This Watch

We have here a stunning Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date, model 1501, from 1971.  The dial on this watch is incredible and we can't stop staring at it!  It has a really fascinating mosaic electric blue original dial with slick baton markers.  The date function is under a cyclops glass at 3 o'clock and the dial is signed 'Rolex, Oyster Perpetual Date' with the famous Rolex crown logo at 12 o'clock and 'Superlative Chronometer, Officially Certified' at 6 o'clock. Notice its original thick engine turned bezel which makes this model stand out from the crowd.

The stainless steel, screw back Oyster case is complete with an engine-turned bezel, making this watch look like the epitome of 1970s style!  And of course, no Rolex Oyster would be complete with the screw-down Oyster crown.  Inside is the perpetual (automatic) Rolex caliber 1570, fully serviced by us and running strongly.  The watch comes paired on its original Oyster bracelet for a more sporty feel.

Hans Wilsdorf founded Rolex in 1905 at the age of 24, along with Alfred Davis in London. In 1919 they moved their operation to Geneva, Switzerland. This move was brought about by high wartime taxes on Gold and Silver in the UK after the Great war 1914-1918. They were now closer to their suppliers in Bienne.

The Rolex Oyster case was released in 1926. Marketed as the world's first “waterproof” watch. The notches on the bezel and case back meant they could be screwed down to the middle case with a special tool invented and manufactured by Rolex to hermetically seal the case. In 1927 a young swimmer Miss Mercedes Gleitz swam the English channel wearing the “Oyster”. Later in 1933 the team of the first expedition to fly over Everest wore them. It was also famously worn by Sir Malcolm Campbell, “King Of Speed”, on the 4th September 1935. An advert of the time made a big splash with him saying “The Rolex watch is still keeping perfect time- I was wearing it yesterday when Bluebird exceeded 300 mph.” He broke the world land speed record 9 times between 1924 and 1936. 1931 saw the debut of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, their first self-winding watch that was also water-resistant and dustproof.

This watch comes fully serviced by our on-site workshop and with our 12 months, non-waterproof service cover.

What we think

We absolutely adore the watch, it's a great 1970s twist on the classic Rolex styles.  At 34.5mm, it's a comfortable wear on both male and female wrists and can be switched from bracelet to strap at your leisure.  It would make a stunning addition to any respectable collection. Blue is a must and original blue dials in this condition from this vintage are indeed rare.

Spec Stuff