Rolex first introduced their now iconic Datejust in 1945 as a way to commemorate their 40th anniversary. The Datejust in and of itself was revolutionary, as it marked the first time a mechanical wristwatch featured a date complication. The new innovation was then encased in Rolex patented oystercase. This marked the production of the first waterproof wristwatch case that was made at scale. The Rolex Datejust remained largely unchanged for the better part of 6 decades. Over that time period, the Datejust saw variations in both bezel and dial designs. The dial variations included sunburst, tapestry, Buckley, pie pan, sigma and linen. ABOUT THIS WATCH: MANUFACTURER: Rolex MODEL: Datejust REFERENCE: 1601-3 SERIAL: 213xxxx YEAR: 1969 DIAL: The original pie-pan linen dial is in great shape. The dial remains free of any staining, patina, blemishes or otherwise imperfections save for some very minor staining between the 11 and 12 o'clock hour markers. The dial sports stick hour indices and baton hands. CASE: The previously polished 36mm steel case is in good shape. The lugs continue to retain some of the brushed finishing on the anterior portion all 4 lugs. The case presents with wear commensurate with 54 year old watch. The engine turned bezel is also in good shape with light wear. MOVEMENT: Rolex automatic self winding caliber 1570. 25 Jewels, 19800 frequency, 48h power reserve. Service history is unknown. The watch winds, sets and runs and is currently keeping good time. The watch was timed over a 24hr period. The 24hrs included periods of wear and non-wear. Over those 24hrs the watch gained 5 seconds. BRACELET: Comes on a folded link jubilee bracelet. The clasp is from 1991 and is an authentic Rolex service clasp. It opens up a little stiff but otherwise operates normally. ACCESSORIES: None. BOX/PAPERS: No. BANK WIRE PRICE: $3,599 shipped on jubilee. $3,300 shipped on strap. Buy/Sell reviews on OF: https://omegaforums.net/threads/niko-is-the-man.152687/#post-2080293 https://omegaforums.net/threads/another-flawless-transaction-with-thegreekphysique.146947/ https://omegaforums.net/threads/thegreekphysique-recommended-seller.144753/ https://omegaforums.net/threads/excellent-transaction-with-thegreekphysique.144355/ https://omegaforums.net/threads/thegreekphysique-is-a-great-member.143998/ https://omegaforums.net/threads/perfect-sale-to-thegreekphysique.143903/ https://omegaforums.net/threads/smooth-sale-with-thegreekphysique.94278/
That's a super nice example of an iconic model. Special original dial not often seen. Matching bracelet in great shape too. Hard to find a 60's example like this as most have been swapped around during services and repairs. Machined bezel is nice and sharp too!
Nice, Niko. I just want to clarify for those questioning the bracelet as Niko and I discussed this privately. I have little to no doubt the folded link jubilee with 55 endlinks is the correct bracelet for this watch. The ‘91 “S” stamped clasp is clearly a factory service clasp- which was common for a Rolex repair center to replace rather than repair if there was play or wear on the original clasp. Because of the service clasp, Niko is basically giving the bracelet away with the watch. If this had the correct date stamp on the clasp, it would be worth far more. ‘69 clasps come up often on eBay- it would be easy enough to get the correct year and make it whole again if someone wanted.
Bonus: Niko won't make you establish a relationship, get on a waiting list, and buy three other watches that you don't want so that you can get this one.
Clearly a good deal here for such a nice, classic and easy to wear Rolex ! This should not last long.