Rolex Datejust

Why We Love It

There are certain watch designs that have become, for lack of a better word, timeless.

The Rolex Datejust, introduced in 1945, has been worn by presidents and luminaries, and there's a good reason why. Its beauty and elegance is regarded as a horological classic, its relentless timekeeping unparalleled, and its versatility makes it at home in both casual and luxury environments. 

Vintage Datejusts may not be the most difficult Rolex model to locate, but it is becoming more and more difficult to find examples that are not over-polished AND that have untouched dials.

This particular example is a Datejust Reference1601-3, which denotes a modification at the factory level from a 1601 spec to a 1603 spec model. The case, originally engraved 1601, was modified with a -3 to indicate the addition of an engine turned steel bezel, in place of the 18k white gold fluted bezel generally found on 1601s. This is an unusual but well documented modification commonly performed at the time. 

Featuring a crisp case, a lightly patinated non-luminous dial, de-lumed hands and a folded link Jubilee bracelet, this stunning timepiece is not only a classic, but an interesting footnote in Rolex production history.

Definitely one for the budding collector!

The Story

We've said it over and over again - the Datejust may just be the perfect watch.

Coupling perfect proportions, simple dial layouts, and robust movements, Rolex's most prolific model is an icon of timekeeping that has been in continuous production for decades. Moreover, the Datejust is all the watch that just about any of us really need. 

The beauty of the Datejust is that it is the ultimate do-anything, go-anywhere watch. Equal parts sporty and dressy, the Datejust wears just as well with jeans as it does with a suit, and thanks to the signature Oyster case and tough-as-nails movement, it’s ready for anything that you can throw at it.

In production continuously since 1945, the original Datejust was the world's first wristwatch to incorporate a date disc and aperture at the 3:00 position. The cyclops magnifier over the date window was introduced in 1954, and as we all know has became a signature Rolex design cue.   

Since then, date windows at 3:00 have become commonplace, and the Rolex cyclops magnifier bubble has become a hallmark of the brand. Datejusts have proudly been worn by presidents, athletes and movie stars (and probably your grandfather), in a testament to how timeless and versatile the watch truly is.

Where so many watches can be a little too big here, or a little too small there, the Datejust is just right, embracing the wrist with its thin and tapering 36mm case. And while recent horological trends have favored large wristwatches, the age of the giant watch is behind us (thankfully), making more reasonably sized watches, like the original Datejust, a pleasantly stylish option that fits the bill.

There's a magic to the Datejust's simple design, a timelessness that speaks to how true style never dies. 

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.