1970 ROLEX REF. 5100 “TEXANO”, BETA 21, 39MM, 18KT YG

A fine gents Rolex ref. 5100, known as the “Texano”, circa 1970.  The first and only true limited edition released by Rolex, the reference 5100 or “Texano” as it came to be known, was produced in a run of 1000 (900 in yellow gold, 100 in white), all of which were sold before delivery.  The reference 5100 was a historic milestone for its firsts – it was the first Rolex produced with a sapphire crystal, a feature that would become an industry standard.  It was also the first Rolex equipped with an early quartz movement known as the Beta 21, which completed development in 1969.  The Beta 21 was co-developed alongside 20 major Swiss watchmaking houses and was accurate to 5 seconds a month, far superior to even the most accurate mechanical movements of the time. 

The 39mm 18kt gold case and accompanying bracelet are quite chunky, having essentially been built around the larger sized Beta 21 movement, inspiring the “Texano” or “Texan” moniker.

The 39mm 18kt yellow gold case on this example remains full and sharp, with defined bevels and hallmarks throughout.  The scalloped bezel is likewise crisp and defined.  The heavy, solid link yellow gold bracelet is factory original and correct with four removable links and has been decorated in a textured pattern known as “Florentine”.  Light evidence of wear throughout.  Gold factory original dial in mint condition with date at 9 o’clock and original and correct sapphire crystal with magnifier.  Signed “ROLEX”, “QUARTZ”, “SWISS MADE”.

The original Beta 21 quartz movement in this watch has been meticulously restored and is running and keeping time to factory spec.

Case:

• 18kt yellow gold
• 39mm
• Case number: 374
• Original knurled gold crown

Movement:

• Beta 21
• Quartz
• 13 jewels
• Center sweep seconds directly run by pallet wheel

Dial:

• Factory gold dial
• Radially brushed
• Applied gold hour indexes
• Center sweep seconds
• Signed “ROLEX”, “QUARTZ”, “SWISS MADE”.