Rolex Datejust 1601

Reference 1601 is the archetypal fluted-bezel model from the 36mm Datejust 16xx series, which had a very long production run from approximately 1959 to 1977. It was powered by the Caliber 1565 and later the iconic Caliber 1575, both non-quickset date automatic movements. The most common technical specification is ‘Yellow Rolesor,’ combining a stainless steel case with a solid 18k yellow gold fluted bezel. A key technical feature of early examples is the ‘pie-pan’ dial. The significance of the Ref. 1601 is immense, as it represents the perfected form of the non-quickset generation, defining the image of a luxury watch for millions.