Rolex Datejust - 1601 - Linen

     Rolex first introduced their now iconic Datejust in 1945 as a way to commemorate their 40th anniversary. The Datejust in and of itself was revolutionary, as it marked the first time a mechanical wristwatch featured a date complication. The new innovation was then encased in Rolex patented oystercase. This marked the production of the first waterproof wristwatch case that was made at scale. The Rolex Datejust remained largely unchanged for the better part of 6 decades. Over that time period, the Datejust saw variations in both bezel and dial designs. The dial variations included sunburst, tapestry, Buckley, pie pan, sigma and, our favorite: linen. Call us biased but we love gold, and there is nothing like a champagne linen dial. We've paired it with a dark brown ostrich strap to compliment the rich champagne tones. We are so are pleased to be offering it here in our vintage watch shop!l

ABOUT THIS WATCH: 

MANUFACTURER: Rolex

MODEL: Datejust

REFERENCE: 1601

SERIAL: 30xxxxx

YEAR: 1972

DIAL: The original pie-pan linen dial is in fantastic shape and appears to be free of any staining, patina, blemishes or otherwise imperfections. The dial sports baton style hour markers and hands. The lume on the dial has taken on a charming cream patina while the hands have been relumed in the past and are several shades whiter. 

CASE: The previously polished 36mm steel case is in fair shape. The lugs appear more rounded due to past polishing and have lost their original brushed finishing and crisp lines. The 18kt yellow gold fluted bezel is in good shape. There is some pitting between the lugs that can be seen in our photos. The case is complete by its screw-down case back and original crown. 

MOVEMENT: Rolex automatic self winding caliber 1570. 25 Jewels, 19800 frequency, 48h power reserve. Service history is unknown. The watch winds, sets and runs and is currently keeping good time. The watch was timed over a 24hr period. The 24hrs included periods of wear and non-wear. Over those 24hrs the watch lost 10 seconds. 

BRACELET: Comes on the pictured like new TUNS Ostrich strap complete with quick release spring bars. 

ACCESSORIES: Receipt as proof of service for the movement. 1-year warranty fulfilled by the watchmaker and not Steel City Vintage Watches. 

BOX/PAPERS: No.

BANK WIRE PRICE: $3,499 shipped.