Rolex
1965 Rolex Datejust (Ref. 1603) Black GILT "Starry Night" Dial
The Rolex Datejust is one of the most iconic and beloved made by Rolex. Launched in 1945, it remains a timeless classic and is instantly recognizable as an item of superior quality and functional design. The Datejust can be worn just as easily with a suit as it can be with jeans and a t-shirt. The Datejust would make a great start for a new vintage collector and is always a great addition to an expanding collection.
We love the early Rolex Datejust for its simplicity and its classic sophistication. The engine turned bezel on this example yields a classic and slightly less dressed up look than the gold fluted bezel more commonly found on the Datejust making it a bit more versatile, especially as a first vintage piece. This specific example just received a complete overhaul and is running flawlessly!
SPECS
| Stock # | RLXDJ1603-65 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Datejust | |
| Model | 1603 | |
| Serial | 13XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Black GILT "Starry Night" | |
| Millimeters | 36 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 7206 Oyster-Rivet Bracelet W/ 58 end Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The thick case exhibits minimal signs of previous polishing, retaining very full and symmetrical lugs that show light signs of honest use. The stainless steel engine turned bezel is in excellent unpolished condition with honest signs of light use. The original Rolex 7206 Oyster bracelet with 58 end pieces is stamped 2/66 and retains 12 links that show light stretch.
DIAL & HANDS
The original black gilt dial is incredibly impressive and gorgeous, the dial retains its glossy finish and has achieved a beautiful speckled patina that resembles a starry night and exhibits no craking or major damage in the lacquer. The silver gilt text and minute track remain supber condition as well. The tritium lume plots have aged to a handsome creamy patina and all remain intact, showing very light degradation throughout when inspected under U.V. light. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and exhibit no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The metallic date wheel exhibits closed 6's and 9's which is era correct for this watch.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on timekeeping accuracy.