Why This Watch Matters This Datejust has a lot going for it. With a bright blue sigma dial, full lume plots, and a comfortable folded Jubilee bracelet, this “simple” Rolex is a lot more than meets the eye. The Full Story Don’t be fooled by the stainless-steel case of this Datejust, there are white-gold accents hidden throughout this classic timepiece. For one, the fluted bezel is made of white gold, as on all 1601s with stainless-steel cases; with this example, the hands and indexes are also made from the same precious metal, indicated here by the coveted Sigma dial. The Sigma at the bottom of the dial was a mark assigned by the APRIOR organization to show the care taken in manufacturing wristwatches; Rolex and Patek adopted this convention, among other brands. The blue dial contrasts nicely with the white gold, while the folded Jubilee continues to prove that it is one of the most comfortable bracelets ever. With this piece, you get the charm of vintage Datejusts in one watch. The Fine Print Maker: RolexModel: DatejustReference: 1601Year: Circa 1973Case No: 3356xxxMaterial: Stainless steelDimensions: 36 mm diameter; 12 mm thicknessSapphire Crystal: NoLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Caliber 1570 automatic-winding movementBracelet/Strap: Rolex folded Jubilee bracelet reference 6251H with end-links reference 55Lug Width: 20 mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This Datejust offers a great case and rare well-preserved lugs (with this reference, many examples end up over-polished). We really like that all of the lume dots are present and whole, with a patina matching that of the handset. The blue dial is spectacular, but has a couple of small areas where the color has faded, mostly visible near the edges. The folded Rolex Jubilee bracelet is in great condition for its age, with some expected stretching. In short, this is a great Datejust with a twist.
