DATEJUST MODEL, REF. 1601, CASE NO. 1'237'316, CIRCA 1966

The present reference 1601 stands out for its highly unusual dial configuration, made in very limited numbers, most probably for the Japanese market. It was made by Stern Freres (No. 7★R270), a well-known dial supplier to Rolex, and is distinguished by a striking black outer track contrasted with a grey sector beneath each hour marker. A particularly appealing example of the Datejust, this subtle yet unique design element gives the watch an unmistakable character and rarity.

The Rolex Datejust was designed to celebrate the brand's 40th anniversary and was first released in 1945, at the close of World War II. It has become one of the most recognizable and durable wristwatches in the world as well as being one of Rolex's most iconic models.

It differed from its peers due to its technical inventiveness. In contrast to other watches of the era, which had date displays that changed gradually between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., the Datejust was the first wristwatch to have an automatically changing date that would advance instantly at midnight. The Datejust has been made in a remarkable variety of dial colors, case sizes, bezel designs, metals, and bracelet configurations over the last 80 years, providing collectors and enthusiasts with a wide range of choices while staying true to its classic DNA.