Rolex FAP - Fuerza Area Peru

A fascinating collaboration in the world of military Rolexes, dating back to 1962, after initially using some Omega models, the Peruvian Air Force (FAP) began receiving several professional watches and chronographs from Rolex. Among the models supplied were:

• Daytona 6238
• Daytona 6263
• Submariner 1680
• GMT-Master 1675
• Turn-O-Graph 1625

The collaboration between Rolex and the FAP is believed to have been born thanks to the close friendship between the official Rolex retailer in Lima and Heineger, head of Rolex South America and father of Patrick Heineger, future General Manager of Rolex SA.

Production and Numbers

It is estimated that approximately 700-800 Rolex watches were delivered to the FAP, although there is no precise official documentation confirming the exact number. (ph.: bulangandsons.eu)

Distinguishing Features of the "FAP" Models

The watches delivered to the Peruvian Air Force share some common characteristics:

• Standard Production Dials: The dials, from 6239 to 6263/6265, were the standard ones, often without the Daytona inscription.
• Internal engravings: The inside of the caseback features the "Fuerza Aérea del Perú" inscription, engraved in a Roman sans-serif font and filled in black enamel. The final three-digit serial number of the case is also duplicated. Over time, the black filling has often worn away, leaving only the engraving visible or, in the most extreme cases, almost completely erased.
• External military numbering: A unique issue number was engraved on the outside of the caseback, corresponding to the official FAP registers. This engraving was extremely thin and, in most cases, has worn away over time, making well-preserved examples even rarer.

Rarity and Fascination

Due to limited documented information and the natural wear and tear of time, finding an authentic Rolex "FAP" today is extremely rare. However, from time to time, these fascinating examples appear at major international auction houses, always arousing great excitement among collectors and military watch enthusiasts.