1974 ROLEX Datejust 36 Watch Ref. 1601 Oyster Perpetual Two-Tone Case & Jubilee Bracelet - IN BOX!

ROLEX Oyster Perpetual

 

The Oyster was Rolex’s first waterproof watch case, revolutionizing watchmaking with its durability and sealed construction. "Perpetual" refers to the self-winding rotor, which powers the movement continuously with the wearer's motion, eliminating the need for manual winding.

 

In 1926, Rolex introduced the original Oyster watch, the world’s first waterproof wristwatch. The name "Oyster" was inspired by the way an oyster shell remains tightly sealed to protect its interior—just as Rolex designed the Oyster case to keep water and dust out.

 

In 1931, Rolex patented a self-winding movement that used a rotor to wind the watch as it was worn. This innovation led to the addition of the word "Perpetual", signifying the movement’s ability to wind itself continuously.

 

By 1945, the name Oyster Perpetual emerged, marking the combination of Rolex’s robust waterproof case with its revolutionary self-winding movement—a foundation that continues to define Rolex watches today.

 

ROLEX Datejust – A Milestone in Watchmaking History

 

Introduced in 1945, the Rolex Datejust remains a timeless symbol of classic elegance. It was the first self-winding, waterproof, chronometer wristwatch to feature a date display at the 3 o’clock position. This innovation was further enhanced in 1953 with the introduction of the Cyclops lens, which magnifies the date for improved legibility.

 

As Rolex describes it, “The Datejust offers comfort as well as legibility and daily time management. Useful and practical, it was soon established as a precious instrument for the modern, independent, active wearer.”

 

 

ROLEX Datejust

Oyster Perpetual

Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified

Ref. 1601 Two-Tone

Jubilee Bracelet

 

The Rolex Datejust was long considered the flagship model of the Rolex collection, representing the brand’s commitment to innovation, precision, and timeless elegance. As the first self-winding, waterproof chronometer wristwatch to feature an automatically changing date window (introduced in 1945), the Datejust set a new standard for everyday luxury and practicality.

 

From the Rolex Datejust collection, always a wearable model, blending the lines between a sports watch and a dress watch, today we are excited to present one of Rolex’s most iconic and enduring models: the Rolex Datejust.  

 

Introduced in 1959, this is a vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust wristwatch, reference 1601, with serial number 3604693, dating this timepiece to 1974. A true classic, this 1601 embodies Rolex’s signature design elements, including the Cyclops lens, the fluted bezel, and the Jubilee bracelet—all of which have become enduring archetypes in watchmaking.

 

This automatic Rolex Datejust watch is powered by the Rolex movement caliber 1575 (signed 1570), featuring 26 jewels, a sweep second hand, date complication, and is adjusted in 5 positions + temperature for superior accuracy. This Swiss-made movement ensures reliability and precision. The movement is also identified by its serial number D485908.

 

Rolex Datejust reference 1601 debuted with a then-brand-new movement caliber 1565, produced by Aegler, and featured a 42-hour power reserve running at a frequency of 18,000vph. Characteristically, there was no quickset mechanism for the date just yet. The new caliber did feature KIF shock absorption.

 

Caliber 1575 would follow in 1965. The new version had a higher 19,800vph beat rate. In 1972, a hacking function (allowing the seconds hand to stop when setting the time) was added without changing the caliber’s name. Still, there was no quickset date. This would come in 1977, with the introduction of the 16xxx references, the first so-called five-digit Datejust.

 

Interestingly, it is quite common for Datejust calibers to be marked “1560” or “1570.” Technically, these numbers refer to non-date versions of the calibers. Rolex, However, often used the same number-engraved plates across the entire movement family.

 

The white dial of this Rolex Datejust reference 1601 is adorned with gold baton hour markers, paired with gold-luminous matching hands. The dial also features an outer minute/second track. At the 3 o’clock position, you'll find the date window, magnified by the signature Cyclops lens. The dial is signed with Rolex branding, including the iconic logo, “Oyster Perpetual Datejust”, and “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified”, further emphasizing the watch's precision and craftsmanship.

 

Cased in a 36mm two-tone stainless-steel case, featuring the unique and perfect combination of the yellow gold fluted bezel and the Rolex signature waterproof screw-down gold crown. Also, this watch is mounted on the classic Jubilee bracelet and comes with its original Rolex display box.

 

The special Jubilee bracelet was designed to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Rolex. Featuring rows of five metal links, it is known for its fluid contours and elegant clasp, which bring further distinction to the model.

 

This Rolex Datejust reference 1601 is in good condition, showing light wear consistent with its age. It runs smoothly and keeps excellent time, making it not only a collector's piece but also a reliable companion for daily wear.

 

Thank you for viewing! Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or reasonable offers.

 

 

Movement:	Case Back Markings:	Measurements (mm):
Montres Rolex S.A. Geneva Swiss Twenty Six 26 Jewels Adjusted 5 Positions and Temperature 1570 D485908	Montres Rolex S.A. Geneva Switzerland Patented Stainless Steel 1601 3604693	Case Diameter 36    Case Diameter w/Crown 39 Case Lug to Lug 44.3 Case Thickness 12 Lug Width 20 Band Width 20

 

 

We prefer to take photographs outdoors when the weather allows. However, when shooting indoors, please note that we use lightboxes equipped with 360 LED bulbs, which can magnify any flaws that may be less noticeable to the naked eye. That said, we never use Photoshop to alter our images or remove blemishes. While we may adjust the lighting as needed, what you see is what you get, and we take pride in that.

The condition is pre-owned.  
The item may show some signs of cosmetic wear, but it is fully operational, and functions as intended.
Please take a moment to review the photos, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have. 

 

The item will be carefully packed for shipment.

 

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Thank you for looking! 

 

Thank you for your business! We look forward to seeing you again in the future!

 

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