Rolex Oyster 1573

Reference 1573 is an exceptionally rare variant of the 34mm Oyster Perpetual Date, produced in very small numbers in the 1970s. As a member of the 15xx family, it is powered by the robust Caliber 1570/1575, a COSC-certified automatic movement. The technical distinction of the 73 suffix is a bezel with a hand-applied ‘Florentine’ or ‘Morellis’ finish, a fine, stippled texture that creates a shimmering effect different from standard fluted or barked bezels. The case was typically constructed in 18k yellow gold and fitted with an acrylic crystal. The significance of the Ref. 1573 lies in its status as a rare, artisanal version of the classic Date model, showcasing Rolex’s decorative capabilities on a non-flagship timepiece.