1968 Rolex Datejust 36 1601 - Stainless Steel & 18K Yellow Gold Bezel, Silver Dial
The Archetype Of The Modern Dress Watch
The reference 1601 is the watch that defined the Rolex Datejust for an entire generation. It established the template for what a versatile luxury watch could be, blending a robust stainless steel case with the elegance of a solid 18-karat yellow gold fluted bezel. This combination became an industry standard. More than fifty years later, the design remains one of the most recognizable and enduring in watchmaking history. It is the foundation of the Rolex catalog for a reason.
A Classic Combination On Leather
This example from 1968 pairs the classic two-tone look with a clean silver dial featuring a subtle vertical brushing. By placing this configuration on a leather strap instead of the more common Jubilee bracelet, the watch takes on a slightly more understated and traditional character. It highlights the clean lines of the case and the sharp fluting of the gold bezel, making it an incredibly versatile piece.
Honest And Well-Preserved
The piece is in overall good condition. The stainless steel case is in good condition, showing honest wear consistent with a watch of its age and appears to be unpolished. The lugs remain well-defined. The 18-karat yellow gold bezel is sharp, and the silver dial is clean. The watch presents as a well-preserved and authentic example of this classic reference. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Perfect Daily Vintage Piece
This is the ideal choice for someone looking for a single vintage watch that can do everything. The 36mm case is perfectly proportioned for daily wear, and the combination of steel and gold works in almost any setting. On a leather strap, it feels grounded and less formal than its bracelet-equipped counterparts. It is a confident, classic, and endlessly wearable piece of Rolex history.
At Danny's Vintage Watches, we rigorously authenticate and inspect every watch to guarantee both its authenticity and exceptional quality. Your complete satisfaction is our utmost priority. We are dedicated to guiding you to the ideal timepiece that meets your desires. Should you have any inquiries, our team is ready to provide swift and comprehensive assistance.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
To get in contact directly with the team send us a text for the quickest response! 917-887-1584
If you are interested in trading or selling your watch please click here, and fill the form
Payments
We are committed to providing a secure and seamless payment experience. Our site features a built-in payment processor that accepts most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). U.S. residents also have the option to pay via Zelle. If you prefer to pay via bank wire, which will be slightly cheaper, please send a text to 917-887-1584 so we can reserve the item you wish to purchase.
Shipping
We ship via FedEx, USPS, UPS, and DHL, depending on the item's value and your location. All domestic shipments are fully insured.
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What Our Clients Say About Us
I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)
Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.
This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….
Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!