Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1521

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 1521 is a lesser-known reference from the early 1960s, generally considered a regional or market-specific variant within the Oyster Perpetual Date line. It features the classic 34mm stainless steel Oyster case with smooth or occasionally engine-turned bezels, coupled with an acrylic crystal and a Cyclops magnifier over the date window at 3 o’clock. As with other references in this series, the 1521 is fitted with a screw-down crown and caseback, ensuring water resistance consistent with Rolex standards. Inside, the watch houses the Rolex Caliber 1530, an early automatic movement known for its reliability and smooth bi-directional winding system, offering a power reserve of around 42 hours. Dials were typically offered in traditional finishes like silver, black, or champagne, with applied markers and dauphine or stick hands. Lume materials used during this period included radium and later tritium. With a lug-to-lug length of 41mm and a lug width of 19mm, the ref. 1521 provides familiar and well-balanced dimensions on the wrist. Although not widely recognized among mainstream collectors, the 1521 offers the appeal of a transitional vintage Rolex with all the signature hallmarks of the Oyster Perpetual Date series.