Superb 1969 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 in Steel – “Blue Shantung/Mosaic” Dial

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This Rolex Datejust reference 1601, produced in 1969 (serial number 215xxxx), features one of the most sought-after dials of the period: the “Blue Shantung”, sometimes also nicknamed “Mosaic” or “Tapestry”. This configuration is particularly prized by collectors.
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, certified as a chronometer by the Bureau officiel de contrôle de la marche des montres.
The example we are offering stands out for the superb, pronounced and even patina of the luminescent material (tritium-based) on the hour markers and hands – a sought-after natural evolution that lends the dial a unique depth and warmth, through its contrast with the shimmering blue background.
The original Jubilee bracelet reference 6251H with folded links and 55 end links (buckle code 3/69, for production during the 3rd quarter of 1969), with its handsome clasp cover known as the “shell”, ideally completes the ensemble.
This Datejust 1601 is preserved in superb overall condition and has undergone a complete service by a watchmaker specialising in vintage calibers. It runs to the strictest tolerances.
An exceptional 1601.

Condition

This Datejust reference 1601 is preserved in superb overall condition.
The demarcations between the matte satin/brushed and bright/mirror-polished surfaces are particularly sharp. The case retains very beautiful proportions. The winding crown is in excellent condition. The caseback, marked 1.69 for production during the 1st quarter of 1969, is in excellent condition. The white gold fluted bezel is well defined and sparkling.
The highly attractive and exceedingly rare tiled blue dial, known as “Mosaic”/“Shantung” or “Tapestry”, is magnificent. The luminescent material on the hour markers and hands has developed a superb, pronounced yellow patina, even and warm. The date disc is original and accordingly features open 6s and 9s.
The steel Rolex Jubilee bracelet with folded links, reference 6251H, 55 end links, buckle code 3/69 (produced during the 3rd quarter of 1969) is incredibly well preserved, with no troublesome stretch.
The self-winding mechanical movement powering our Datejust, Rolex caliber 1575, has recently undergone a complete service by a watchmaker specialising in vintage models, and runs to the strictest tolerances.
A superb example!

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Specifications

General characteristics

Object ID : 6DQ9
Brand: Rolex
Model: Datejust
Reference : 1601
Year: Produced in 1969
Gender: Men's watch/Unisex
Delivered with: Amplitude° Steel Warranty Card
Crystal type:
Plexiglass
Dial color:
Blue
Dial markers: No numerals
Year (C24):
1969
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: Steel Rolex Jubilee with folded links, reference 6251H, 55 end links, buckle code 3/69 (produced during the 3rd quarter of 1969)
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.