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 linen.
ABOUT THIS WATCH:
MANUFACTURER: Rolex
MODEL: Datejust
REFERENCE: 1601-3
SERIAL: 213xxxx
YEAR: 1969
DIAL: The original pie-pan linen dial is in great shape. The dial remains free of any staining, patina, blemishes or otherwise imperfections save for some very minor staining between the 11 and 12 o'clock hour markers. The dial sports stick hour indices and baton hands.
CASE: The previously polished 36mm steel case is in good shape. The lugs continue to retain some of the brushed finishing on the anterior portion all 4 lugs. The case presents with wear commensurate with 54 year old watch. The engine turned bezel is also in good shape with light wear.
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 gained 5 seconds.
BRACELET: Comes on a folded link jubilee bracelet. The clasp is from 1991 and is an authentic Rolex service clasp. It opens up a little stiff but otherwise operates normally.
ACCESSORIES: None.
BOX/PAPERS: No.
BANK WIRE PRICE: $3,599 shipped on jubilee. $3,300 shipped on strap.
