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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Datejust

1976 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 with Onyx Stone Dial

Partially verified

This 1976 Rolex Datejust, reference 1601, features an 18K yellow gold case and a rare black onyx stone dial. The watch was produced as part of a series using exotic materials, including various minerals and stones, manufactured in limited quantities. The timepiece measures 36mm in diameter and is fitted with a fluted 18K yellow gold bezel. The dial incorporates solid yellow gold hands and a metallic gold date wheel characterized by open 6 and 9 numerals. The case exhibits signs of gentle use, and the watch is presented on a two-piece handmade leather strap. The auction description reports that the case has not been significantly polished and retains its original finish.

Front view of the 1976 Rolex Datejust reference 1601 showing the onyx stone dial and 18K yellow gold case.
Front view of the 1976 Rolex Datejust reference 1601 showing the onyx stone dial and 18K yellow gold case. — 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
RLXDJ1601YGONX
Source-reported date
1976
Source-reported place
Not established
Source-reported serial
41XXXXX

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 Dial Construction

The watch is housed in an 18K yellow gold case measuring 36mm in diameter. The fixed bezel is of the fluted variety, also crafted from 18K yellow gold. According to the auction description, the case has minimal evidence of being previously polished and retains its original finish on the case back. The bezel shows a deep patina alongside signs of use.

The dial is composed of black onyx stone, a material Rolex utilized in limited production runs for certain timepieces. The dial lacks any cracks and is paired with solid yellow gold hands. The date display features a metallic gold date wheel with open-style 6 and 9 numerals, consistent with the reference's production period.

Evidence for this section
  • “The impressive 18K yellow gold case remains in incredibly crisp condition, showing honest signs of gentle use with minimal evidence of being previously polished present.”
  • “The original deep black Onyx stone dial is simply incredible with no cracks present whatsoever.”
  • “The metallic gold date wheel is original with "open" 6's and 9's.”

Production and Rarity

This watch is identified as a member of a group of Rolex timepieces manufactured with exotic materials, such as minerals and woods. The source notes that such dials were produced in very limited numbers, with rarity varying based on the specific material chosen.

While stone dials are commonly associated with the Day-Date reference, their appearance in the Datejust series is described as elusive.

Evidence for this section
  • “On an extremely limited basis, Rolex manufactured timepieces featuring exotic materials.”
  • “These exotic variants are always strikingly vivid with a minimalist design and each exotic variant was produced in very limited numbers.”
  • “The Datejust stone dials are elusive as Rolex stone dials are most commonly seen in the Day-Date references.”

Condition and Accessories

The watch is supplied on a two-piece handmade leather strap rather than a bracelet.

No original box or papers are included with this lot. The overall condition is described as having honest signs of gentle use, with the case back retaining its original finish.

Evidence for this section
  • “The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.”
  • “The watch is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.”
  • “None. The watch is keeping time perfectly”

Open research questions

  • Does the movement calibre inside this specific 1601 reference match the 1976 production window?
  • Can the specific serial number provide a more precise month of manufacture within 1976?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for 1976 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 with Onyx Stone Dial
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
ManufacturerRolex“Vendor: Rolex”
Date1976“1976 Rolex Datejust”
Strap2pc Handmade Leather Strap“2pc Handmade Leather Strap”

Visible details

  • Black onyx stone dial with no visible cracks
  • Metallic date wheel with open 6 and 9 numerals
  • 18K yellow gold fluted bezel with signs of patina
  • Solid yellow gold hands

Research qualifications

  • Full serial number is partially redacted in source
  • Exact manufacturing process of the stone dial is not provided

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

Consulted source

ساعت Rolex Datejust 18K YG (Ref. 1601) با صفحه سنگ Onyx مدل ۱۹۷۶

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record bdf835a661

Terms in this record

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

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