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1978 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1503 - 14K Yellow Gold Champagne Dial

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The Purest Form Of Rolex, In Solid Gold
The Oyster Perpetual is the foundation from which every other Rolex model descended. It combines the brand's two most important innovations, the waterproof Oyster case and the self-winding Perpetual rotor, into a single, clean design. This reference 1503 takes that pure formula and renders it in solid 14K yellow gold, transforming a benchmark of utility into an object of understated luxury. It is the classic Rolex proposition, elevated.
A Classic And Personal Timepiece
This example from 1978 channels the core aesthetic of its era. The 34mm case is a classic size that wears comfortably and avoids the oversized trend, making it a versatile choice decades after its production. Paired with the quintessential fluted bezel and a clean champagne stick dial, it is an icon of mid-century design. The caseback carries an engraving, adding a layer of personal history to the watch that cannot be replicated.
An Honest Example From Its Era
The overall condition is good. The 14K yellow gold case shows signs of use consistent with a watch of its age, appears unpolished, and features a personal engraving on the caseback. The champagne dial is clean, and the watch is fitted to a brown leather strap. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
Versatility In Yellow Gold
This watch is for the person who understands that true luxury does not need to shout. The combination of a solid gold case on a leather strap is timeless, equally at home with a suit as it is on the weekend. It offers the reliability and heritage of a Rolex in a format that feels more personal and refined than the more common steel sport models. This is a confident and classic choice that works in any setting.
Key Specs
Reference: 1503
Model: Oyster Perpetual Date
Year: 1978
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 34mm
Bezel: Fluted
Strap: Brown Leather
Bracelet Length: Fits 6.5-7.75in
Dial: Champagne Stick
Metal: 14K Yellow Gold
Weight: 43.8g
SKU: 527

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
4 months ago

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)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

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.

Zee06
2 months ago

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….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

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!!!