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Lot #2600

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1501 Blue Dial

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Introduction

Released in the mid-1950s following the release of the Rolex Datejust, the Rolex Date was a mid-sized version of the Datejust that featured all of its iconic design traits just within a smaller case. Swapping the Datejust’s relatively larger 36mm case for the Air-King’s more quaint 34mm case, the Date was a fashionable watch that fit in with the tastes and aesthetic that was popular during the 50s and 60s. Continuing to offer the Date long into the 2010s, Rolex provided the Date with a wide selection of dial variants, bezel options and case materials. Operating as a watch that could do it all, the Date was most typically made of stainless steel, much like the ref. 1501 that we have here with its decorative engine-turned bezel and Oyster bracelet. A stunning watch that paints a vivid picture of Rolex’s evolution through the ages, the Date collection features a host of interesting timepieces, and the example we have here is certainly a member of that cohort with its stunning electric blue dial that completes this example's noticeably contemporary aesthetic.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

M 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$2,000 – $3,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

34mm

Model

Oyster Perpetual Date

Movement

Automatic cal. 1570

Reference

1501

Bracelet

Stainless steel Oyster bracelet

Year

1975

Condition

Very good

Material

Stainless steel

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Blue

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Featuring a modern favorite electric blue dial with beautifully aged hour hands and luminescent indices, this Date's display is contemporary and vintage at the same time.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Svelte in its sizing compared to modern Rolex, the 34mm Date married the Oyster Perpetual's construction with the Datejust's functionality to produce a watch that hit the perfect middle ground for a lot of collectors, something it still does to this day.

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 exhibits some wear, with soft edges and som small marks visible on the case. Engine turned bezel has minor edge wear and is generally sharp and well defined The original blue dial in excellent condition. The dial surface around the luminous indexes has started to oxidize as visible in the images. The luminous hands are a darker tone than the dial and have started to discolor. Bracelet has 13 links total with 3 removable. There is some stretch in the band.,

Our Perspective

A great introductory piece for new collectors to set foot in to the world of vintage watches, this Oyster Perpetual Date proves that interesting watches may be attained at any price point.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder