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Lot #2968

Rolex Datejust 1630 Two-Tone

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Introduction

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 1630 stands as a historical timepiece, crafted during Rolex's transition to quartz watches in 1975. Produced alongside its stainless steel sibling, the ref. 1530, the ref. 1630 was discontinued in 1977 just before the the Oysterquartz began production. Boasting the Oysterquartz collection’s angular case, which it was originally designed for, Rolex decided to launch the ref. 1530 and ref. 1630 while they were perfecting their own quartz movement. Besides its angular 36mm two-tone stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold construction, the ref. 1630 houses a sunburst champagne dial with applied index markers and a steep rehaut that includes a minute-scale – a reflection of the construction’s adaptability for the thicker quartz calibre that would soon replace the automatic cal. 1570 movement in the ref. 1530 and ref. 1630. As a part of Rolex's enduring legacy, the Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 1630 symbolizes precision and durability, during a time of genuine uncertainty in the watchmaking industry. A timeless testament to horological excellence, this model remains a distinctive marker in Rolex's unparalleled reputation for precision and durability.

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Grade

V 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$6,000 – $10,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

36mm

Model

Oyster Perpetual Date

Movement

Automatic cal. 1570

Reference

1630

Bracelet

Stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold bracelet

Year

Circa 1977

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Champagne

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

With its thick rehaut hinting at the fact the ref. 1630's case was not designed for a thin mechanical movement; its champagne dial has a certain charm that few other Rolex models have. Combined with the warm patina of its gold indices, this example is oozing with plenty of personality.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Bearing a construction style that is quite uncommon for Rolex, the ref. 1630 features the same tonneau case design that the Oysterquartz collection made famous but with its Jubilee-style bracelet in two-tone stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold. Additionally, as a result of its design, its 36mm case wears larger than its measurements suggest.

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 excellent condition. Case retains sharp chamfered edges, awith only minor surface wear. There is oxidation visible on the gold portion of the lugs attached to the head. Caseback has some minor marks visible. Bezel teeth are sharp and have only minor wear. The champagne dial is in excellent condition, with a few minor spots visible on the surface and bezel ring. The crystal has a few minor chips along the edge. Bracelet has 13 links total, 2 of which are removable. It is sized for a 7 1/2" wrist and has minor wear.

Our Perspective

Symbolizing the very different type of company that Rolex was during the 1970s when compared to what they are like today, the ref. 1630 is a unique piece of Rolex's history whereby they decided to release a new style of watch without waiting to have its corresponding movement ready.

Eric Ku

Co-founder