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
$4,000 – $6,000
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
1975
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Champagne
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
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
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
The watch is in overall excellent condition. The stainless steel case shows light scratches and signs of a previous polish, with the engravings on the backs of the lugs still legible. The yellow gold bezel is well defined, with gentle aging visible along the edges and some light marks and tarnishing around nine. The dial is generally excellent, with a small mark between 10 and 11 o’clock, and a minor loss of lume on the chapter ring at nine. The hands show some oxidation. The steel and gold bracelet has surface scratches and light play between the links. The bracelet has 12 links and fits an approximately 7¼” wrist.
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
