Lot #5024
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1503 18k YG D'Agosto Bracelet Retailed by Serpico Y Laino
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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 often constructed from an entirely gold case, much like the 18k ref. 1503 that we have here, which is mounted to a matching 18k gold Jubilee bracelet made by the Venezuelan jeweller D'Agosto. 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 silver Serpico Y Laino co-signed dial that completes this example's story as a Venezuelan watch, given Serpico Y Laino is a legendary Venezuelan Rolex retailer.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
34mm
Model
Oyster Perpetual Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
1503
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold Jubilee bracelet (by D'Agosto)
Year
1965
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Boasting a bright silver dial, this example's display nicely complements its 18kt yellow gold construction, with its applied 18kt yellow gold indices and hands serving as the perfect link between dial and construction. Additionally, this example's dial also bears the co-signature of the retailer who originally sold the watch at 12 o'clock, Serpico Y Laino, the legendary Venezuelan watch retailer.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring an 18kt yellow gold construction throughout, this ref. 1503's 18kt yellow gold case and matching 18kt yellow gold Jubilee bracelet, which was made under license by the Venezuelan jeweller D'Agosto, which is in keeping with this example's Serpico Y Laino co-signed dial.
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 overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case shows surface scratches and signs of a previous light polish. The hallmarks on the rear of the lugs remain crisp. The fluted bezel is well defined. The Serpico y Laino-signed dial has crisp text, with some light surface spotting and discoloration to several of the lume plots. The hands show some oxidation to the gold finish. It is fitted with a hollow-link Jubilee bracelet made by D'Agosto (The South American contract bracelet manufacture for Rolex) showing light surface marks, light play between the links and a well-defined coronet on the clasp. The bracelet is fitted with 23 links and fits approximately a 7¼” wrist.
Our Perspective
A classic Rolex model by all accounts, the Rolex Date is iconic due to its resemblance to the Datejust, and smaller more palatable size that collectors would have favored during the middle of the 20th century.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
