opinions on 1603 oyster

Hi all
I have never owned a rolex, but I am starting to really like the look of the 1603s and 1605s. Can I get some views on this one

http://omegaforums.net/threads/rolex-1603-oyster-datejust-automatic-mans-watch-1970s.14057/
Im not sure what to be looking for, etc. Happy to be directed to appropriate desmond-like websites!

Thanks for that, kyle. Have you dealt with cf-ken?
Or if you know of anyone who is thinking of parting with theirs 😉

Do you know what the 'R' is in this one? The reference number says 1603R - I couldn't find much on this. An old Ebay listing said it meant that the dial was replaced during a service from Rolex but I'm not sure.

Also, everything I've read on looking at Rolex say that everything on a Rolex should be "perfect" including the serial and reference numbers between the lugs. However, on a lot of 1601 and 1603's that I've seen, the writing for the serial and reference do not seem as crisp. I.e. some I've seen has sloppier lettering, etc.

Did Rolex not put as much care into those items on the older models (since you can't see them) or are this a red flag?

Thanks!

I worked on a buy side trading desk and guys were always selling these for one of two reasons:

a. Pay their rent, or

3. Trade up to a President or gold sub

so, I think I sorta know a lot about datejusts. i had no idea what a "chronometer" was until I purchased a Ulysee Nardin World Timer. By that point I already had a PP and like 6 used Rolex's. That's how lame a lot of rolex people are. I never knew chronometer was printed on the dial and I couldn't care less. Didn't even know what it meant. Frankly, I'm still not sure I know what it really means.

I've learned so much about watches from this message board - thanks everyone!

Rolex is different than other watches with respect to the fact that bracelets are as generally as important as the watch. Also, rolex collectors are picky regarding box and papers and stupid hang tags. Rolex is a status symbol for a lot of people so self delusion comes with the brand. This is just my humble opinion but I have enough experience with rolex to be able to comfortably make sweeping generalizations about rolex people, myself included.

they don't make a lot of rap songs about Universal Geneve.


Anyway, that 1603 ^^ is priced pretty right for no bracelet or box. gotta figure that's a $75 strap, minimum. Rolex always replaces the crown (and crown tube) with service. I only mention it because the crown looks brand new. If the watch you're looking at had the original bracelet, box and green papers it would sell for $2800/$2900 with a quickness.

You know until recently, I had never seen a Rolex re-dial on a date just. The oyster case and screw down crown keeps dials mint and that's a fact.

the below datejust was my second rolex. That watch went swimming with me in the Atlantic ocean probably 25 or 30 times, maybe more like 50. I was drunk a lot that summer.

I always install a high domed crystal on datejusts because it looks /hot/ paris hilton.

It was collateral for a $500 loan in 1991 from a kid at my job who quit to go off to grad school and never showed up to get his watch back. He told me his pops gave it to him as a graduation gift…lol Kids suck. Anyway, I don't think they were worth much more than $500 back then.View attachment 61735

I don't want to step on any shoes or kill any deal you have worked out with this cf ken guy, but... if things don't work out I'll introduce you to my friend Steve. He's got about 40 or 50 datejusts and I'm sure he'll have just what you want. Mostly because he has all of them hahaha

Steve and my dad worked together as transit cops and Steve went on to become one of the biggest used watch dealers in NYS. Not exactly a predictable job path...

JMHO - if I were buying my first Rolex, I would buy an Air-King Rolesor (5506, I believe is the reference). Rare for Rolex (it's important to recognize that rare for Rolex means 5,000 units produced versus 500,0000) and it's got one of the best movements ever made. You can pick up a pretty nice one for $1500 - $1900. I'd be surprised if this watch wasn't a 2 or 3 bagger over the next 7 to 10 years.

Sorry for getting off track - I'll also attach a nice 1601 which can be had for like $1875ish

I like that 1601. No deal worked out. In fact havent even made contact. Im morein the learning stage. The knurled bezel really grabs me.does your mate have a website, or photobucket I can admire?

If you have never owned a 1603...then you are in for a surprise.

They are incredibly rugged, & tough, but nevertheless very elegant watches, encapsulating, some of the very best traits that Rolex has to offer, in terms of cosmetic longevity, & consistent functionality.

http://www.oysterworld.de/index.html - German Rolex website, in English too, is a good starting point for research.

I sold this 1982 version, from the Rolex part of my collection last year, with a Jubilee bracelet. - Still perfectly watertight.

Sorry learning, what's the difference between 1601, 1603, 1605? My eyes can't spot anything.

I believe the difference between the 1601 and 1603 is that the 1603 has stainless steel machined bezel and the 1601 can have a white or yellow gold bezel (with SS or two tone bracelet) or a solid head and bracelet.

I think the 1605 is a Date reference but I'm not totally sure on that one.

Thanks all. I am looking at one that doesn't come with a jubilee bracelet. Are there good quality after-market (non rolex) ones out there? What sort of price? Recommendations?
Thanks

There are so many nice ones out there that I'd find one with a jubilee, and preferably one without much stretch.

1605 I've never heard of. 1500/1501 is the Date reference. The Date and Air King (ref. 5500) are slightly smaller, 34-35mm rather than 36mm, and have 19 rather than 20mm between the lugs. The Datejust is appreciably larger on the wrist. The AK doesn't have a chronometer-rated movement but can usually be regulated closely. By the way we're talking acrylic crystals and slow set dates, cal 1570 (really 1575) for the Date & Datejust. The ones from the early'80s on had different quickset movements (3035 I think), no pie pan dial, and more than 4 digits in the reference numbers. The transitional models had plexi crystals, but by the late '80s had sapphire.

anyone know what the R means?

Hey - would be interested to connect with your friend Steve re: Datejusts, looking for the same thing! Thanks!