THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 1603
YEAR: 1974
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 Datejust was a Rolex staple for over twenty years, eventually retired in 1981. These watches remained relatively unchanged bar a few tweaks to the movement and dials. Now, over six decades after their original release, their timeless and elegant designs, are getting the appreciation they deserve.

The 1603 reference was only made with steel, engine-turned bezels, which for us is the most classic Datejust look and truly a watch for any occasion (bar diving and spacewalking of course!) The engine-turned bezels reflect the light less than fluted ones, thus giving it a more casual look.

This example has a wonderful sunburst grey pie pan dial with some tropicalisation starting to occur around the date wheel, the edge of the dial, and some markers. The hands have their original lume and show some oxidisation on the chrome finish. The case remains even and full with no pin poke. The original (A-stamped 76) 62510 jubilee bracelet is still present and in great condition. It can accommodate a 19cm wrist. 

The movement has been serviced within the last six months and is running well at +5 s/d, 250 amps with a beat error of 0.4 ms.  

These 4-digit Datejusts offer such value in comparison to the modern equivalents. The slimmer cases wear so much better the current rotund offerings.