Why This Watch Matters Possibly the perfect daily wearer, this Rolex Datejust has a pie-pan dial and engine turned bezel to keep you coming back for a glance, time after time. The Full Story The Datejust has remained Rolex’s mainstay model since the brand introduced it in 1945. When it comes to popularity, the steel Oyster case and Jubilee bracelet combination is at the top of the pecking order for its sleek appearance and versatility. When paired with a silver pie-pan dial, the result is an elegant Rolex for any occasion that will never go out of style. Where the ref. 1603 Datejust stands out from the rest is with its bezel. These engine turned bezels are only found on this reference, and the look breaks away from the more classic fluted or smooth bezels that we see on Datejusts more often. Beyond the less common bezel, the overall look of this piece is most influenced by the rolled Jubilee bracelet. These early to mid 1960s Jubilee examples feature a construction and resizing method using rolled or folded links and are very unique feeling on the wrist. The feel wearing this Rolex is unmistakably vintage and extremely comfortable. The overall condition of this example is great and honest. We especially love the light yellow colored lume on each hour marker, sitting in the recessed or stepped-down portion of the dial on the minute track. This step adds an additional dimension to the watch that comes through exponentially in the overall look on the wrist. The Fine Print Maker: RolexModel: DatejustReference: 1603Year: 1967Case No: 1547403Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 36mm diameter; 11.5mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Rolex, self-winding, caliber 1575Bracelet/Strap: Rolex stainless steel Jubilee No. 6251H with No. 55 end linksLug Width: 20mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This Datejust is in overall great and honest condition. The case is in strong condition with light scratches. The case appears to have been polished. The back of the lugs have scratches that are likely from the bracelet being taken off and on. Between the lugs, where the case and reference numbers are stamped, there's wear from the bracelet rubbing over the years. The numbers are still visible with a loupe. The caseback has scratches. The silver pie-pan dial is in good condition with a patina throughout. Near the periphery, there's some more visible wear on a few areas in the minute track, and there's generally a bit more patina in that area as well. There's a faint scratch on the dial at nine o'clock. The lume on the dial has turned to an even off-white color. The hands show some patina. The lume on the hands has patina and aged to a matching color compared to that of the dial. The Jubilee bracelet is fitted with rolled links and has some light stretch in between. The clasp is marked "6251H" and the end-links are marked "55." The inside caseback is marked "IV.66," indicating the case was produced in the fourth quarter of 1966. The case, dial, movement, crown, and bracelet are signed by Rolex. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
