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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Datejust wristwatch

Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 in 18k White Gold with Lapis Lazuli Dial

Partially verified

This Rolex Datejust, reference 1601, is a 1978 wristwatch constructed from 18k white gold. It features a natural lapis lazuli stone dial, characterized by a saturated blue color with gold flecks, produced without hour markers to emphasize the texture and depth of the stone. The watch is paired with an 18k white gold Jubilee bracelet, reference 6311, containing 19 links and dated with the code 'O8'. The case measures 36mm and retains its original fluted bezel. The movement displays the date via an original metallic disc featuring open 6 and 9 numerals. The auction description reports that the watch is in excellent condition, noting that the case retains its original proportions and sharp edges, and the lapis dial is free from cracks. The watch currently functions accurately.

Front view of the 1978 Rolex Datejust ref. 1601 showing the lapis lazuli dial and fluted bezel.
Front view of the 1978 Rolex Datejust ref. 1601 showing the lapis lazuli dial and fluted bezel. — Craft & Tailored. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
zamanito.com
Category
Wristwatch · Datejust wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
1601
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
1978
Source-reported place
Switzerland

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

The watch is housed in an 18k white gold case measuring 36mm in diameter. The design includes a signature fluted bezel, which the auction description indicates has preserved its primary details and original sharpness. The case is noted for maintaining its original curvature and finish, suggesting limited polishing throughout its history.

The centerpiece of the watch is a natural lapis lazuli dial, which displays a distinct blue coloration and natural golden inclusions. The dial is devoid of hour markers, a design choice intended to focus attention on the stone's organic texture. The auction description confirms that the dial is free from cracks or damage and that the 18k white gold hands remain in excellent condition.

Evidence for this section
  • “قاب طلای سفید ۱۸ عیار آن دارای تناسبات عالی و لبه‌های بسیار تیز است”
  • “زه دور صفحه (Bezel) که به سبک شیاردار یا Fluted طراحی شده، همچنان ظرافت و جزئیات اصلی خود را حفظ کرده است”
  • “صفحه ساعت بدون هیچ‌گونه ترک یا آسیب‌دیدگی کاملاً سالم باقی مانده است”

Bracelet and Components

The timepiece is accompanied by a Jubilee bracelet made of 18k white gold, identified by the reference number 6311. This bracelet is stated to be period-correct for the watch and carries the production date code 'O8'.

The bracelet includes 19 individual links, providing a fit suitable for wrist sizes up to 7.5 inches.

Evidence for this section
  • “این ساعت مجهز به بند Jubilee از جنس طلای سفید ۱۸ عیار با رفرنس 6311 است”
  • “این بند که از تولیدات هم‌دوره ساعت محسوب می‌شود، دارای کد تاریخ «O8» بوده”
  • “یکی از جزئیات جذاب برای مجموعه‌داران، دیسک تاریخ اورجینال فلزی است که دارای اعداد ۶ و ۹ به صورت «باز» (Open 6 and 9) می‌باشد.”

Condition and Maintenance

According to the auction description, the watch is in a high state of preservation. The structural integrity of the case and the dial surface are highlighted as primary points of interest for collectors.

The movement is reported to keep accurate time. There are no accessories or box and papers mentioned in the source material, placing the emphasis for any prospective assessment on the physical attributes of the case, bracelet, and the authenticity of the stone dial.

Evidence for this section
  • “وضعیت فیزیکی این ساعت در سطح بسیار مطلوبی قرار دارد”
  • “ساعت زمان را کاملاً دقیق نشان می‌دهد”
  • “تمرکز اصلی باید بر روی وضعیت بدنه، اصالت صفحه و عملکرد فنی موتور باشد”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber installed in this 1601 reference?
  • Can the 'O8' date code on the bracelet be definitively correlated to the production timeline of this specific watch serial number?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 in 18k White Gold with Lapis Lazuli Dial
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerRolex“برند: Rolex”
Reference1601“مدل: Datejust 1601”
Production Year1978“سال تولید: 1978”
Case Material18k White Gold“جنس بدنه: 18K White Gold”
Bracelet Reference6311“نوع بند: Rolex 6311 18K WG Jubilee”
Dial MaterialLapis Lazuli“جنس صفحه: Lapis Lazuli (سنگ لاجورد)”
Date disc styleOpen 6 and 9“دیسک تاریخ: Open 6 and 9”
Bracelet length19 links“تعداد لینک‌ها: 19”

Visible details

  • Blue lapis lazuli stone dial lacking hour markers
  • Fluted bezel in white gold
  • Jubilee bracelet with 19 links
  • Date aperture showing 'open' 6 and 9 numerals

Research qualifications

  • Absence of documented accessories
  • Natural wear on the bracelet clasp and links consistent with age

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

Consulted source

رولکس Datejust رفرنس 1601، سال ۱۹۷۸، طلای سفید 18K با صفحه سنگ لاجورد

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 421c88eef6

Terms in this record

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

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