Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 - Grey 'Satin' Dial
Hard to believe - but the Datejust has been around since 1945. It is far older than its bigger and attention-hogging Submariner brethren. The Datejust was Rolex’s idea of the perfect everyday watch. The robustness of the Oyster case, combined with the elegance of an Oyster Perpetual. The ‘4 digit’ series of Datejust are particularly attractive for their pie-pan dials which offer a layer of three-dimensionality to the dials that went away with the advent of quickset date and 5-digit Datejusts. These early Datejusts were available as the 1601, with a fluted white gold bezel, or the 1603, with an engine-turned steel bezel. The 4-Digit Datejusts were also the first series to become available with a myriad of dial colors and case and bracelet materials.
This particular piece is a Reference 1601 from circa 1970 and it comes to us in strong overall condition. The case is likely-unpolished and retains thick and symmetrical proportions at all four concerns and shows normal signs of wear throughout. The characteristic 'fluted' white gold bezel shows matching wear and retains defined finishing. Inside, the grey 'satin' dial shows some of the usual degradation usually found on colored-dials from this era, but presents nicely with something of a 'warm' grey tone throughout. The luminous plots remain fully intact and are evenly patinated with a beautifully matching handset. It comes fitted to a period correct Jubilee bracelet with a signed blade clasp.
All things considered, be it for your one vintage watch, or as an additional to a growing collection, this is a great example.
Condition Report & Details
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Every Oliver & Clarke timepiece comes with a one-year mechanical warranty starting from the date of delivery. We ensure all watches are in wonderful working condition and are ready for daily wear. Many have been fully serviced by our team of watchmakers.
Please note:
- Due to the vintage or antique nature of many of our watches, they may not keep time as accurately as when new, nor as precisely as quartz or electronic devices.
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- Internal or external damage caused by accidents, mishandling, abuse, modifications, or services performed by anyone other than our authorized personnel.
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