Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date with 'Mickey Mouse' Dial
Horological instrument; stainless steel wristwatch • Watch manufactured by Rolex (Geneva); Dial customization attributed to third-party aftermarket decorative workshop (Non-factory edition)
Style & Movement
Mid-century Industrial Design; Custom Pop Culture horology
Medium & Technique
Stainless steel casing and bracelet (Oyster style); mechanical movement; customized painted dial (pad printing/hand painting)
Creation Period
Circa 1970s - 1980s (based on Reference 1500 or similar Oyster Perpetual Date models)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 34mm case diameter (Standard men's/unisex mid-size of that era); circular format
Subject Description
A classic stainless steel Rolex featuring a round white dial. The dial includes a date window at 3 o'clock with a cyclops lens and is notable for a depiction of Walt Disney's Mickey Mouse positioned at the 9 o'clock index.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Fair. The dial shows some aging; the stainless steel casing and bracelet appear to have surface scratches and wear typical of regular use.
Estimated Market Value
$2,500 - $4,500 USD (Depending on movement authenticity and mechanical health)
Auction Estimate
$2,000 - $3,500 USD
Provenance History
Unknown general private ownership; likely acquired through the vintage secondary market where such 'Disney' modifications were popular in the 1980s and 90s.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the intersection of luxury status symbols and mass-market pop culture. While not a factory collaboration (Mickey Mouse Rolexes are widely considered aftermarket customizations), it reflects the 20th-century trend of personalizing iconic brand-name goods.
Notable Features
The 'T SWISS T' signifier at the bottom indicates the use of tritium for luminosity; custom Mickey Mouse graphic; engine-turned or fluted bezel variation.
Condition Issues
Visible surface oxidation on the indices; potential stretch in the bracelet links; scratches on the bezel and lugs; aftermarket dial modification diminishes purity for purist collectors.
Conservation Recommendations
Full mechanical service by a specialized watchmaker; ultrasonic cleaning of the bracelet; avoid polishing if original edge chamfers are desired; store in a temperature-controlled environment.