positioned at the six o'clock mark. The watch is fitted with a smooth steel bezel and is presented on a metallic bracelet. The watch is categorized by the vendor as a midsize model. According to the seller, the exterior shows a symmetrical case and features a caseback engraving, although the specific text or image of the engraving is not provided in the source documentation.

A front-on view of the Rolex Oyster Precision showing the dial with rose gold-tone hands and Arabic indices, subsidiary seconds dial, and smooth steel bezel.
A front-on view of the Rolex Oyster Precision showing the dial with rose gold-tone hands and Arabic indices, subsidiary seconds dial, and smooth steel bezel. — Oliver & Clarke. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
oliverandclarke.com
Category
Wristwatch · Manual-wind wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
2280
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1942
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 Rolex Oyster Precision reference 2280 is constructed with a three-part Oyster case, a system designed for water resistance that involves components screwing into each other. The watch features a smooth steel bezel and a screw-down crown, which were components associated with the Oyster series. The case is described as midsize by the vendor.

The dial surface displays a silver finish with uniform patina accumulated over time. The hour markers consist of rose gold-tone Arabic indices, which are paired with matching rose gold-tone feuille-style hands. A subsidiary seconds dial is positioned at the bottom of the dial, centered at the six o'clock mark. The word 'Precision' is printed above the subsidiary dial, and the Rolex Oyster logo is positioned below the twelve o'clock marker.

Evidence for this section
  • “innovative three part case that all screwed into each-other”
  • “correct smooth steel bezel”
  • “a screw-down crown”
  • “silver dial within shows uniform patina”
  • “rose gold-tone 'Arabic indices and a matching rose gold-tone 'feuille' handset”

Movement and Functionality

This timepiece operates on a manual-wind mechanical movement. The watch functions as a straightforward timekeeper, omitting secondary complications. The design is described by the vendor as a descendant of early Rolex Oyster models, utilizing the water-resistant case architecture to protect the manually-wound caliber inside.

The crown is used to wind the watch and manage the time setting, adhering to the standard operation of screw-down Oyster crowns.

Evidence for this section
  • “manually-wound movement”
  • “utilizing a water-resistant Oyster case”
  • “a manually-wound movement, and nothing else”

Condition and Attribution

The watch is attributed to circa 1942 by the vendor. The overall condition is reported as strong, characterized by a symmetrical case geometry. The dial reflects its age through a uniform layer of patina. The seller mentions that the caseback features an engraving, although no photograph confirms the specific content of this engraving.

The watch is presented on a metallic bracelet, though the source does not provide specific details regarding its origin or period of manufacture in relation to the watch head.

Evidence for this section
  • “Dating to circa 1942”
  • “offered in strong overall condition, with a nice symmetrical case”
  • “Flip this piece over and there is an always alluring caseback engraving.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific text or motif engraved on the caseback?
  • Does the movement contain a specific caliber number consistent with a 1942 production date for reference 2280?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Oyster Precision Ref. 2280
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Datecirca 1942“Dating to circa 1942”
MovementManually-wound“a manually-wound movement”
Case typeOyster“utilizing a water-resistant Oyster case”
Dial detailsRose gold-tone Arabic numerals and feuille hands“rose gold-tone 'Arabic indices and a matching rose gold-tone 'feuille' handset”
BezelSmooth steel“correct smooth steel bezel”

Visible details

  • Silver-toned dial with uniform surface patina
  • Rose gold-tone Arabic numerals and feuille hands
  • Subsidiary seconds dial at the six o'clock position
  • Screw-down winding crown

Research qualifications

  • The specific details of the caseback engraving mentioned are not visible in the provided photographs.
  • The precise mechanical condition of the manual-wind movement is not verified.

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

Consulted source

ساعت مچی Rolex Oyster Precision رفرنس 2280

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 2d3c49ed71

Terms in this record

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

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