1975 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1603 With Blue 'Buckley' Dial Why This Watch Matters Classy and sporty in all the right ways, this Rolex Datejust stands out from the pack with a blue "Buckley" dial and an Oyster bracelet. The Full Story The Submariner dates back to the 1950s, the GMT as well, but no classic Rolex has a richer history than the Datejust. Since 1945, the simple Datejust has graced wrists all over the world, many times over. When it comes to popularity, the steel Oyster case and Jubilee bracelet combination is at the top of the pecking order for its sleek appearance and versatility. When paired with a blue "Buckley" dial, the result is an elegant Rolex for any occasion that will never go out of style. Where the ref. 1603 Datejust stands out from the rest is with its bezel. These engine turned bezels are only found on this reference, and the look breaks away from the more classic fluted or smooth bezels that we see on Datejusts more frequently. The example we have here is from 1975 with a "Buckley" dial. The "Buckley" dial features painted Roman numerals and is rumored to be nicknamed after an avid New York-based Rolex collector and dealer. Not only is this a Buckley, with pronounced Roman numerals and that unmistakable look, but it is blue in color. This slate blue tone is really not found elsewhere in the Rolex catalog and has a unique, stunning look in person. Further differentiating this particular Datejust is a Rolex Oyster bracelet. Where the Jubilee option was more commonly chosen at the dealership back in the day and provides that classic bit of Rolex class, the Oyster is not found on Datejusts all the time and it gives off a very versatile look comparatively. This Datejust is ready to go anywhere, either under a cuff or paired with a T-shirt. The Fine Print Maker: Rolex Model: Datejust Reference: 1603 Year: 1975 Case No: 4046645 Material: Stainless steel Material: Stainless steel Dimensions: 36mm diameter; 12mm thickness Crystal: Plexiglass Lume: Yes, tritium Caliber: Rolex, self-winding, caliber 1575 Bracelet/Strap: Rolex, stainless steel, folded-link Oyster ref. 7836 bracelet with no. 358 end links (Maximum Bracelet Length Approx. 184mm/7.25in) Lug Width: 20mm Box/Papers: No but the watch is accompanied by a Rolex service card. What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: - Blue "Buckley" dial - Oyster bracelet - Engine-turned bezel Things To Know: - Light scratches on case - Dial wear around inner periphery of railroad minute track and lume This Datejust is in overall great, honest vintage condition. The case is in strong condition with scratches. The case appears to have been lightly polished. The back of the lugs have scratches that are likely from the bracelet being taken off and on. Between the lugs show some wear from bracelet rubbing, but the numbers are still visible. The blue dial is in good condition with light patina throughout. Near the periphery, there's some more visible wear on a few areas of the minute track. The lume on the dial has turned to an even, creamy off-white color. The dial shows wear around the lume plots which is common for these blue "Buckley" dials. The hands show some patina. The lume on the hands has patina that's aged to a matching color compared to that of the dial. The Oyster bracelet is fitted with folded links and has some light stretch in between. The clasp is marked "A" and the end-links are marked "358." The case, dial, movement, crown, and bracelet are all signed by Rolex. The crystal has light scratches. The watch is accompanied by a Rolex service card. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
