1970s Rolex Datejust 1601 with grey linen dial
Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf in London, Rolex quickly became a leader in watchmaking, known for its innovation, precision, and timeless design. Originally called Wilsdorf & Davis, the brand adopted the name Rolex in 1908, aiming to create a name that was easy to pronounce in any language and looked elegant on a watch dial.
Rolex is celebrated for several groundbreaking innovations in horology. In 1926, the brand introduced the Oyster, the world’s first waterproof wristwatch, which set a new standard for durability. The Perpetual movement, unveiled in 1931, introduced the self-winding mechanism that became a hallmark of Rolex’s watches. Throughout the 20th century, Rolex produced iconic models like the Datejust, Submariner, Daytona, and GMT-Master, each establishing itself as a symbol of luxury and reliability.
Rolex watches have been worn by explorers, athletes, and professionals around the world, from the depths of the ocean to the heights of Mount Everest. Their precision, robustness, and timeless design have made Rolex the ultimate status symbol and a favorite among collectors.
Introduced in the 1960s, the Datejust 1601 features a 36mm case made from stainless steel with a 18k white gold fluted bezel that adds a touch of refinement.
What makes this particular model stand out is the linen dial—a textured, fabric-like pattern that gives the watch a distinctive look. The grey hue adds depth and versatility, making it perfect for both formal and casual settings. The silver or white gold baton hour markers, paired with slender hands, offer excellent legibility, while the Cyclops lens over the date window at 3 o’clock ensures easy reading of the date.
Powered by the automatic Rolex Caliber 1575 movement, the 1601 is highly reliable and accurate, featuring a quickset date function that was cutting-edge for its time. The combination of the linen grey dial, classic proportions, and robust craftsmanship makes this Datejust 1601 a highly sought-after piece, beloved by vintage watch enthusiasts for its unique dial texture and timeless Rolex quality.
