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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Self-winding wristwatch with date

Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601/8

Partially verified

This Rolex Datejust, reference 1601/8, is a self-winding wristwatch manufactured circa 1967. The watch features an 18k yellow gold Oyster case paired with a fluted yellow gold bezel. The dial is characterized by a blue 'mosaic' texture, accented with applied yellow gold hour markers featuring luminous inserts. Luminous plots are present at each hour position on the minute track, accompanied by a yellow gold handset. The date display is positioned at the 3 o'clock marker and includes a cyclops lens on the crystal. The watch is presented on a textured light-colored leather strap, which is not original to the watch head. According to the vendor, the case has been spared of previous polishing. The timepiece is signed 'Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust' on the dial, with additional text indicating 'Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified'.

Front view of the Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601/8 featuring a blue mosaic dial on a leather strap.
Front view of the Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601/8 featuring a blue mosaic dial on a leather strap. — Oliver & Clarke. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
oliverandclarke.com
Category
Wristwatch · Self-winding wristwatch with date
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
1601/8
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1967
Source-reported place
Not established

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 timepiece is housed in an 18k yellow gold Oyster case, paired with a matching fluted yellow gold bezel. This reference belongs to the four-digit series of Datejust models, which are noted for their pie-pan dial geometry that provides a three-dimensional effect.

The dial is finished in a blue mosaic pattern. It is applied with yellow gold hour indices that feature luminous inserts, matched by luminous plots located at each hour position on the outer track. A cyclops lens is integrated into the crystal to magnify the date window located at the 3 o'clock position.

Evidence for this section
  • “solid-gold Datejust”
  • “crisp 'fluted' yellow gold bezel”
  • “pie-pan dials which offer a layer of three-dimensionality”
  • “Blue in color, the captivating 'mosaic' finishing”

Condition and Attribution

The auction description reports that the watch dates to circa 1967 and remains in preserved condition. It states that the case has not undergone previous polishing, maintaining its original thickness and symmetry.

The dial shows minimal evidence of degradation in specific areas, which the vendor describes as faint and difficult to observe without magnification. All luminous plots are noted as present.

Evidence for this section
  • “Dating to circa 1967”
  • “thick and symmetrical case that has been spared of any previous polishing”
  • “shows only faint degradation in a few areas — hardly visible to the naked eye”
  • “The luminous plots are present in all positions”

Market Context

The vendor notes that solid gold Datejust models were produced in limited quantities compared to other contemporary Rolex offerings. This distinguishes the reference from the Rolex Day-Date, which was manufactured exclusively in solid gold materials.

The watch is currently presented on a leather strap, replacing the original bracelet configuration.

Evidence for this section
  • “Rolex did not make a lot of these so it didn’t compete with its more expensive sibling, the Day-Date”
  • “These early Datejusts were available as the 1601, with a fluted white gold bezel”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber housed within this case?
  • Does the case back carry the correct 1601/8 engraving corresponding to the 18k gold production?
  • What is the complete serial number to confirm the 1967 production year?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601/8
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Reference1601/8“Ref. 1601/8”
Datecirca 1967“Dating to circa 1967”
Case material18k yellow gold“solid-gold Datejust”
Dial finishBlue mosaic“Blue in color, the captivating 'mosaic' finishing”
Condition reportUnpolished case“thick and symmetrical case that has been spared of any previous polishing”
Dial featuresLuminous plots and gold handset“The luminous plots are present in all positions and are matched by a yellow gold handset.”

Visible details

  • Blue mosaic-textured dial surface
  • Fluted yellow gold bezel
  • Luminous hour plots on the dial perimeter
  • Cyclops magnifier over the date aperture

Research qualifications

  • Exact production year is cited as 'circa 1967'
  • The leather strap is a non-original accessory
  • The internal movement condition is not described

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

Consulted source

ساعت مچی Rolex Datejust رفرنس 1601/8 با صفحه آبی موزانیکی

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 161e153a8a

Terms in this record

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

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