Why This Watch Matters Two tone, when done right, just hits different. This Datejust is very clean and has a great, classic Rolex look. The Full Story The Datejust has remained Rolex’s mainstay model since the brand introduced it in 1945. When done the right way, two-tone case metals just work. Sometimes it's as simple as that. Someone in the office mentioned recently why they're interested in two-tone; it's not as brash as an all-gold case, but you still get some precious metal to make the watch feel all the more special. With a large variety of Datejust iterations and configurations offered over the decades, this variant is one of our favorites. The silver, sunburst dial provides the Datejust with a subtle texture and just classic look, which catches light in a really special way. This model stands out even more due to the prominent step in the outer portion of the dial, which adds a stunning layer of dimension to the look. As we've discovered, Rolex was not always consistent, so it's interesting to see these little differences between the same references. The fluted gold bezel on this example is likely a replacement, as the ref. 1600 would have had a smooth gold bezel originally. This watch is in overall attractive condition and just has a great vintage look. We especially love the execution of the two-tone case metal by Rolex in the Datejust. With the aforementioned silver toned dial, the bezel, crown, and hour markers are just enough gold to stand out but never overpower. We paired this watch with our Bedford Strap in Olive Green. We really love the way a dusty green strap like this plays off of gold details on vintage watches. Even if green isn't your thing, the look is undeniably attractive. The Fine Print Maker: RolexModel: DatejustReference: 1600Year: 1970Case No: 2483112Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 36mm diameter; 12mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Rolex, self-winding, caliber 1575Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE The Bedford Watch Strap In Olive GreenLug Width: 20mmBox/Papers: No What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: - Silver sunburst dial- Classic two-tone motif- Clean overall condition Things To Know: - Scratches on case- Bezel is a fluted Rolex replacement This ref. 1600 is in overall great and attractive condition. The case shows some light scratches. There are a few nicks in the sides of the case. The back of the lugs and caseback have scratches. The silver sunburst dial is in good condition with light patina throughout. The dial shows some wear on the bottom edge. The applied gold hour markers have developed a warm patina over the years. The lume on the dial has turned to an even light buttery yellow color. There are some signs of normal lume degradation at some of the hour markers. The hands have developed some patina. The lume on the hands has patina and aged to a color close to matching the dial, although slightly darker in some areas. The case, dial, movement, and crown are signed by Rolex. The gold fluted bezel is a Rolex replacement and has developed patina but is in overall good condition. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
