Service and Repair
Servicing the Rolex 6511 with its Calibre 1055 movement required careful attention, especially due to the known sensitivity of the day-change mechanism. The movement was fully disassembled, and cleaned in a 5 jar automatic cleaning machine.. Special care was taken with the day wheel mechanism, which is notoriously finicky on the 1055—delicate adjustments were made to ensure the day advanced properly at midnight without hesitation. The movement was then reassembled and lubricated using high-quality synthetic oils for optimal performance. After timing and regulation, the watch performed reliably, with smooth calendar transitions and strong timekeeping, restoring this rare early Presidential model to dependable running condition.
For more general information about repair of vintage watches see the FAQ page. Need to have your Rolex Serviced? Visit the Services page to get started.
History of the Rolex Presidential
The Rolex reference 6511, introduced in 1956, was the first Rolex Day-Date, a model that would become known as the “President” or “Presidential.” This reference debuted both the day of the week fully spelled out at 12 o’clock and the date at 3 o’clock, a world first at the time. It was designed to reflect prestige and innovation, aimed at influential figures and world leaders.
Housed in an 18k gold case with a fluted bezel, the 6511 set the visual and functional standard for future Day-Date models. It was powered by the Calibre 1055, an automatic chronometer-rated movement featuring a date and day complication. The Cal. 1055 was relatively short-lived, as it was known to be somewhat finicky and was quickly replaced by the improved Cal. 1555 in the following reference, the 6611.
Because of its limited production run and its role as the original Presidential Rolex, the 6511 is now a highly sought-after by collectors. See Bob;s Watches for more information.
