Rolex Datejust Oysterquartz

Why We Love It Yeah, OK, its a quartz watch. And we don't often like use the 'Q Word' around these parts. But every once in awhile, we'll make an exception for something exceptionally cool - and a killer white Roman dial Oysterquartz certainly checks the box for exceptionally cool! Featuring a 70s-styled case with integrated bracelet, the Oysterquartz is a strange leftover from the crisis era, in which even the mighty Rolex experimented with the new quartz technology that was pummeling the mechanical watch industry.  But instead of going downmarket, Rolex utilized the sporty Genta-inspired design language of the era and introduced an entirely new case style in which to introduce their new tech - a design choice that was loved by some, hated by others, and is without question a quirky choice for a Rolex branded wristwatch. This particular example, a Reference 17000, dates to circa 1991, and features a stunning glossy white dial with applied Roman markers and coronet, printed chapter ring, and Tritium luminous plots and hands. This piece retains a crisp case with defined beveling - a must have when considering an Oysterquartz. Fitted with its correct signed bracelet and clasp, crown, and magnified sapphire crystal, this is a beautiful example of one of the strangest times in Rolex's history. The Story When you think of Rolex, your first thoughts may be the unmistakable GMT Master with its two-tone "Pepsi" bezel, the aviator's timepiece designed for Pan-Am pilots and transatlantic jet flights. Or you might imagine the form-follows-function Explorer I, the watch designed for mountaineers and tested under the most extreme conditions on earth. Mostly likely, you'll think of the Submariner, the legendary diver by which all others are measured. There's no denying that a Rolex Submariner is one of the most iconic watches of the last 60 years, but the same can easily be said about its smaller, dressier sibling, the Datejust. Designed for the fluctuating conditions faced in everyday wear, the Datejust was the world's first wristwatch ever to incorporate a date function, and has been worn proudly by presidents, athletes and movie stars - and probably your grandfather. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again; with perfect proportions, a robust automatic movement and timeless styling, the Rolex Datejust may simply be the most versatile and wearable watch ever designed - in any configuration.