Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 1601 (1973) – Blue Matte Dial & 18ct White Gold Bezel

The Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 1601 from 1973 is a particularly beautiful and rare vintage Rolex with an exceptional blue, rather matte dial and an 18-carat white gold bezel.

The watch was recently serviced in July 2026 and is in excellent overall condition. Particularly noteworthy are the original Rolex acrylic crystal and the exceptionally well-running Rolex Caliber 1570. The timekeeping values have been tested and are an impressive 0 seconds per day.

The blue dial differs visually from the classic sunburst dials found on many Datejust models. The slightly more matte surface gives this watch a particularly elegant and understated character.

Case & 18ct White Gold Bezel

The 36 mm stainless steel case is in mint condition.

The characteristic fluted bezel is made of 18 carat white gold and is in very good condition. The case has been professionally reconditioned, cleaned, and highly polished.

The combination of stainless steel and 18 carat white gold is one of the most famous configurations of the Rolex Datejust and gives this vintage model a timeless elegance.

Rare Blue Dial

The special highlight of this Datejust is the blue dial with a more matte surface.

In contrast to the frequently encountered blue sunburst dials, this example appears significantly more understated and matte. Depending on the light incidence, the blue color effect changes and gives the watch a particularly elegant vintage character.

The dial is in mint condition, making it one of the outstanding features of this example.

Original Rolex Acrylic Crystal

The watch still features its original Rolex acrylic crystal.

The crystal is in mint condition and has been carefully polished. For collectors, the preserved original crystal is a particularly beautiful detail and emphasizes the authentic vintage character of the Datejust.

Rolex Caliber 1570

Inside, the legendary Rolex Caliber 1570, a robust and proven automatic Rolex manufacture movement, is at work.

The movement was professionally cleaned, oiled, and regulated in July 2026. Subsequently, the watch was comprehensively tested, and the timekeeping values were checked on the timing machine.

Technical specifications:

• Rolex Caliber 1570
• Automatic movement
• Power reserve: approx. 48 hours
• Accuracy: 0 seconds per day
• Amplitude: 308°
• Beat error: 0.7 ms

The measured accuracy of 0 seconds per day is exceptional for a vintage watch of this generation and underscores the excellent mechanical condition of the movement.

Rolex Oyster Bracelet

The bracelet is in very good condition overall.

It shows some stretch, which is barely noticeable when worn. The polished areas have been polished, while the satin-finished areas have been professionally reconditioned.

As a result, the bracelet presents itself as very well-maintained and matches the excellent condition of the watch.

Work Performed

The following work was carried out in July 2026:

• Movement cleaned and oiled
• Movement regulated
• Professionally cleaned and inspected
• Case polished to a high sheen
• Case professionally reconditioned
• Bezel polished to a high sheen
• Bracelet polished in high-gloss areas
• Satin-finished areas of the bracelet professionally reconditioned
• Original acrylic crystal polished

Scope of Delivery

The scope of delivery includes:

• The Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 1601
• Transport box
• In-house certificate of authenticity

Conclusion

The Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 1601 from 1973 is an exceptionally attractive vintage Rolex with a rare and particularly elegant combination.

The blue matte dial, the 18-carat white gold bezel, the original Rolex acrylic crystal, and the excellently preserved case make this example a particularly interesting vintage timepiece.

Technically, the watch convinces with the legendary Rolex Caliber 1570 and a measured accuracy of an impressive 0 seconds per day.

A beautiful Datejust for lovers of classic Rolex watches who are looking for a rarer dial variant and an exceptionally good technical condition.