Rolex

1973 Rolex Datejust (Ref. 1601) Grey Sigma "Ghost" Dial

The Rolex Datejust is one of the most iconic and most beloved Rolex watches ever made. Launched in 1945, it has remained a timeless classic, instantly recognizable as an item of advanced quality and functional design. The Datejust’s exemplary style makes it an extremely versatile choice, worn just as easily with a suit as with jeans and a t-shirt. The Datejust would make a wonderful starting point for a new vintage collector and is always a great addition to an expanding collection.

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A Sigma dial is a Rolex dial named for the letters printed at the bottom of the dial at the 6 o'clock position. Most Rolex dials are commonly marked with “T Swiss T,” under the 6 o'clock marker, however, a Sigma dial is marked “σ T SWISS T σ.” This signifies the use of gold components within the dial.

The "Ghost Dial" Datejust's are one of the most sought-after dial variants in the 16XX series of Rolex Datejusts. The grey dial with white text has received the nickname "Ghost Dial" as the white text printed on the dial in certain light blends into the medium grey finish. The "Ghost Dial" dial is a medium grey and not to be mistaken with the more commonly seen dark grey dial that has a more metallic-like look making this dial variant not only rare but highly sought-after by the vintage Rolex collector community.

SPECS

Stock # RLXDJ1601-73/2
Brand Rolex
Style Datejust
Model 1601
Serial 34XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Grey Sigma "Ghost"
Millimeters 36
Bracelet Rolex 6251H Jubilee Bracelet W/ 55 End Pieces

CASE & BRACELET

The wonderful case shows light signs of being polished and shows honest signs of use while retaining very full and symmetrical lugs. The white gold fluted bezel is in excellent condition, remaining unpolished with light signs of previous use. The Rolex 6251H "rolled-link" Jubilee bracelet with 55 end pieces retains 22 links and exhibits normal stretch for the style and age of the bracelet.

DIAL & HANDS

 The grey "pie pan" sigma "ghost" dial is in excellent condition, showing some small marks on the dial that are only visible with a loupe and some minor aging to 6 and 9 o'clock markers. The tritium lume plots all remain intact, under U.V. light inspection some of the lume plots display light degradation and have aged to a charming creamy yellow coloration. The original tritium hands have aged darker than the dial and show no degradation under U.V. light inspection. The metallic date wheel is original with open 6's and 9's, except for the "26".  

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is running and keeping time, previous service history is unknown.

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