Rolex Datejust 1601

Why We Love It Rolex Datejusts in solid Yellow Gold are something of a rarity. Datejust cases were, and continue to be, primarily constructed from steel- reserving the precious metals primarily for its more elevated Day-Dates. So when we come across a solid Gold Datejust, we always jump on it. This example, a beautiful 1601 features a 36mm solid gold case constructed from 14k Yellow Gold. Opposed to 18k gold, 14k was designated for the United States market, appeasing to import restrictions. Within the case lays a nearly flawless champagne dial with lightly patinated tritium plots. When paired with a vintage Rolex branded alligator strap, this piece is far more understated than what most might expect of a solid gold Rolex.  The Story In production continuously since 1945, the original Datejust was the world's first wristwatch to incorporate a date disc and aperture at 3 o’clock. The cyclops magnifier over the date window was introduced in 1954, and as we all know became a signature Rolex design cue.   Since then, dates at 3 o’clock has become commonplace, and the Rolex cyclops magnifier bubble has become a hallmark of the brand. Datejusts have proudly been worn by presidents, athletes and movie stars (and probably your grandfather), in a testament to how timeless and versatile the watch truly is. Where so many watches can be a little too big here, or a little to small there, the Datejust is just right, embracing the wrist with its thin and tapering 36mm case. And while recent horological trends have favored large wristwatches, the age of the giant watch is behind us (thankfully), making more reasonably sized watches, like the original Datejust, a pleasantly stylish option that fits the bill. There's a magic to the Datejust's simple design, a timelessness that speaks to how true style never dies.