Rolex White Gold Onyx Datejust Ref. 1601 One of Five Known Examples
Brand: Rolex
Model: Datejust
Reference: 1601
Year: 1976/77
Material: 18k WG
Dial Color: Onyx
Dimensions: 36 mm
Watch Movement: Self-Winding
Bracelet/Strap: White Gold Bracelet
Box/Paper: Watch Only
Condition: Excellent Condition with Very Minor Wear
SKU: 212690
The Datejust is among Rolexs most familiar designs, yet this particular configuration sits at the opposite end of the spectrum. Cased entirely in white gold and fitted with a natural onyx dial, this reference 1601 is one of just five examples presently known, transforming an otherwise understated model into something exceptionally rare.
White-gold examples of the reference 1601 were produced in extremely small numbers compared with their steel and yellow-gold counterparts. The present watch carries a 5.13 million serial number, placing its production circa 1976; notably, Phillips has documented another white-gold Ref. 1601 with 5.133 million case number as dating to approximately the same year.
The defining feature is its remarkable black onyx dial. Devoid of conventional hour markers, the polished stone creates an uninterrupted, almost mirror-like surface, interrupted only by the applied Rolex coronet, hands, printed signature and date aperture. Natural stone dials are inherently fragile, making their survival particularly dependent on careful handling. This example retains its original onyx dial in exceptional condition, remaining clean and, importantly, free of cracks.
The 36mm white-gold Oyster case is similarly well preserved, retaining strong proportions and crisp hallmarks, while the matching white-gold Jubilee bracelet completes the monochromatic appearance. The result is a watch whose rarity is almost entirely concealed: from a distance, a restrained vintage Datejust; on closer inspection, one of the most unusual configurations of the reference known to exist.
With its original stone dial, white-gold case and bracelet, and exceptional state of preservation, this Ref. 1601 represents a particularly compelling expression of Rolexs more discreet experimentation during the 1970s.
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