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Lot #1271

Rolex Gilt Dial Stainless Steel Datejust 1603 Full Set

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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 9

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Box, punched guarantee, swing tag, additional links, green wallet and booklets

Est. value range

$8,000 – $12,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

36mm

Model

Datejust

Movement

Automatic cal. 1570

Reference

1603

Bracelet

Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet

Year

1970

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless Steel

Included

Box, punched guarantee, swing tag, additional links, green wallet and booklets

Dial Color

Black

THE DIAL

Featuring a glossy jet black dial, this example's silver graphics stand proud as stunning reminders of the Datejust's iconic place within watchmaking history.

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

Watch is in excellent overall condition and complete with all accessories. The dial is in very well preserved condition with all lume plots intact. Case and bracelet in very nice original and crisp condition with light surface wear which is consistent with the age of the watch. The numbers between the lugs are very crisp and easy to read. Bracelet is sized to fit a 7" wrist. It can be sized down via the buckle.

EDIT: Listing previously stated bezel was made of WG, this is incorrect and has been amended in the listing.

Our Perspective

The epitome of elegance with its dazzling engine turned bezel, black lacquer dial enhanced with silver graphics, this example would already be a great collectors item but paired with its original box, papers and accessories, this is a truly spectacular find in incredibly original condition.

Eric Ku

Co-founder