It is nearly impossible to discuss the impact of Rolex on the world of horology without mentioning the Datejust. Despite its fundamental position within the Rolex catalog, the Datejust does not receive the same level of attention and acclaim as many of Rolex's other timepieces, such as the iconic Daytona, the timeless Submariner, or the practical GMT-Master. While Datejust watches may not fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars at auctions like some other Rolex collections, it could be argued that no other timepiece has played a more significant role in Rolex's widespread and enduring success than the humble yet beloved Datejust.
For almost three-quarters of a century, the Datejust has served as the backbone of the Rolex lineup, and for many individuals, the Rolex Datejust is the only watch they will ever need. Its understated elegance, reliability, and timeless design have captivated generations of watch enthusiasts. From its inception, the Datejust has embodied the essence of Rolex's craftsmanship and attention to detail, earning its place as a true horological icon.
While the Datejust may not possess the same overt glamour as some of its Rolex counterparts, its enduring appeal lies in its versatility and enduring style. Whether worn with a formal suit or a casual ensemble, the Datejust effortlessly transitions between occasions, making it the epitome of a truly versatile timepiece.
Despite its quieter reputation, the Datejust remains a cherished symbol of Rolex's unwavering commitment to precision, durability, and timeless elegance. In a world where trends come and go, the Datejust stands as a steadfast companion, embodying the enduring legacy of Rolex and the art of watchmaking itself.
 
The Birth of the Datejust
Let us delve into the fascinating history of the Datejust to provide some context, exploring the origins of this renowned timepiece.
The Rolex Datejust made its debut in 1945 as the reference 4467 "Big Bubble Back." Initially, it was only available in 18-karat yellow gold. A few years later, the models 5030 and 5031 entered the scene. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that the name "Datejust" began to grace the dial. In 1952, Rolex introduced the reference 6105/6305, also known as the "Ovettone" which was the first Datejust to ever produced in Stainless Steel. Building upon this success, Rolex unveiled the models 6604/6605 in 1955, solidifying the Datejust's growing presence.
During these formative years, the Datejust established itself as a pioneer in the realm of horology. Rolex's dedication to innovation and precision led to the introduction of groundbreaking features within the Datejust line. Notably, the Datejust was the first self-winding wristwatch to display the date in a window on the dial, an innovation that revolutionized the industry. This ingenious mechanism instantly set the Datejust apart from its contemporaries and solidified its status as an iconic timepiece.
As the Datejust evolved, so did its design and materials. Rolex expanded its offerings, introducing variations in case materials, such as stainless steel, two-tone combinations, and precious metals like white gold and Everose gold. These iterations brought an added level of versatility, appealing to a wider range of individuals who sought both elegance and durability in their timepieces.
From its humble beginnings to becoming a coveted symbol of timeless style, the Datejust has continued to captivate watch enthusiasts around the world. Its enduring popularity can be attributed not only to its innovative features and impeccable craftsmanship but also to its ability to adapt to changing times while maintaining its distinctive essence.
Stay tuned as we delve further into the legacy of the Datejust, exploring its iconic design elements, notable references, and the lasting impact it has had on the world of horology.
The Next Step Unveiled: The Datejust's Evolution in the Late 1950s
In the late 1950s, Rolex introduced the groundbreaking Caliber 1560 movement, igniting a new chapter in the esteemed 160x reference series. This pivotal moment marked the transformative journey that would shape the Datejust into the iconic timepiece we know today—one of the most classic and distinguishable watches of all time.
In this article, we delve into the references that define this remarkable series, with a specific focus on the highly coveted variants of the 1603, 1600, and 1601 references, which found their place in the illustrious Rolex catalog between 1959 and 1977. This era holds profound significance in Rolex's rich history as it encapsulates not only the rise of the Datejust but also the emergence of classic references from other iconic Rolex models.
Among these references, we encounter horological legends like the Submariner 1680 and 5513, the GMT Master 1675, the Explorer 1655, and the timeless Daytona 6263. Each of these models possesses a distinct design language, contributing to their historical importance and enduring allure. They are testaments to Rolex's mastery of craftsmanship and the indelible impact they have had on the world of horology.
In this comprehensive exploration, we will uncover the stories behind these collectible variants, exploring their unique features, notable nuances, and the cultural significance they hold. Join us on this captivating journey as we navigate the intricate tapestry of Rolex's legacy.
This era serves as a gateway to understanding Rolex's relentless pursuit of excellence, innovation, and timeless design. It is a period that showcases the fusion of artistry and engineering, resulting in timepieces that continue to captivate enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
Stay tuned as we embark on an in-depth examination of the references that define this era, shedding light on their enduring appeal and the pivotal role they played in shaping Rolex's enduring legacy. From groundbreaking movements to iconic designs, we will uncover the untold stories of these exceptional timepieces, celebrating their place in the annals of horological history.
Unveiling the Distinctions: Exploring the Datejust's Classic References
In this segment, we delve into the key differences among the variants found within the classic Datejust references mentioned earlier. We also shine a spotlight on some of the rare and lesser-known references within the series.
Rolex 1601 Fluted Bezel: Striking Elegance
This particular model boasts two primary variants: the Rolesor (gold/steel) model and the all-steel model, distinguished by its white gold fluted bezel. The 1601 reference, characterized by its eye-catching aesthetics on a Jubilee bracelet, is the most commonly encountered Datejust from this era. However, it's worth noting that this reference was also produced in full yellow gold and white gold, albeit in smaller quantities. The white gold 1601 variant stands as the rarest among all metals.
The allure of the 1601 lies not only in its luxurious composition but also in its timeless design language. The interplay between the steel case and the white gold fluted bezel creates a captivating visual contrast, elevating its elegance. Whether adorned with the iconic Jubilee bracelet or paired with a leather strap, the 1601 exudes an air of sophistication that resonates with discerning watch enthusiasts.
It is within these refined details that the true character of the Datejust shines through. As we explore the nuances of this reference and its rare variants, we uncover the essence of Rolex's dedication to craftsmanship, precision, and impeccable style.
Join us as we continue our journey into the world of the Datejust, unraveling the stories behind each variant, and discovering the hidden gems that make this iconic collection a testament to Rolex's enduring legacy.
Rolex 1603 Engine Turn Bezel
This reference only exists in stainless steel and is characterized by its steel bezel with a more utilitarian texture, resembling a gear. In my opinion, the steel bezel completely changes the essence of the watch as it leaves luxury behind and transforms the watch into a true tool.
Rolex 1600Â Smooth Bezel
The smooth bezel comes in two tones, stainless steel and solid gold models. These pieces are quietly rarer than the 1601 and 1603, but they are not impossible to find. The look of these watches is very clean and modern. In my opinion, these watches look great on Oyster bracelets as the design language matches perfectly with the smooth bezel. This reference easily accommodates black dials, one of the most difficult colors to find in the traditional Datejust line.
Now that we have finished describing the traditional references, let's talk about the rarest references.
Rolex 1602 Florentine Finish
A rare Rolex watch, this reference was produced in smaller quantities, and there is not much information available about it on the Internet because it is simply not very desirable yet. The watch features a so-called "florentine finish" on the bezel and sometimes even on the case and bracelet construction, known as the "brick" bracelet, and yes, it is a factory finish. The finish is exclusive to precious metal watches, although we only know of seeing this reference in yellow gold.
Rolex 1605 Piranha Bezel
The piranha bezel is called so because the triangular finish resembles the teeth of a piranha fish. This nickname was given by the collector and owner of Amsterdam Vintage Watches, Mr. Jasper Lijfering. Only two watches of this reference are known, both dating back to 1960. It could be that Rolex was experimenting with bezels and therefore only made a small batch of 1605 watches with experimental bezels. The stamped reference between the 12 o'clock position is 1605, although the inside of the caseback of these watches is engraved with 1601 with 1605 superimposed, which was something that happened in many interchangeable casebacks. This is the case with some military designation references, as seen in the Submariner 5517, which can be found with the sealed and scratched reference 5513 on the inside of the caseback.
Rolex 1607 Bark Finish
Appearing only in precious metal models and also found in Rolex Day-Date watches of the time, the model consists of a "bark" bezel, which appears to be handcrafted and has a texture that simulates tree bark. If the 1602 is not very popular, the 1607 is even less so, but again, we are talking about rarity, not markets. In my experience, these references in perfect condition are more collectible and desirable, even though the market is smaller. Unlike the Florentine model, which has a uniform finish on the case and bezel, these watches are distinguished only by the bezel and bracelet. These jubilee bracelets have a central part with a bark finish.
Rolex 1611 Punched Finish
Consisting of an apparently smooth bezel with a scoring technique on the bezel and the central part of the jubilee bracelet, similar to the bark-finished model, this watch is very rare and much more attractive than the bark finish. The punched bezel gives the piece a more refined look, and the texture on the bracelet is very subtle (the watch in the photograph features a bark finish bracelet).
Now that we have covered all the references to Rolex Datejust cases, let's talk about the variations in these models, starting with the rarest and most desired physical combinations.
Rolex 1601-1600 Pink Gold/Steel "Two-tone Pink Gold"
Everose is the name Rolex gives to its pink gold alloy, and yes, there is a two-tone Everose Vintage model which is charming and very warm. People sometimes don't appreciate how rare it is to find this configuration. The Rolex Datejust pink gold/steel is only found in references 1601 and 1600, just like the conventional two-tone models.
 
Rolex 1602 Florentine Finish Brick Bracelet
This watch is characterized by its beautiful Florentine finish brick bracelet, exclusive to precious metals. Finding these watches with the original bracelet in good condition is a great challenge. These bracelets are visually striking because we are accustomed to seeing Rolex watches exclusively on common bracelets such as the Oyster, Jubilee, and President.
Now let's talk about dial variations, which is the most interesting aspect of Rolex, as their cases tend to be very similar and the distinctions lie in small details. These variations can be so significant in their collectability that they can cause prices to skyrocket, as is the case with the Rolex Paul Newman Daytona. A conventional Rolex Daytona 6263 with a regular dial has a market price of $65,000.00 USD, while a watch of the same reference with a Paul Newman dial can be worth 10 times this amount. Of course, the Paul Newman has much more behind its value, but why couldn't the same happen with a Datejust?
That's why we believe collectors should pay more attention to dial variations in Datejust watches, as it's only a matter of time before truly rare pieces increase in their commercial value.
Â
The Zote dial variation, also known as the "Wide Boy"
appeared in most references of the Rolex Datejust during this period, primarily in the conventional references 1600, 1601, and 1603.
This dial variation is called the "Wide Boy" because of its wide rectangular hour markers and hands, which give the watch a visually appealing look. To make the name more appealing in Spanish, I decided to give it a new name in our language: "El Datejust Zote," which refers to the Mexican soap brand called Zote, as its silhouette is very similar to the indices of this watch.
When acquiring a Zote dial, it's essential to ensure that the hands are not replacements. These dials often appear with the denomination "Sigma," which means that below the 6 o'clock index, on the sides of the "t swiss t" engraving, the Sigma symbol (σ) appears. This ancient Greek symbol signifies the use of solid gold in the construction of the indices and hands. This is a significant detail, especially when it is found in the reference 1601, as it complements the gold bezel perfectly. Zote dials can be found with or without luminescent material, with Tritium being the most common. Collectors prefer dials without Tritium as it enhances the distinctive construction.
Regarding the color of these dials, they can be found in various options, including basic metallic gray, champagne, matte black, and the rarer dark gray, blue, lacquered black, and linen finish. We will discuss these last two variations later on.
The Buckley dial, also known as the "John Buckley"
features painted Roman numerals without overlaid indices. The Buckley dial got its name from a watch dealer named John Buckley, who worked at 47th Avenue Diamond District in New York. He speculated on the future collectability of these dials and started accumulating them, eventually giving his own surname to the watch.
The typography of the Roman numerals on the Buckley dial is very similar to that of Cartier watches, which is highly distinctive. When acquiring a Buckley Datejust, it is essential to pay attention to the luminescent dots on the dial. If any are missing or in poor condition, it will be much more noticeable than on a regular dial since, as mentioned earlier, these dials do not have overlaid indices. Another crucial point to consider is the hands of the watch. Dials with black Roman numerals strictly have black hands in steel models, which is probably the most distinctive feature of these watches. In the case of Buckley dials with white Roman numerals, the watches may have conventional hands or, in some cases, the extremely rare white hands.
These watches are available in a wide range of colors. In steel models, we have the basic white dial with black Roman numerals, dark gray dial with black Roman numerals, light gray dial with white Roman numerals, blue dial with white Roman numerals, and black dial with white Roman numerals. In two-tone and gold models, we have some of the aforementioned variations plus the champagne dial with black Roman numerals, blue dial with gold Roman numerals, and black dial with gold Roman numerals. The rarest of them all is the black Buckley dial with white Roman numerals and white hands.
Â
The Linen dial
As its name suggests, features a textured finish that resembles the texture of linen fabric. These dials have a special shine under the sun as they reflect light in a unique way each time.
Linen dials can be found in different references and metals, although they are more commonly found in watches produced after the classic references. For example, the reference 16014, which replaced the ref. 1601 in the late 1970s, often features Linen dials. These dials come in various colors, including metallic gray, dark gray, champagne, and blue. The most common variation is the metallic gray Linen dial, while the blue version is the rarest. There are also some Linen dials with Zote "Wide Boy" indices, which are extremely rare to come across.
 
The Gilt Lacquered DialÂ
These dials are commonly found in older Datejust models, such as the ref. 6605. Rolex used this type of finish on their Submariner and GMT Master watches in the 1950s, but by the mid-1960s, they discontinued its use in all models. Some say that this type of dial aged more easily. I have noted that the better preserved the dial is, the clearer the color of the text, which can be observed in the ref. 5512 Rolex.
Another factor that may have led to the decline of Gilt dials in the market was the cost of production, as it involved a more labor-intensive process. The Lacquered dial is one of the rarest variations ever produced in Rolex Datejust watches from this era. These dials are highly susceptible to changing their tonality to a "tropical dial" shade of brown, and their finish is exceptional, distinct from conventional dials. They possess a unique shine and a mirror-like finish on the text, which is unmistakable when the dial is in good condition.
In steel models, these dials are so rare that they fall within a serial number range of 1.1xxxxx to 1.6xxxxx and were produced for a very short period between 1964 and 1967. The rarest Lacquered dials feature the letters "T" (indicating tritium) beneath the 6 o'clock index, slightly spaced farther apart from the "t swiss t" inscription. There are three versions of indices: the normal indices, the "door stop" indices, and the coffin indices, which are unique in their construction. Examples from 1964-1965 feature Dauphine hands and the caliber 1560, while post-1965 examples have the caliber 1570 and conventional hands.
Â
