Rolex Datejust 36mm - Ref. 1601

For sale is a vintage 1961 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601, an early example crafted in solid 14k yellow gold, featuring a champagne pie-pan dial and presented on a dark brown leather strap.

The Dial
The champagne sunburst dial has a warm golden tone, with fine speckling and light signs of age across its surface. Its pie-pan profile creates a subtle step down to the outer minute track, giving the dial depth and definition.

The applied baton hour markers are particularly attractive, with broad faces and sharply angled ends that catch the light individually. Their substantial shape gives the simple layout a stronger presence, complemented by the applied Rolex coronet at 12 o’clock.

The pointed dauphine hands are another defining detail. Their faceted shape brings an elegance to the dial, while the darker patina along their surfaces contrasts with the champagne background. Small lume plots around the edge have aged to a soft beige, completing the period appearance.

The Case
The classic 36mm case is crafted in solid 14k yellow gold and framed by the traditional fluted bezel. Its gently tapering lugs and raised crystal give it the familiar vintage Datejust proportions, with the warm yellow gold closely complementing the champagne dial.

The Movement
The watch is powered by a Rolex automatic mechanical movement, winding through the natural motion of the wrist and providing central hours, minutes, seconds and a date display at 3 o’clock. The date is magnified by the Cyclops lens above it.

The Strap & Buckle
The watch is fitted with a generic dark brown leather strap with contrasting cream stitching and a generic gold-coloured pin buckle. Both are aftermarket components rather than original Rolex accessories.

The dark brown leather pairs naturally with the yellow gold case, drawing attention to the dial and its distinctive combination of broad baton markers and dauphine hands.

Included with the watch:
Original Box: Yes
Original Papers: No

Technical Data:
Model: Datejust Ref. 1601
Year: 1961
Case material: 14k Yellow Gold
Case diameter: 36mm
Bracelet: Leather Strap
Dial: Champagne Pie-Pan
Crystal: Acrylic