- The present Rolex Datejust ref. 1601 from circa 1970 is a classic example of one of Rolex’s most iconic and enduring models. The Datejust was launched in 1945 and introduced the now ubiquitous date window at 3 o’clock. This particular model features Rolex’s self-winding perpetual movement, the cal. 1570, which provides a power reserve of 48 hours.
- The 36mm stainless steel case retains its original brushed finish, a perfect size for a sporty yet elegant aesthetic. The silvered pie pan dial with baton indexes is certainly a classic. The luminous material has developed an appealing warm patina consistent with age.
- Preserved in excellent overall condition with strong lugs and case, the present Datejust is a wonderful example of an icon that has stood the test of time and remains as wearable today as when it was first purchased over 50 years ago.
Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.
One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.