Introduction
Introduced in 1945, the Datejust became one of the defining pillars of Rolex’s post-war collection, combining the robustness of the Oyster case and automatic Perpetual movement with the everyday usefulness of a date display. By the late 1960s and early 1970s, references such as the 1603 had established the familiar 36mm proportions that would define the Datejust for decades. Unlike the precious-metal fluted bezel found on many examples, the ref. 1603 uses a stainless steel engine-turned bezel, giving the model a slightly more restrained and sporting character.
Dating to 1970, this example combines that engine-turned bezel with a silver dial and a Rolex ref. 6251H folded-link Jubilee bracelet. Applied baton markers, matching hands and the Cyclops-magnified date retain the simplicity that has made the model so enduring. Inside is Rolex’s automatic 1570 series date movement, while the watch is accompanied by an unusually comprehensive group of original documentation, including punched papers and a punched guarantee booklet.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, punched papers, punched guarantee booklet, card, translation papers and wallet
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Datejust
Movement
Automatic Rolex calibre 1575
Reference
1603
Bracelet
Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
Year
1970
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Box, punched papers, punched guarantee booklet, card, translation papers and wallet
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
The silver pie-pan dial creates a restrained monochromatic appearance against the stainless steel case and engine-turned bezel. Applied baton hour markers and matching hands keep the display clean and highly legible, while the date aperture at three o’clock is enlarged by Rolex’s characteristic Cyclops lens.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 36mm stainless steel Oyster case is fitted with the engine-turned bezel characteristic of the ref. 1603, giving it a more understated appearance than a fluted precious-metal Datejust. This example retains a Rolex ref. 6251H folded-link Jubilee bracelet, an especially appropriate pairing for a watch dating to 1970.
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 stainless steel case shows surface scratches and signs of a previous polish. The engine-turned bezel is well defined. The silver dial shows a couple of small surface marks and a small chip at the very edge near the 46-minute marker. All text remains crisp. The hands show some surface marks, with discolouration to the luminous material in the hour and minute hands. The Jubilee bracelet shows surface marks and moderate play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 21 links and fits approximately a 7½” wrist. There is 1 spare link included. Comes with box, punched papers, punched guarantee booklet, card, translation papers, and wallet.
Our Perspective
The ref. 1603 is one of the most appealing vintage Datejust configurations, balancing the familiar elegance of the model with the more utilitarian character of a steel engine-turned bezel. The silver dial and folded-link Jubilee bracelet make this 1970 example particularly cohesive, while the accompanying punched documentation adds considerably to its appeal as a well-preserved vintage Rolex package.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
