We’re very happy to offer you guys this beautifully balanced Datejust from the golden age of Rolex: this two-tone Rolex Datejust, a reference 1601 from1969 pairs an honest thick case, with an unpolished 18k yellow-gold fluted bezel and a naturally aged cream dial – the so-called “Panna dial” – this dial has mellowed from a silver tone, to a warm and even cream tone, and is a color only time can produce. The soft patina gives the dial depth and vintage character while preserving superb legibility.

This example wears particularly well on a rare, period correct Jubilee bracelet: the bracelet shows folded (hollow) outer links combined with solid centre links – it’s a so-called transitional construction, and is consistent with transitional, late-60s/early-70s Jubilee variations. The clasp is also a more rare execution with polished outer sides and a brushed center. Both the bracelet and the clasp are less common vintage variants which we don’t see all to often, but matches the watch’s production period perfectly, this of course completes this Datejust’s all original and correct look. This 1601 truly has a wonderful vintage presence, and an authenticity that vintage Rolex buyers prize. Another detail worth noting are the beautifully crafted yellow gold hour markers. Each is fashioned from a small block of yellow gold, brushed on top and flanked by two polished facets on either side. It’s a textbook example of Rolex’s refined 1960s design-language and the art of dial making from that era. Just a few years later, Rolex would abandon these intricate, sculpted markers in favor of the more understated stick markers.. Rest asure that everything is still all original, from the hands, down to the date-disc and everything else on, and inside this vintage 1601 Datejust.

It’s actually is a vintage Datejust of contrasts – steel and gold, it feels refined and relaxed, a crisp case with sharp lines with a warm and gently aged, patinated dial – a watch for someone who wants vintage flair with genuine Rolex provenance – This beauty comes fully serviced, and with our extensive two-years of mechanical warranty.

reference: 1601 (3)
case number: 212XXXX
year of production: 1969
case diameter: 36mm
movement: self-winding, Rolex caliber 1570
box and papers: no