THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 1603
YEAR: 1973
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 unchanged 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.

Offered here is a mid-run example of the reference 1603, featuring a “wide boy” sigma-signed pie-pan dial. The “wide boy” nickname refers to the unusually broad baton markers on the dial and the matching wider hands. The sigma symbols on either side of the T SWISS T indicate that the dial markers are made of precious metal—in this case, white gold.

This watch has been preserved in exceptional condition. The dial is near flawless, free from blemishes or visible marks, with all lume plots intact. The hands also retain their full tritium lume. The case remains unpolished, showing only the expected light wear from age. It is fitted with the correct 6251/55 fully linked folded Jubilee bracelet, stamped 1/72, which is in excellent condition and will accommodate a 20 cm wrist.

The movement was serviced during the previous owner’s possession and is running strongly at +3 seconds per day, with 265 amplitude and a beat error of 0.4 ms.