Rolex Datejust

The Rolex Datejust has become a staple of the vintage watch world.  It's beauty and elegance is regarded as one of the iconic designs and it's relentless timekeeping is unparalleled.  With it's delightful 36mm case and fluted bezel, the Reference 1601 is pure classic that has become the linchpin of the gentleman's wardrobe. This particular Rolex is one of the more stunning expressions of the classic line.  The steel Oyster case with fluted gold bezel cradles a beautiful gold dial with coffin hour markers which echo the sword hands, a pairing that is rarely seen in these models.  In excellent condition, this Reference 1601 dating from the late 1950s offers an urbane look that any discriminating collector will love.     History 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. For a great look at the history of the Rolex Datejust, click on over to a great piece on HODINKEE, here.