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Lot #2028

Rolex Datejust 1601 Slate Dial with Guarantee

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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 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Hand Written Guarantee Papers

Est. value range

$4,000 – $6,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

36mm

Model

Datejust

Movement

Automatic cal. 1570

Reference

1601

Bracelet

Stainless steel Oyster bracelet

Year

1974

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel and 18kt white gold

Included

Watch and papers

Dial Color

Slate grey

THE DIAL

Featuring a stunning grey dial to complement its stainless steel case and fluted 18kt white gold bezel, this example's aesthetic is understated and appealing with its monochromatic color scheme.

THE BEZEL

While made of 18kt white gold, this example's fluted bezel has aged in a manner so as to include a wonderfully rich patina that gives it a unique aesthetic.

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 excellent overall condition. Case has some minor wear on the surface and generally soft edges. The 18k white gold bezel is exhibiting a yellow hue due to the gold showing thru the rhodium plating. The band has 13 links with little stretch. PLEASE NOTE: The guarantee paper that accompanies this watch is hand written (as most watches retailed by Bucherer were), and the serial number was written in incorrectly, as the true serial number is 2,949,968 but it is written on the guarantee as 2,949,668.

Our Perspective

A signature Datejust variant, the ref. 1603 that we have here is a splendid example of fine Rolex watchmaking with its iconic design and robust construction proving to be rather timeless indeed. Furthermore, with its unique patina this example is certainly not something you will see everyday.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder