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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Self-winding wristwatch

Rolex Datejust Reference 1601/9

Partially verified

This Rolex Datejust reference 1601/9 is a self-winding wristwatch produced in solid white gold. Characterized by the manufacturer as a four-digit series model, it features a fluted white gold bezel and a glossy black gilt dial. The watch case displays symmetrical lugs with hallmarks on the undersides. The dial is equipped with alpha-style hands and tritium luminous plots. The watch is powered by an Oyster Perpetual movement, consistent with the model's design for everyday use. As reported by the vendor, this specific example dates to circa 1963 and retains its original white gold crown. The overall condition is described as having light wear, with the dial exhibiting some stippling visible under magnification and uniform patination on the luminous markers. It is presented on a leather strap.

Front view of the Rolex Datejust reference 1601/9 showing the glossy black dial and fluted bezel.
Front view of the Rolex Datejust reference 1601/9 showing the glossy black dial and fluted bezel. — Oliver & Clarke. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
oliverandclarke.com
Category
Wristwatch · Self-winding wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
1601/9
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1963
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 Bezel

The watch is housed in an Oyster case constructed of solid white gold. According to the vendor, the case maintains thick and symmetrical lines, with hallmarks clearly visible on the undersides of the lugs. The exterior shows light signs of wear consistent with its age.

The bezel is a characteristic fluted design made of white gold, which retains its original definition and finishing. The watch is fitted with its correct white gold crown, as noted by the auction description.

Evidence for this section
  • “The case featured thick and symmetrical, with deep and clear hallmarks on the lug undersides and shows just light sign of wear.”
  • “The characteristic 'fluted' white gold bezel remains crisp, with defined finishing and shows matching wear.”
  • “This piece even retains its correct white gold crown.”

Dial and Hands

The dial is finished in a glossy black gilt, which the vendor reports is well-preserved. Under magnification, the surface displays faint areas of stippling. The hour markers feature tritium plots that have developed an even patina over time, with partial loss noted on a few positions.

The display is completed with an alpha-style handset. The dial is signed with the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust branding and denotes its chronometer certification.

Evidence for this section
  • “the 'gilt' dial is nicely preserved, with it's rich glossy black color largely preserved with just faint areas of 'stippling' present when viewed under magnification.”
  • “The Tritium plots are evenly patinated and present in all positions with just partial loss to a few, and the correct 'alpha' handset matches beautifully.”

Provenance and Condition

The watch is identified by the vendor as a 1963 example. The condition is described by the seller as fantastic overall. The description notes that the watch has been assessed for its cosmetic state, highlighting the preservation of the dial and the integrity of the case geometry.

The vendor suggests that the piece is an elevated and rare iteration of the four-digit Datejust series, noting its distinction from the Day-Date model.

Evidence for this section
  • “Dating to circa 1963, this example comes to us in fantastic overall condition.”
  • “This particular piece, for starters, is a solid-gold Datejust, which are rare to begin with, full stop.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber housed within this reference 1601/9?
  • Can the production date be further narrowed through a serial number check?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Datejust Reference 1601/9
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Reference1601/9“Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601/9”
MaterialSolid white gold“sold white gold Datejusts, like the one that we have here”
Dial typeGilt dial“the 'gilt' dial is nicely preserved, with it's rich glossy black color”
Datingcirca 1963“Dating to circa 1963”
BezelFluted white gold“The characteristic 'fluted' white gold bezel remains crisp”
HandsAlpha handset“the correct 'alpha' handset matches beautifully”
CrownWhite gold“retains its correct white gold crown”

Visible details

  • Glossy black gilt dial with central date aperture
  • Fluted white gold bezel
  • Tritium luminous plots at hour markers
  • Alpha-style handset

Research qualifications

  • The exact serial number is not provided in the source text
  • The internal movement condition is not documented in the provided source

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

Consulted source

ساعت مچی Rolex Datejust رفرنس 1601/9 از طلای سفید با صفحه مشکی Gilt

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 8a96e48a7e

Terms in this record

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

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