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 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Datejust
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
1603
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1974
Condition
Near-Mint
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Slate grey
![THE DIAL](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/j0ua8uvr/production/66612aedf291d5b7ca707e9956f03041b4aea48c-2400x2400.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
THE DIAL
Featuring a stunning grey dial to complement its stainless steel case and engine-turned bezel, this example's aesthetic is understated and appealing with its monochromatic color scheme.
![THE CONSTRUCTION](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/j0ua8uvr/production/37dcae2a28c2c3637a7d0def872892a0c20fed9c-2400x2400.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
THE CONSTRUCTION
Combining a stainless steel engine-turned bezel with an Oyster bracelet, this example's aesthetic is on the more toolish and understated side than the typical Datejust example with a fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet combination.
![TIMING MACHINE READOUT](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/j0ua8uvr/production/f3267c5c458974217c37fdfc019783a5ec1e7a85-750x750.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
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 near-mint vintage condition. Case exhibits minor scratches along the polished surfaces, as well as some marks on the acrylic crystal. Bezel teeth are razor sharp as are the edges of the case. The dial in near-mint condition with evenly toned luminous that matches the hands. Caseback retains the original caseback sticker. Bracelet has 13 folded links total, and fits a 7 1/4" wrist. There is little to no stretch in the band.
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 like its original caseback sticker and rolled steel links.