Launched in 1962, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date was Rolex's entry-level watch at the time and was designed for daily use. Most often cased in stainless steel, these watches were true workhorses with their flat steel bezel and rugged design providing protection from daily wear and tear. Similarly specced to the Datejust models of its time, the ref. 1500 featured the same automatic movement, and so boasted a date function and cyclops lens like its more expensive sibling. However, the main point of distinction was that the OP was housed within a slightly smaller 34mm case, as opposed to the Datejust’s 36mm case. Offered with a multitude of dial variants until its discontinuation in the late 1970s, there is certainly a version that would appeal to every taste. A smaller watch by today’s standards but filled with a unique charm, the ref. 1500 was undeterred by its svelte proportions and instead buoyed by the robustness of its design and functionality of its movement, with both elements combining to create a timepiece that will still fit the bill as a daily wearer even for a modern collector to this day.

Watch is in excellent overall condition. Minor surface wear visible on the case and bracelet. Bezel is sharp and crisp. Non-luminous dial in excellent overall condition. There is minor wear on the upper edge of the dial. Hands have light frosting/oxidation as seen in the images. Folded link oyster bracelet has 13 links total. There is minimal stretch.

A great introductory piece for new collectors to set foot into the world of vintage watches, the Oyster Perpetual Date proves that interesting watches may be attained at any price point - including models from Rolex themselves. Additionally, with its rare radial dial and stunning condition, this example has something for seasoned collectors too.