Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 - 'Lavender' Dial W/ Papers
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 fantastic overall condition. The case has been very gently and tastefully previously polished, retaining correct proportions and shows normal wear. The characteristic white gold 'fluted' bezel and the Jubilee bracelet have seemingly been spared of previous polishing and shows matching wear. Inside, this piece features a stunning and rare dial. Purple in color, it has a vibrant sunburst finishing with black printed text and applied indices and is seemingly devoid of any wear or inconsistencies. The Tritium plots remain fully intact and exhibit a rich and even patina throughout, with a nicely matching handset.
Additionally, this piece is accompanied by punched guarantee papers.
These Lavendar-dialed Datejusts are quite a bit rarer than you may think... We only see one or two per year, so don't miss out on this fantastic example.
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