The Mythical 'Left Side Crown' Born from Special Order: ROLEX Datejust 6105 Lefty 18k 1952s Now Available

The standout feature is the crown position: 'LEFT SIDE CROWN,' commonly known as 'Lefty.'

PRINCIPE PRIVE - Epoca d’Oro, renowned for its curated selection of vintage timepieces from the 1940s to the 1990s, highly regarded by watch collectors and fashion enthusiasts worldwide, has acquired the ROLEX Datejust 6105 Lefty 18k 1952s.

In 1945, Rolex launched the Datejust to commemorate its 40th anniversary.

As the world’s first wristwatch with an instantaneous date change mechanism, this model became a symbol of Rolex’s innovation, following the Oyster case, waterproof construction, and Perpetual self-winding mechanism. The model introduced today, Ref. 6105, belongs to the early lineage of the Datejust.

Furthermore, this particular piece features the exceptionally rare 'Left Side Crown' configuration.

Placing the crown on the opposite side from standard watches is not a simple modification.

The Cal.745 movement features a traditional regulating system with a large balance wheel and the Perpetual rotor, which supported the early development of Rolex’s self-winding mechanism.

Although the movement itself is identical to standard models, a special construction is required: the inner ring case that secures the calendar mechanism must be replaced with a dedicated part, and the dial layout must be rotated 180 degrees to enable production.

It is believed that Rolex began offering special-order services in the 1950s for left-handed users, who make up approximately 10% of the global population. The Left Side Crown is one such example, crafted as a special configuration intended for wearing on the right wrist.

The case serial number indicates this piece was manufactured around 1952, confirming its status as an early Datejust.

As it was made entirely to special order, the total production number remains unknown. Surviving pieces and production records are extremely scarce, making it nearly impossible to encounter one on the market.

Moreover, due to its requirement for specialized components, experts can authenticate its legitimacy, clearly distinguishing it from later modifications.

Additionally, this specific watch has a distinguished provenance, having been exhibited and sold at Christie’s auction in November 2005.

The sharply engraved fluted bezel accentuates the brilliance of the 18K gold.

The case is crafted from solid 18K yellow gold.

The soft silver dial, sharp multi-faceted applied indexes, and fluted bezel—more pronounced and defined than modern versions—harmonize to exude the refined elegance unique to 1950s Rolex.

The dial also features the early specification with the French inscription 'CHRONOMETRE' alone, a transitional detail preceding the later 'OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED CHRONOMETER' labeling, making it a distinctive highlight for early Datejust models, which are themselves rare.

Furthermore, it is equipped with an original red-date wheel, where the vivid red printing visible through the date aperture adds a subtle accent to the elegant dial. Both hands and dial retain high originality, making this not only a rare Left Side Crown model but also a historically significant piece within vintage Rolex collecting.

The Cal.745 movement, known for powering early Datejust models, contributed to Rolex’s reputation through its excellent practicality and reliability.

With its rare Left Side Crown specification, solid 18K gold case, and verified provenance, this timepiece stands as a truly exceptional collector’s item, even among the world of vintage Rolex watches.

Model: ROLEX Datejust 6105 Lefty 18k 1952s

Price: ¥4,800,000 (tax included)

Brand: ROLEX Reference: 6105 Lefty Year of Manufacture: 1952

[Condition] - Slight signs of use, but overall in excellent condition.

[Dial] - Original silver dial - Original hands and indexes - 'CHRONOMETRE' inscription only - Red-date wheel

[Strap & Buckle] - Aftermarket leather strap (fits up to 18cm wrist)

[Case] - Solid 18K gold - Size: 35mm (excluding crown) / 43.8mm (lug-to-lug) / 20mm (lug width) / Thickness 13.4mm

[Movement] - Cal.745

[Accessories] - 'PRINCIPE PRIVÉ' Certificate of Authenticity - 'PRINCIPE PRIVÉ' Box

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A new project by PRINCIPE privé.

Since its founding in 2007, PRINCIPE privé has successfully launched numerous brands in Japan.

This is the next stage: the concept is 'the world’s most luxurious vintage watch store.'

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Only the most iconic timepieces in horological history are carefully selected. Offering the deepened beauty of aged dials and the sculptural elegance that reflects the era, it provides the unparalleled luxury of owning time itself—something new watches can never offer.

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