55 Rolex Exceptional and Special, Datejust, Automatic Wristwatch in Steel, With Custom Mickey Mouse Dial, Reference 1603
Estimate: €3,000 – 6,000
Sold (Premium)€7,150
Model: Datejust
Reference: 1603
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Year: 1977
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 1575
Case N°: 5212122
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
For decades, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust has always been the modern archetype of the classic men’s wristwatch. The present example of Rolex Datejust is a reference 1603, cased in stainless steel and completed by jubilee bracelet. The tonneau-shaped water-resistant case is a delight with its fluted bezel, screw down crown and back and has been preserved nicely. The most peculiar feature of the present lot is surely its dial picturing one of the most iconic characters: Mickey Mouse. It was very typical in the ’70s among jewelers customize Rolex with Disney characters and, of course, Mickey Mouse was one of the most popular. With its red shirt, yellow shoes and smiley face, when these types of dial were launched were deemed unorthodox and were not as highly praised as they are today, making these fun timepieces even more collectable. Combining two icons of industry—Rolex and Mickey Mouse—this oyster perpetual ref. 1603 sports Mickey on the dial striking a jovial pose.