Rolex Datejust Linen Dial

The linchpin of Rolex's collection since the mid-1940s, the Datejust--sturdy, stalwart, dependable--has never elicited as much passion as some of the manufacture's sports models. Unlike the Submariner, a Datejust has never appeared on the wrist of James Bond, nor has it ever been military issue (although the Thunderbird, its sporty cousin, was presented to the Thunderbird air squadron of the U.S. Air Force). And no one ever scaled Mount Everest or plunged to the deepest depths of the ocean wearing one.

But over the decades there has perhaps been more variation in style, color, and texture to the Datejust's dials than any other watch made by Rolex, making it Rolex's most versatile watch. 

Rolex has always experimented with the Datejust. It's been in stainless steel, yellow gold (as with that first Reference of Datejust in 1945), white gold, or steel-and-gold (a combination which Rolex patented as Rolesor). And as far as the dials are concerned, they came in a veritable kaleidoscope of colors.

This variety of color is due to the fact that Rolex has utilized dials produced by many different manufacturers. Over the years, Beyeler, Stern, and Singer (who was responsible for the legendary Daytona worn by Paul Newman) have produced dials for Rolex. Since each manufacturer had its own particular style of dial, each Rolex has its own character and distinctive look.

Perhaps the most visually-arresting of all are the textured dials, with special preference for the linen dial featured here.

There's just something about the subtle texture and silky tone of a linen dial that just does it for us. Any kind of fine finishing such as that found on a textured dial (whether linen or honeycomb) telegraphs an appreciation for the old days, when it was done by hand. But the way a linen dial catches the light is nothing short of stunning.

This particular Datejust is a Reference 1601 circa 1972. The gorgeous texture of the linen dial is set off by the engine-turned steel bezel (most likely a service replacement). For a solid, every day watch with a distinctive flair, we can think of no better fit.

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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.