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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Datejust

1972 Rolex Datejust 18K Rose Gold (Ref. 1601)

Partially verified

This 1972 Rolex Datejust (Reference 1601) is constructed from 18K rose gold, a metal type noted in the source as being less commonly used by the manufacturer during this period. The watch features a 36mm case with a fluted bezel and retains an original twin-lock crown. It is paired with an 18K rose gold Gay-Freres Oyster-Rivet bracelet stamped 4/72, featuring 13 links. The timepiece has a pink sunburst "pie-pan" dial with applied hour markers, tritium lume plots, and original rose gold hands that the source states have been professionally restored with tritium. A metallic date wheel is present with "open" 6s and 9s. The watch currently functions, though its service history is unknown. The exterior components show light evidence of previous polishing and minimal wear consistent with its age.

Front view of the 1972 Rolex Datejust, displaying the rose gold fluted bezel, pink sunburst dial, and the oyster-rivet bracelet.
Front view of the 1972 Rolex Datejust, displaying the rose gold fluted bezel, pink sunburst dial, and the oyster-rivet bracelet. — Craft & Tailored. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
craftandtailored.com
Category
Wristwatch · Datejust
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
1601
Catalogue / lot identifier
RLXDJRG1601-2
Source-reported date
1972
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
29XXXXX

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Bracelet

The 36mm case is manufactured in 18K rose gold and features a fluted bezel. The auction description reports that the case is well-preserved and exhibits light evidence of past polishing along with minimal wear from use. It retains the original rose gold twin-lock crown.

The watch is accompanied by an 18K rose gold Gay-Freres Oyster-Rivet bracelet, which is stamped 4/72. It contains 13 links that exhibit nominal stretch and is sized to accommodate a wrist up to 8 inches in circumference.

Evidence for this section
  • “The wonderful and uncommon 18K rose gold case remains in very well-preserved condition, exhibiting light evidence of being previously polished and minimal wear from use.”
  • “The original 18K rose gold Gay-Freres Oyster-Rivet bracelet is stamped 4/72 and retains 13 links that show nominal stretch and will fit up to an 8-inch wrist.”

Dial and Hands

The timepiece possesses a pink sunburst "pie-pan" dial. It shows light spotting and signs of age, though no notable damage is reported. The tritium lume plots are dark and patinated but remain intact, showing only nominal degradation under UV inspection.

The rose gold hands are original to the watch and have been professionally restored with tritium to ensure consistency with the dial. The date aperture at the 3 o'clock position features a metallic date wheel, which includes the "open" 6 and 9 numerals.

Evidence for this section
  • “The original and beautiful pink sunburst "pie-pan" dial shows light spotting and age on the dial, making for a handsome vintage aesthetic, as no notable damage is present.”
  • “The original rose gold hands have been professionally restored with tritium to coordinate with the dial.”

Condition and Maintenance

The watch is described as currently keeping time. The auction house notes that the service history is unknown and that a movement service is available upon request by the purchaser.

The overall condition of the timepiece is characterized as well-preserved for its age, with minimal wear observed on the gold components.

Evidence for this section
  • “The watch is keeping time, though the service history is unknown.”
  • “The 18K rose gold fluted bezel is also in excellent, minimally polished condition.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific production month indicated by the 29XXXXX serial number sequence?
  • Are there visible service marks on the inner caseback from previous maintenance sessions?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for 1972 Rolex Datejust 18K Rose Gold (Ref. 1601)
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
BrandRolex“Brand Rolex”
Reference1601“Model 1601”
Material18K Rose Gold“Material 18K Rose Gold”
Serial29XXXXX“Serial 29XXXXX”
BraceletRolex 18K Rose Gold Oyster-Rivet Bracelet“Bracelet Rolex 18K Rose Gold Oyster-Rivet Bracelet W/ 76 End Pieces”
Date wheelMetallic with open 6s and 9s“The metallic date wheel is original with "open" 6's and 9's.”
HandsRestored with tritium“The original rose gold hands have been professionally restored with tritium to coordinate with the dial.”

Visible details

  • Fluted bezel in rose gold
  • Pink sunburst pie-pan dial
  • Oyster-Rivet bracelet with rivets visible
  • Magnified date aperture at 3 o'clock

Research qualifications

  • Service history is unknown
  • Exactly how much metal was removed during previous polishing is not specified

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت Rolex Datejust 18K RG (Ref. 1601) مدل ۱۹۷۲

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record fe80619f48

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Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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