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Lot Essay
The Ref. 1600 is distinguished by its smooth polished bezel—a quieter alternative to the fluted bezels that dominate the Datejust family. Yellow gold examples are considerably rarer than steel, and when paired with a factory stone dial, they become genuinely scarce.
The lapis lazuli dial is the centrepiece. Prized since antiquity, its deep blue surface is flecked with natural pyrite inclusions, giving each dial a character no lacquer or sunburst finish can replicate. Rolex's hardstone dials were produced in vanishingly small numbers, and the fragility of the material ensured high rejection rates during manufacturing.
The combination of yellow gold, smooth bezel, lapis lazuli dial, and riveted bracelet makes this a compelling proposition for collectors seeking a vintage Datejust with genuine character.
The lapis lazuli dial is the centrepiece. Prized since antiquity, its deep blue surface is flecked with natural pyrite inclusions, giving each dial a character no lacquer or sunburst finish can replicate. Rolex's hardstone dials were produced in vanishingly small numbers, and the fragility of the material ensured high rejection rates during manufacturing.
The combination of yellow gold, smooth bezel, lapis lazuli dial, and riveted bracelet makes this a compelling proposition for collectors seeking a vintage Datejust with genuine character.