Rolex
1974 Rolex Two-Tone Datejust (Ref. 1601) Champagne "Wide Boy" 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 fantastic starting point for a new vintage collector and is always a great addition to an expanding collection.
Worn effortlessly in any setting, the Rolex Datejust remains a cornerstone of classic watch design. Early examples are particularly admired for their balance of simplicity and understated sophistication, qualities that are fully realized in the present 1974 ref. 1601.
Fitted with a striking champagne “Wide Boy” dial, this example stands apart through its distinctive design details. The applied hour markers and hands feature a broader, more substantial profile compared to the standard stick markers and baton hands seen on most Datejust models of the period, lending the watch a bold yet refined presence on the wrist.
SPECS
| Stock # | RLXTTDJ1601-74/2 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Datejust | |
| Model | 1601 | |
| Serial | 35XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel / 14K Yellow Gold | |
| Dial | Champagne "Wide Boy" | |
| Millimeters | 36 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 62523H 14 Jubilee Bracelet W/ 455 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The excellent case features full and even lugs that show light evidence of being polished in the past and honest wear from use. The 14K yellow gold fluted bezel retains crisp edges and shows signs of previous use, but no notable dings or scratches. The Rolex 62523H 14 two-tone Jubilee bracelet with 455 end pieces was sourced with the watch and is believed to be original. The bracelet retains 18 links that exhibit stretch from wear and will fit up to a 7.5-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The original and stunning "pie-pan" champagne sunburst "Wide Boy" dial is in near-perfect condition, featuring only a subtle tonal blemish between the 1 and 2 o'clock marker, which is practically invisible to the naked eye. The tritium lume plots have taken on a wonderful golden patina with no degradation present under UV light inspection. The original tritium "wide boy" hands match the dial perfectly with no degradation present when inspected under UV light. The metallic date wheel is original with "open" 6's and 9's.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.