1974 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref. 1500

Why This Watch Matters

Never underestimate the power of the Rolex Date.

The Full Story

It's time to let the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date shine. It doesn't get the same spotlight that the bigger Datejust receives, but think about it as the under-the-radar version of the Datejust. It's a little bit smaller at 34mm, but it's a simpler, more straightforward design which we all appreciate. Plus, it has the same movement, caliber 1575, as the Datejust from the same era, so yes, it runs the same. 

This example is the classic of the classic with the silver sunburst dial. While the model was offered in various hour marker patterns, this one adds a bit of a twist with a bark finish. The lume on the dial and the hands have turned into a warm and attractive creamy color of the years. And of course, the bubbled cyclops magnifier over the date window. The minor but notable ode to the vintage Rolex is the folded link stainless steel bracelet which is a great medium between a full rivet and the later solid link era. They don't make it like this anymore!

The Fine Print

What We Love And What You Should Know

Things We Love:

- Classic silver dial variation
- Bark finish hour markers
- Folded Oyster steel bracelet

Things To Know:

- Light polish on case
- Light scratches on bracelet 
- Crown later replacement

The watch is overall in good vintage condition with many years left to be enjoyed. The case is likely to have been polished previously, but still retains a good amount of sharpness to the edges. The backside of the lugs show some light scratches. The crown appears to be a later replacement. 

The silver dial is very clean with a crisp sunburst finish. The bark finish hour markers are in excellent condition as well. The hands show light patina. The lume on the dial and on the hands have turned into an attractive custard color overall. 

The Oyster bracelet with the folded links has some light scratches from wear. The bracelet clasp is stamped "3 72" which is in line with the case serial number. The case, dial, and movement are signed. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.