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 and punched guarantee
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm x 12mm
Model
Datejust
Movement
Self-Winding Cal. 1570
Reference
1601
Bracelet
Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
Year
1979
Condition
Very good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch and papers
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Offered with a bright silver dial, this example's monochromatic aesthetic is highlighted all the more thanks to just how much its pumpkin lume plots are consistently aged and complete.
THE CASE
Offered with a white gold bezel, the example we have here is presented in crisp condition with sharp fluting, tight end links, and sharp case edges.
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
In very original and crisp condition. The dial with some minor spotting, the lumes are all complete and have aged consistenly to a pumpkin orange. The hands are oxidized and the lume within the hands is a slight different color. The crystal with light wear, the bezel is very crisp but with some minor wear and oxidation throughout. The case with very good definition, thick lugs and nice proportions. There is light surface wear throughout. The case back with two very prominent indentations caused by the wrong tool being used to open. The Jubilee bracelet is very tight and in good original condition, with light surface wear, 22 links, 3 removable.
Our Perspective
An icon inside 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
