228 Rolex Exceptional and Special, Datejust, Automatic Wristwatch in White Gold, Black Grenè Dial, White Gold Jubilee Bracelet, With Certificates, Reference 1601

Estimate: €30,000 –⁠ 60,000

Model: Datejust
Reference: 1601
Case Material: White Gold
Bracelet Material: White Gold
Year: 1964
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 1560
Case N°: 1 053 979
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Bullettin de Marche and Warranty

Introduced at the end of the Second World War in 1945, the Rolex Datejust commemorated the 40th anniversary of the storied brand. Perhaps one of the most iconic watches not only to the brand, but to the world, the Datejust is one of the longest, most continuously produced models. The timepiece was able to rise above its competitors because of its ability, as its name suggests, to instantaneously change the date, just right at midnight. Other timepieces had a slow rollover date which began at 10 o’clock at night and completed its cycle around 2 o’clock in the morning. Over its 75 years of production, the Datejust has come in a plethora of dial colors, case sizes, bezel types, case metals, and attachment styles, making the timepiece have a wide array of options to choose from. The Datejust ref. 1601 was first released in the late 1950s featuring a 36 mm diameter case and equipped with cal. 1560. While it was released with examples in stainless steel and gold, a wide array of dial variations were made available. The present Rolex Datejust ref. 1601 from circa 1964 belongs to a rare version cased in white gold fitted with a desirable black dial showing a charming tropicalization that has spread all over the surface. Offered in attractive overall condition boasting a nice dial with excellent luster and a super-cool white-gold jubilee bracelet, the present example is a handsome example of an iconic vintage Datejust.