THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 1603
YEAR: 1971
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 36mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

First introduced in 1959, the 16xx range of Datejusts was a Rolex staple for over twenty years, before being retired in 1981. While the overall design of these watches remained relatively consistent throughout its lifespan, Rolex introduced numerous variations with different dials and subtle design tweaks, giving each piece its own character and making them highly enjoyable to collect.

Presented here is the most sought-after dial variant within the steel 1600 range: the “ghost” dial. It doesn’t take a genius to see why this nickname stuck—the text on the dial seems to vanish as soon as light hits it. Contrary to popular belief, these dials did in fact leave the factory this way. Whereas most dials from the period feature a radial brushed finish that reflects the light, the ghost dial has a matte surface with white printing, resulting in its striking disappearing effect. These dials were always uncommon—likely due to their lack of legibility—but today they are among the most desirable, particularly when found in condition such as this.

This example has been preserved in superb condition. The dial is near perfect, with only minor text fading on the word “Oyster.” All lume plots are intact on both the hands and dial. The case has been polished at some point but remains thick and even. It is fitted with a 62510/555 Jubilee bracelet stamped VE (1980), which is in excellent condition and will accommodate a 19.5 cm wrist.

The movement is performing well, running at –2 seconds per day, with 255 amplitude and a beat error of 0.2 ms.