1971 Rolex Datejust 1600 “Blue Sigma Dial”

This Rolex Datejust reference 1600 in steel with smooth bezel was produced in 1971 (serial number 287xxxx). It is fitted with a steel Oyster bracelet – the same as on the GMT-Masters of the period. Its superb matte face, nicknamed the “Blue Sigma Dial”, is very well preserved and sought after by connoisseurs – blue dials are indeed among the rarest in the “plexi” Datejust production, and often have heavily oxidized over time, which is not the case here. The dots of luminescent material (tritium base) at the tips of the markers and on the hands have developed a beautiful patina.
This watch is part of the Datejust 160x series, celebrated and appreciated for their raised “pie-pan” dials, giving them an obvious vintage charm.
In excellent overall condition and recently serviced by a qualified watchmaker, this Datejust reference 1600 is an excellent vintage collector's watch, while being perfectly usable on a daily basis thanks to its build quality and the reliability of its automatic movement.

Vintage watch enthusiasts will sometimes notice the presence of the “σ” (Sigma) symbol on the dial of watches from prestigious brands, such as Rolex. Introduced in the early 1970s, this symbol was printed to indicate that visible elements, such as hour markers and sometimes hands, were made of gold.

This initiative was encouraged by the Swiss Association for the Industrial Promotion of Gold (APRIOR in French) with the aim of promoting Swiss watches in the face of international competition and highlighting the superior quality of the components used. The use of gold not only increases the intrinsic value of the watch (the price of gold having almost quadrupled between 1970 and 1974), but also enhances its aesthetic with a distinct shine and refined finish.

The presence of the Sigma letter is mainly observed near the words “T SWISS T” at the bottom of the dial. Since all the dials equipped with precious metal decorations do not bear this sign, its presence makes the models boasting it particularly attractive to collectors.

This feature, in addition to being an indicator of quality and luxury, also serves as a point of historical interest, illustrating a time when the Swiss watch industry sought to stand out through the unparalleled quality of its products.

The movement that powers this Datejust, mechanical with automatic winding, Rolex caliber 1570, has recently undergone a complete overhaul by a watchmaker specializing in vintage models, and operates within the strictest tolerances.

This beautiful Datejust is presented in excellent overall condition.
The well-preserved case has wide, satin-brushed lugs, as when this watch was first made in 1971. The smooth steel bezel is defined.
The Sigma blue dial is superbly preserved, even though this colour is known to often show discolouration and oxidation marks 50 years after the birth of these dials – which is not the case here. The tritium luminous dots have developed a beautiful patina, some are puffier than others. During a recent service, the plexiglass was replaced by a new one to ensure perfect transparency.
The Oyster bracelet, a few years newer than the watch and solid, is preserved in very good condition. The Rolex crown stamped on the buckle is perfectly sharp.
The movement powering this Datejust, a mechanical self-winding Rolex calibre 1570, has recently undergone a complete overhaul by a watchmaker specialising in vintage models, and operates to the strictest tolerances.
A timepiece that is over 50 years old and yet remarkably well preserved, both aesthetically and mechanically.

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