1977 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 in Steel – “Silver Sigma” Dial

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This Rolex Datejust reference 1601 produced in 1977 (serial number 517xxxx) features a sought-after dial: the silver “pie-pan” variant, here further displaying two "σ" symbols (the lowercase Greek letter Sigma) on either side of the "T SWISS T" marking at 6 o'clock, indicating that the markers and hands are made of white gold.
The 36 mm steel case, with its characteristic fluted bezel in white gold, houses the Rolex automatic caliber 1575, a robust, reliable, and precise movement, chronometer-certified by the COSC.
The example we have the pleasure to offer is distinguished by the superb uniform patina of the luminescent material (tritium base) of the indexes and hands – a sought-after natural evolution which gives the dial a unique depth and warmth, thanks to the contrast with the light grey of its background.
The comfortable and durable Jubilee bracelet reference 62510H with folded links and 555 end pieces harmoniously completes the watch.
This Datejust with Silver Sigma dial is preserved in superb overall condition and has undergone a complete overhaul by a watchmaker specializing in vintage calibers.

Detailed description

Vintage watch enthusiasts will sometimes notice the presence of the symbol "σ" (the lowercase Greek letter Sigma) on the dials of prestigious brands, such as Rolex and Patek Philippe. Introduced in the early 1970s, this symbol is used to indicate that the hour markers, and often also the hands, are made of gold. This specification was encouraged by the Association pour la Promotion Industrielle de l'Or (APRIOR) in order to promote Swiss watches in the face of international competition and to highlight the superior quality of the components used. The presence of Sigma symbols is mainly observed near the "T SWISS T" inscription at the bottom of the dial. Since not all dials equipped with precious metal decorations bear this symbol, its presence makes models marked with it particularly attractive to collectors.

Condition

This Datejust reference 1601 is preserved in superb overall condition.
The demarcations between the matte satin/brushed and glossy/mirror-polished surfaces are clear. The case retains very nice proportions. The winding crown is in very good condition. The case back is in excellent condition. The fluted white gold bezel is well defined.
The silver dial is magnificent. The luminescent material on the indexes and hands has developed a superb patina, homogeneous and warm. All the dots at the tip of the markers are present, whole and round. The date disc is original and thus presents the correct open 6s and 9s.
The Rolex Jubilee folded links bracelet in steel, reference 62510H, end links 555, clasp code DE7 (production in July 2001) is in excellent condition, with no stretch.
The movement that powers our Datejust, a self-winding mechanical Rolex caliber 1575, has recently undergone a complete overhaul by a watchmaker specializing in vintage models, and operates to the strictest tolerances.
A superb example!

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Specifications

General characteristics

Object ID : FEXJ
Brand: Rolex
Model: Datejust
Reference : 1601
Year: Produced in 1977
Gender: Men's watch / Unisex
Delivered with: Amplitude° Steel Warranty Card
Crystal type:
Plexiglass
Dial color:
Silver
Dial markers: No numerals

Case

Case material: Stainless Steel
Case shape:
Round
Case back: Full, screw-back
Bezel material: White Gold
Dimensions/Diameter: 36mm

Movement

Type: Automatic
Caliber: Rolex 1575
Frequency: 19,800 vph (2.75 Hz)
Functions: Date

Bracelet/Strap

Bracelet/Strap: Rolex Jubilee with steel folded links, reference 62510H, end links 555, clasp code DE7 (production in July 2001)
Bracelet/Strap color: Stainless Steel
Bracelet/Strap material: Stainless Steel
Buckle/Clasp type: Fold clasp
Buckle/Clasp material: Stainless Steel
Lug width: 20mm

READ MORE ABOUT THE MODEL

The Rolex Datejust: A Heritage of Innovation and Elegance

Introduced in 1945 to mark Rolex's 40th anniversary, the Datejust was the first automatic watch to feature a date window that “jumped” instantly at midnight. This innovation, as so often in Rolex history, transformed the watch industry and set a new standard for convenience and functionality.

Over the decades, the Datejust has benefited from various improvements while retaining its characteristic appearance and pioneering spirit. With its instantly recognizable date window, enlarged by a Cyclops magnifier patented in the 1950s, the Datejust combines practicality and prestige, making it one of the most versatile and celebrated models in the Rolex family.

The universal appeal of the Datejust lies in the diversity of its executions and their timelessness – available in a multitude of sizes, materials and dial configurations, each piece offers something unique while respecting Rolex's stylistic canons and rigorous technical standards. Whether crafted in stainless steel or in precious metals, featuring simple markers or elaborate diamond settings, each Datejust is designed to stand the test of time, both in terms of style and of mechanical reliability.

Rolex has continually adapted the collection to meet the evolving tastes of its clientele, notably by introducing the Datejust II and Datejust 41 models, which are larger and heavier than the references produced to date.

The Datejust is not just a watch; it's a piece of heritage that has graced the wrists of the world's greatest leaders, visionaries, artists and celebrities, making it a symbol of success and achievement across generations. Let's only name a few of its wearers: Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King Jr, the Dalai Lama, Roger Federer, Jennifer Aniston, Paul Newman, Michael Jordan, Bill Clinton, Tom Cruise, Rihanna, Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, Jacques Chirac, Pope John Paul II, and even Mao Zedong!

Today, the Rolex Datejust, a true “blue chip watch” with timeless style, is the ideal entry point for anyone wishing to discover the world of vintage watch collecting, while still being wearable on a daily basis.