1975 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 'Buckley' dial with Box, Papers and 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 is a Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 with ‘Buckley’ dial which dates to 1975 but is presented in virtually unworn condition.

 

The white ‘Buckley’ dial is mesmerizing, having aged to a stunning ‘Panna’ hue, nickname used when white dials develop a creamy, white-bone patina. The dial is in excellent condition, showing little age if any, and featuring a stunning grained texture. The big, black, painted roman numerals, along with the rest of the black printings on the dial, 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 shade.

 

The stainless steel case remains in perfect condition, as it has been refurbished by Rolex back to original standards. The case back remains in the same condition, preserving the Rolex service protective sticker. The white gold bezel has some minor scratches.

 

The watch is running great and keeping time, as it was fully overhauled by Rolex in 2023 as shown on the service documentation included in the set.

 

It is suited on a brand-new Rolex Jubilee 62510 H stainless steel bracelet with 555 end links and clasp code CP12 that was purchased during the service. It shows no stretch and only a light storage mark on the clasp.

 

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 cost of 3905 AUS (roughly 2400 EUR) in Rolex Australia, Rolex service envelopes for documentation, Rolex service green travel pouch and original punched guarantee papers showing it was sold on December 1979.

 

A classic design in virtually new condition, with a rare and beautiful dial configuration, ready to become your daily beater.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request.