Why This Watch Matters This watch is remarkable not only because of its contrasting two-tone case, but also because of its matte-black dial, which really makes this vintage Datejust sing. The Full Story The reference 1601 represents the archetypal Datejust, and features a fluted bezel in a precious metal. The watch was offered in stainless steel, solid gold, or a mix of both, as seen in this example. The patina on the gold gives it a warmer feel that can be found only in vintage pieces that have not been polished for a while. And here, the patinated gold goes amazingly well with the matte-black dial, complemented by the gold font, indexes, and date disc. A golden watch, in the truest sense. The Fine Print Maker: RolexModel: DatejustReference: 1601Year: 1974Case No: 3831XXXMaterial: Stainless steel and yellow goldDimensions: 36 mm diameter; 12 mm thicknessSapphire Crystal: NoLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Caliber 1570 automatic-winding movementBracelet/Strap: Two-tone Rolex Jubilee bracelet reference 62523HLug Width: 20 mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know It is clear to see that this Datejust has not been polished in a while, which explains the warm tone of the yellow gold, and the great lugs. Overall, the case is thick with well-marked engravings, which we love to see. There is a noticeable scratch on the lower right lug, but otherwise the case bands do not display any deep marks. The matte-black dial does not have any defects and has kept all of its lume dots, matching the lume on the handset. The later Jubilee bracelet is not excessively stretched. Overall, this vintage Datejust is in fantastic condition.