In 1970, Rolex introduced their first quartz watch, the reference 5100, which used the Beta 21 quartz movement, a Swiss quartz movement used by around 20 Swiss watch manufacturers. The reference 5100 was unique in its 39mm thick, angular case, featuring a Rolex fluted bezel and a three-link bracelet. It was the first Rolex watch to feature a sapphire crystal and was first produced in yellow gold but some white gold models were also released.
In 1972, Rolex left the Centre Electronic Horloger (CEH) and developed an in-house quartz movement. In 1977, two new quartz movements were introduced: the 5035 caliber for the Oysterquartz Datejust and the 5055 for the Oysterquartz Day-Date. These quartz movements had 11 jewels, a 32khz oscillator, a quick-set day and date function, and hacking seconds for accurate time setting. They were more accurate than any Rolex mechanical movement in production at the time.
Rolex produced their quartz watches for about 25 years, producing 25,000 watches. The two-tone Oysterquartz Datejust was the last quartz available to purchase until 2003 in some authorized retailers. The Oysterquartz Datejust can be found for around $4,000-$8,000, while the precious metals of the Oysterquartz Day-Date command a higher pre-owned price point. The gem-set versions or day-date models with pyramid-style bezel and links are even rarer and command an even higher price point.
