When it comes to luxury watches, Rolex stands out as a beacon of innovation and timeless elegance. While Rolex is renowned for its precision and iconic designs, one of the less commonly discussed aspects is its foray into left-hand drive (LHD) watches. These timepieces, designed primarily for left-handed individuals, have a fascinating history within the Rolex catalogue. Contrary to popular belief, the GMT-Master II "Sprite" released in 2022 is not the first LHD watch by Rolex, though it is the first to feature a left-sided date wheel. Let’s explore the history of Rolex’s most popular left-hand drive models in chronological order.
1950s: Early Commissions
Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 6542
- One of the earliest and most iconic GMT-Masters, the Ref. 6542, saw rare instances of left-hand drive versions, usually custom-made for left-handed pilots. These bespoke pieces were not part of the regular production but catered to the specific needs of clients such as Pan Am pilots.
Source: Philips
Rolex Submariner Ref. 6536/1
- This model was custom-made for diving professionals who preferred wearing their watch on the right wrist, making it easier to handle underwater instruments with their dominant left hand. This was not a publicly released model but rather a special commission.
Source: Sothebys
1960s: Special Orders and Niche Markets
Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 1675
- The GMT-Master II Ref. 1675 had some left-hand drive versions, typically custom orders and not part of the standard production run. The crown was placed on the left side to accommodate left-handed wearers, often professional pilots or military personnel.
Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513
- Another notable example is the left-hand drive version of the Submariner Ref. 5513, crafted upon special request, typically for military divers. These pieces are incredibly rare and highly sought after by collectors today.
Rolex Milgauss Ref. 1019
- The Milgauss, known for its resistance to magnetic fields, also saw a few left-hand drive versions. These were typically created for scientists and engineers who needed a watch that wouldn't be affected by magnetic environments, and left-handed individuals in these fields occasionally requested such models.
1970s: Professional Tools
Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 1665
- The Sea-Dweller Ref. 1665, particularly those made for COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises), sometimes included left-hand drive versions. These professional-grade dive watches were favored by divers who preferred the crown on the left side to prevent it from digging into their wrist during deep-sea missions.
Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680
- While predominantly known in its right-hand drive form, the Submariner Ref. 1680 also had custom-made left-hand drive versions. These were exceedingly rare and generally made upon special request by professional divers or military personnel.
2000s: Extreme Performance
Rolex Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA Challenge (2008)
- The Deepsea Challenge included a left-hand drive version designed for James Cameron's historic Mariana Trench dive. While not a commercially available model, this piece showcased Rolex's commitment to innovation and adaptability, even in the realm of left-hand drive configurations.
2022: A Modern Milestone
Rolex GMT-Master II "Sprite" Ref. 126720VTNR
- The year 2022 marked a significant milestone for Rolex with the release of the GMT-Master II "Sprite," often mistaken as Rolex's first left-hand drive watch. However, it holds a unique place in history as the first Rolex model to feature a left-sided date wheel. The crown and the date window are positioned on the left side of the case, making it exceptionally user-friendly for left-handed individuals. This model was made available to the general public, reflecting a broader acceptance and recognition of the needs of left-handed watch enthusiasts.
Source: Rolex
The journey of left-hand drive watches in Rolex's history is a testament to the brand's enduring commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. From special commissions in the mid-20th century to the groundbreaking GMT-Master II "Sprite," Rolex has continually adapted its designs to cater to the diverse needs of its clientele. While the "Sprite" may not be the first LHD watch by Rolex, its introduction with a left-sided date wheel marks a significant advancement in the brand's inclusivity and design evolution. As Rolex continues to innovate, it will be fascinating to see how they further accommodate and celebrate the unique preferences of all watch enthusiasts.
