1970 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 in Steel – “Silver Wide Boy” Dial

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This Rolex Datejust reference 1601, produced in 1970 (serial number 237xxxx), features a sought-after dial: the so-called “Wide Boy,” silver “Pie-Pan,” dial, with applied hour markers that are wider than usual and matching hands – it’s the only dial variant to have its own, specific set of hands. It is inscribed “T SWISS T” at 6 o’clock, as expected for a 1970 example.
The 36 mm steel case, with its characteristic fluted white gold bezel, houses the Rolex caliber 1575 automatic movement, a robust, reliable, and precise engine, certified as a chronometer.
The example we are offering is distinguished by the condition of its case and by the superb uniform patina of the luminescent material (tritium base) of the markers 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 the background.
The Jubilee bracelet with folded steel links, reference 6251 and 55 end links, comfortable and durable, harmoniously completes the watch.
This Datejust “Wide Boy” is preserved in excellent overall condition, has undergone a complete overhaul by a watchmaker specializing in vintage calibers, and operates within the strictest tolerances.

Condition

This Datejust reference 1601 is preserved in excellent overall condition.
The lines between the matte/satin/brushed and glossy/mirror-polished surfaces are sharp. The case maintains very attractive 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, known as the “Wide Boy” variant, is magnificent. The luminescent material on the hour markers and matching hands has developed a superb, even, and warm patina. All the dots at the tips of the hour markers are present, complete, and perfectly round. The date disc is original and displays the open 6s and 9s.
The stainless steel Rolex Jubilee bracelet with folded links, reference 6251, 55 end links, clasp code B (production in 1977) is in excellent condition, without 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 within the strictest tolerances.
A superb example!

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Specifications

General characteristics

Object ID : FJGH
Brand: Rolex
Model: Datejust
Reference : 1601
Year: Produced in 1970
Gender: Men's watch/Unisex
Delivered with: Amplitude° Steel Warranty Card
Crystal type:
Plexiglass
Dial color:
Silver
Dial markers: No numerals
Year (C24):
1970
Scope of delivery:
Watch only

Case

Case material: Steel
Case shape:
Round
Case back: Solid, screwed
Bezel material: White Gold
Dimensions/Diameter: 36 mm

Movement

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

Bracelet/Strap

Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Rolex Jubilee with folded links, reference 6251, 55 end links, clasp code B (produced in 1977)
Bracelet/Strap color: Steel
Bracelet/Strap material: Steel
Buckle/Clasp type: Fold clasp
Buckle/Clasp material: Steel
Lug width: 20 mm

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.