Vintage Rolex Datejust 36 Pie-Pan Dial - Ref. 1601

Heritage & Design

Introduced in 1945, the Rolex Datejust was the first self-winding, waterproof chronometer wristwatch to feature an automatically changing date display. The Ref. 1601 is admired for its distinctive “pie pan” dial, characterised by a sloping outer edge that creates subtle depth. This circa 1970 example features an early tritium dial, reflecting Rolex’s transition away from radium-based luminous materials during the 1960s due to concerns about radium’s radioactivity. These characteristics make the reference particularly appealing to vintage Rolex collectors.

Case & Details

This Datejust features a 36mm stainless steel case with a silver pie pan dial, applied baton hour markers and a date display at 3 o’clock. Its straight, rectangular baton hands feature squared-off tips that complement the matching hour markers, creating a cohesive design. Interestingly, the hands are crafted in 18ct white gold to correspond with the fluted bezel, a design choice made so that the hands and bezel would age consistently over time while ensuring that the hands offer lasting resistance to corrosion as well as their lustre. A plexiglass crystal and original stainless steel Jubilee bracelet complete the watch. Please note, the original Jubilee bracelet displays noticeable stretch, as shown in the photographs.

Movement & Provenance

Powered by the Rolex calibre 1575 automatic movement, offering an approximately 42-hour power reserve. Offered with box only, circa 1970. Its pie pan dial, early tritium configuration and traditional gold handset reflect an important period in Rolex’s design history. As with all vintage timepieces, we do not recommend wearing this watch in or around water, regardless of its original water resistance rating. For complete peace of mind, this timepiece is accompanied by our 24 month J. Farren Price warranty.

The following guide explains the condition terms used throughout our pre-owned and vintage watch collection.

• New
  Brand-new and unworn, supplied by J. Farren Price as an authorised dealer with the applicable manufacturer warranty.
• New Old Stock (NOS)
  An unworn watch from an earlier production period. Minor storage or handling marks may be present.
• Mint
  An exceptional pre-owned example presenting in near-new condition, with no visible wear.
• Excellent
  A very well-preserved watch showing only light signs of careful use.
• Very Good
  A well-presented watch showing normal signs of use, including minor scratches or surface wear.
• Good
  A watch showing more noticeable signs of regular use and age, while remaining presentable.

Vintage watches
Condition is assessed in the context of the watch's age. Natural patina and period-appropriate ageing may be present and do not necessarily detract from its grade.

Condition grades relate to cosmetic presentation. Originality, replacement parts, service history and accessories are described separately where known. Please refer to the individual product description and photographs for further details.

For more in depth information about any of our timepieces, feel free to contact our team directly on (08) 8223 2787 or visit our boutique to view in person.