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Lot #1126

Rolex Datejust 1603

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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

Model

Datejust

Movement

Automatic cal. 1570

Reference

1603

Bracelet

Stainless Steel Jubilee bracelet

Year

1966

Condition

Very Good

Material

Stainless Steel

Included

Watch Only

Dial Color

Silver

THE DIAL

Slightly evolved due to its age, this Datejust's silver dial has developed a yellow hue, giving it a champagne undertone.

THE MOVEMENT

Powered by the cal. 1570, the ref. 1603 Datejust offered here features 48 hours of power reserve and comes with a free-sprung Breguet hairspring and Kif Ultraflex shock absorption system.

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

The overall condition is very good. Dial appears to be in excellent condition. Crystal has minor surface abrasions. Case and bracelet have surface scratches throughout, consistent with average wear. Bracelet is currently sized to fit a 6 3/4" wrist, however there are 5 additional links included.

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