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Lot #3284

Rolex Datejust 1603 Silver Doorstop Swiss Only Dial

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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

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$2,000 – $4,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

36mm

Model

Datejust

Movement

Automatic cal. 1560

Reference

1603

Bracelet

Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet

Year

1963

Condition

Very Good

Material

Stainess steel

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Silver

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Sitting atop its stunning silver pie-pan dial, this example boasts a distinctive set of the so-called "doorstop" hour markers at 6 and 9 o'clock that add a unique visual twist to its monochromatic display.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Featuring a stainless steel engine-turned bezel alongside the Datejust's iconic Jubilee bracelet, this example's aesthetic speaks to the Datejust's signature design elements while also being understated thanks to its monochromatic color scheme.

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 very good overall condition. Case shows moderate signs of wear, with scratches and marks visible. There is some debris trapped between various edges as visible in the images. Surface shows signs of previous polishing, and the lug edge is crisp. There is minor pitting between the lugs, but the numbers are fully legible. Original "Swiss Only" dial in very good condition. There is some surface discoloration and spotting visible. Luminous indexes are intact, and generally match the luminous in the dauphine hands. The bracelet has 18 links total and fits a 7" wrist. There is light notching and the watch shows moderate stretch. There are 4 links that have been removed and are included with the watch.

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 and this example features vast amounts of vintage appeal thanks to its pie-pan dial, engine-turned bezel and doorstop hour markers.