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Lot #4670

Rolex Datejust 1601 Two Tone Taupe Dial Steel Jubilee Bracelet

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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

Watch Only

Est. value range

$3,000 – $4,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

36mm x 12mm

Model

Datejust

Movement

Automatic cal. 1570

Reference

1601

Bracelet

Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet

Year

1969

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Taupe

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Featuring a stunning taupe dial with golden inscriptions that prove difficult to see in certain lighting conditions, this example's "Ghost" dial is wonderfully attractive and perfectly suits its gold applied indices, gold bezel, and gold crown.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Offered on an earlier Jubilee bracelet, as denoted by the Q3/1964 date stamp on its clasp, this example's aesthetic is toned down and made a bit more casual thanks to its all-steel construction.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
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 overall excellent condition. The steel case shows surface scratches and light marks, while the yellow gold bezel shows gentle wear and has developed a patina in places. The taupe dial remains near mint, with generally good lume plots and crisp text, while the hands show some light oxidation. Watch is fitted with a steel Jubilee bracelet showing light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 22 links and fits approximately a 7½” wrist.

Our Perspective

One of Rolex's most emblematic timepieces, the Datejust has stood the test of time and lives on with most of its aesthetic unchanged over the several decades it has been in production. It is a truly iconic watch.

Eric Ku

Co-founder