Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref. 1500 - Black 'Gilt' Dial W/ Kuwait Signature Unpolished
If you boil Rolex down to its purest form, what do you get?
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual. This is truly the genesis for the entire Rolex brand. The very first Rolex models were called ‘Oysters’ which was owed to their innovative three part case that all screwed into each-other. That is where the fluted bezel actually derives from, being screwed down into the top of the case to secure the crystal with a gasket - as well as the grooves on the oyster case back. All makes sense now - right?
The piece that we have here, simply known as an Oyster Perpetual Date, is a descendant of those early watches, utilizing a water-resistant Oyster case, an automatic-winding movement, and a date complication. A functional, sturdy, and dependable timekeeping device.
Dating to circa 1963, this Reference 1500 features a 35mm Oyster case with a smooth steel bezel and it's correct 'rivet' Oyster bracelet with a blade clasp. The case, bezel and bracelet are all in likely-unpolished condition and show uniform normal wear throughout with no blemishes or damage of note.
The dial within this piece is the real highlight here. It features an always attractive and desirable gloss black 'gilt' dial, something most commonly associated with Rolex's 'Professional' line. Gilt dials were difficult to produce and were ultimately discontinued by Rolex in the later half of the 1960s, as they couldn’t be produced in the same quantity as a matte dial. As a result, these have become coveted by collectors. The dial in this piece is beautifully preserved, retaining its characteristic glossy black surface, with only faint and uniform crazing when viewed under a loupe. The luminous plots are also present in all positions and evenly patinated, and match the 'dauphine handset perfectly. Additionally, this particular dial is further enchanted with a desirable signature on the lower half of the dial. Rendered in silver is the signature of the royal family of Kuwait (in period) where you would normally find the 'SCOC' chronometer text.
The Oyster Perpetual line presents great value next to its slightly larger Datejust siblings, while simultaneously representing the essence of Rolex. You could say that this example, with its 'gilt' dial and additional signature, is exceptional value relative to its siblings from the Professional or an equivalent Day-Date.
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.
- We do not guarantee water resistance and do not warranty against moisture or water damage. Deliberate exposure to water or steam is not recommended.
Warranty Exclusions:
- Internal or external damage caused by accidents, mishandling, abuse, modifications, or services performed by anyone other than our authorized personnel.
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Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
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