Launched in 1945, Rolex’s Datejust model was originally called the Datejust Jubilee as a celebration of the renowned firm’s 40th anniversary. Over its long history, now spanning eight decades, the Datejust model, similar to the Day-Date, has been produced in many different variations; from different metal types to exotic dials and textured cases. In 1954, the Datejust would introduce the iconic cyclops date magnifier, an emblematic feature found on nearly all Rolex watches with a date aperture up to the present day.

The reference 1601, such as the present watch, was in production from 1959 until 1977 and featured a fluted bezel. Rolex embellished their Datejusts and Day-Dates with additional flair and exuberance by creating delicate hard stone dials to replace the typical silvered dials. Only highest-quality semi-precious stones were sliced and fitted within precious metal (and in rare cases, stainless steel) Datejust cases. These hard stones include tiger’s eye, rubellite, coral, lapis lazuli, malachite, obsidian, opal, and ammonite, as well as jasper like the present lot.

This Datejust from circa 1974 is a very rare red jasper example since most jasper dials typically have a green hue, while this fine example features a uniformly brownish-red hue with no green inclusions. Jasper is a chalcedony stone and thought to have healing and metaphysical properties with red jasper associated with grounding and strength. A timeless classic, this Datejust is sure to captivate with its enduring style and stunning dial.