Introduction
Released to celebrate Rolex's 40th anniversary in 1945, the Rolex Datejust has become one of the Genevan Giant's most iconic watches. The world's first wristwatch to display the date via an aperture on the dial, the Datejust revolutionized wristwatch design for decades to follow. With its emblematic Cyclops lens, jubilee bracelet (designed specifically for the model in 1945), and classy fluted precious metal bezel, the Datejust's aesthetic has always been that of pure elegance and class. Perhaps one of Rolex's most recognizable designs, the Datejust has evolved from its dressier roots into a perfectly capable timepiece rivaling the robustness of most brand's sports watches. Featuring a stainless steel case with a screw-down crown and caseback, the Datejust packs an impressive 100m of water resistance alongside its consistently capable movements and construction that have enabled it to become one of the best-equipped watches for daily wear and tear. Available with several different dial options, in a multitude of materials, and across many styles, the Datejust is an inescapable reflection of its owner, with a model out there to suit pretty much everybody's tastes and preferences.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$2,000 – $4,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Datejust
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
1601
Bracelet
Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
Year
1973
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainess steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Blue
THE DIAL
Featuring a subdued shade of blue, this example's dial is distinctive for its pie-pan design whereby its chapter ring cascades down from the edge of the minute scale and into the rehaut housing the outside of the dial.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Combining an 18kt fluted white gold bezel with the Datejust ref. 1601's folded-link jubilee bracelet, this example's construction retains the Datejust's signature exuberance.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in very good overall condition. Case shows moderate signs of wear, with some debris trapped in the crevices, and some wear visible. Minor dings visible upon closer inspection on the edges. Original white gold fluted bezel with some light softness to the teeth. There is light pitting between the lugs, but numbers are legible and fully visible. Original blue dial is in very good condition. There is oxidation along the pie-pan dial, and some chipping on the edge of the dial visible. The dial does not have any luminous, but the hands are luminous and have cracked/damaged luminous inserts as seen in the images. The bracelet has 22 links total, and there is moderate stretch.
Our Perspective
An icon in and outside of watchmaking, the Datejust's heritage precedes itself and the ref. 1601 has been integral to the establishment of the model's early reputation as a tough luxury timepiece.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
