Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 1601, Sigma Linen, Steel

Launched by Rolex in 1945, in celebration of the brands 40^th Anniversary, the Rolex Datejust was the first self-winding wrist chronometer to indicate the date in a window on the dial. Since this introduction, the Datejust has become one of the most iconic and popular watches in the Rolex catalogue. It was described alongside the Rolex GMT and Submariner, in the brands marketing materials of the time as “a bit of both, and a substantial character at any level”. With its understated look and size, it offers a practical, everyday alternative to Rolex’s other highly-purposeful tools watches - Chronometer certified, waterproof, with a near-perfect aesthetic balance.

The Datejust combined many of Rolex’s most successful innovations, including Rolex’s two-piece, screw-down case. In 1926, the ‘Oyster’ case became the very first waterproof wristwatch case to be produced serially, as well as the first fully-integrated waterproof case overall. This particular case dates to 1972 (serial 314 XXXX).

The dial of this Rolex Datejust is in exceptionally good condition, has a linen silver finish, applied index markers, with classic 'ROLEX’ and ‘OYSTER PERPETUAL DATEJUST' text referenced on it. The tritium dots on the T-Swiss-Made-T dial are all present, and show the same light patina as the handset. It also has its Rolex crown and comes equipped with its original Jubilee bracelet and clasp.

Inside the watch, it houses Rolex’s calibre 1570 ‘Officially Certified Superlative Chronometer’ grade automatic movement. The mechanism features a lever escapement, 26 jewels, mono-metallic balance and KIF shock-absorber, beating at a rate of 19,800 BPH. A distinctive characteristic of Rolex’s Cal. 1570 is the use of brightly-coloured, pink reverser gears in the automatic winding module. The unique colouration is created using Teflon, a branded form of Polytetrafluoroethylene, as a coating, resulting in far less friction.

Viewings can be arranged in Central London by appointment only.

Closer look

Brand:	Rolex
Model:	Oyster Perpetual Datejust Ref. 1601
Movement:	mechanical automatic Cal. 1570
Functions:	date, hours, minutes, centre seconds
Features:	unrestored dial, linen sigma dial
Case:	36 mm stainless steel
Crystal:	plexiglass
Bracelet:	Rolex jubilee bracelet
Year:	1972
Box & papers:	N/A