1975 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 'Buckley' dial Full Set with 2023 Rolex service

First released in 1945, it marked forty years of Rolex timepieces. Today, it holds a spot in even the most exclusive collections and remains one of the most popular timepieces among both men and women.

 

Loved for its sporty yet elegant design, the present-day Datejust is available in varied sizes, many case and bezel metals, and with seemingly unlimited dials.

 

The Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 was released in 1959 and it has been on the market for at least 13 years.

 

The 'Buckley' Datejust is named after famous NYC watch dealer John Buckley started collecting these rare variants. They are distinguished by the big, painted Roman numerals on the dial rather than the more commonly seen small, applied ones.

Offered here today is a classic Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 that dates to 1975 in what is the closest to New Old Stock (NOS) condition.

 

The white ‘Buckley’ dial is mesmerizing, having aged to a stunning ‘Panna’, nickname used when white dials develop a creamy, white-bone patina. The dial is flawless, featuring a stunning grained texture. The big, black, painted roman numerals, along with the rest of the black printings on the dial, are clean and perfect, with no spotting or stains, and contrast in such a harmonized way. The fat, clean, and complete lume plots add the touch of color with their amazing pumpkin patina. The original hands have aged to a slightly lighter tone than these.

 

The stainless steel case remains in perfect condition, as it has been refurbished by Rolex. It still preserves the original service protective stickers of the sides. The case back remains in the same condition, also preserving the Rolex service protective sticker. This is the closest to NOS condition. The white gold bezel has some minor scratches.

 

The Rolex automatic cal. 1575 (the date version of the 1570) is running great and keeping time, as it has been fully overhauled by Rolex in 2023 as shown on the service documentation included in the set.

 

It is suited on its an original, period correct, and brand new from 2023 Rolex Jubilee 62510 H stainless steel bracelet with 555 end links and clasp code CP12 that was purchased during the service.

 

Furthermore, it comes as a very complete full set which includes inner box, wallet, Rolex Service Centre guarantee card, Rolex service invoice, receipt and quotation confirmation showing the service costed 3905 AUS (roughly 2400 EUR) in Rolex Australia, Rolex service envelopes for documentation, Rolex service travel pouch and original punched guarantee papers showing it was sold on December 1979.

 

A classic design in like if it was new condition, with a rare and beautiful configuration, ready to become your daily beater.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request, as well as pictures of the Rolex service documentation pages.