1970 Rolex Texano Beta 21 Ref. 5100

Texano

Only Texan Oil Billionaires can afford a Beta 5100, that’s where this watch got its nickname from. The Beta 5100 is one of the rarest serial production Rolex watches, from the limited run of 1000 pieces, 900 were made in yellow gold and 100 in white gold, each case is individually numbered with a running number.

The Beta was firstly launched in 1970 as the first Quartz watch in Rolex history but it was not just a Quartz watch.The Texano is the first watch to bear a sapphire crystal as well. It was something new, something opulent and something for the rich, this at the time most expensive Rolex watch had a gigantic 40mm solid gold case and uniquely design bracelet, which was ahead of its time with the futuristic design. It was discontinued very shortly after in 1972 due to the lack of demand for the watch whereas the initial launch pieces were sold out prior to the launch in 1970. Not only was it's the gold which was making this watch exorbitantly expensive but also at the time new Quartz technology. In this case with a sweeping seconds hand but proudly mentioning 'Quartz' on the dial.

This stunning example of the Texano is in excellent condition retaining a sharp and healthy case and a very good and long bracelet. The angular gold bracelet is clearly inspired from the presidential bracelet and carries a lot of Rolex DNSA. The dial is in pristine condition and not showing any wear to the naked eye, the lume dots have gracefully aged to a caramel colour and matching the hands.

The Texano is a piece of Rolex history, a very extraordinary piece which is definitively an eye catcher and conversation piece.