1964 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1603 Why This Watch Matters Nothing runs like a Deere and nothing wears like a Datejust on Jubilee. The Full Story Rolex has some pretty iconic models in the catalog. The Submariner dates back to the 1950s, the GMT as well, but no classic Rolex has a richer history than the plain Jane Rollie, 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 silver pie-pan 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 often. Beyond the less common bezel, the overall look of this piece is most influenced by the U.S.A-made Jubilee bracelet. The feel wearing this Rolex is unmistakably vintage and extremely comfortable as a result of this true vintage bracelet. We especially love the alpha handset on this watch, a feature that is uncommon in the grand scheme of ref. 1603s – only found on early examples. Another aspect of note is the outer portion of the dial which is recessed or stepped-down for the minute track. This step adds an additional dimension to the watch that comes through exponentially in the overall look on the wrist. The Fine Print Maker: Rolex Model: Datejust Reference: 1603 Year: 1964 Case No: 1088462 Material: Stainless steel Dimensions: 36mm diameter; 12mm thickness Crystal: Plexiglass Lume: Yes, tritium Caliber: Rolex, self-winding, caliber 1575 Bracelet/Strap: Rolex, stainless steel, U.S.A. Jubilee bracelet (Approximate max wrist size 7.25in / 184mm) Lug Width: 20mm Box/Papers: No What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: - Alpha handset - "Pie pan" dial with outer step - Engine turned bezel - Rolex U.S.A. Jubilee bracelet Things To Know: - Scratches on case and bracelet - Lume in hands has been reapplied This Datejust is in overall very good condition. The case is in good condition with scratches. The case appears to have been 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 the bracelet rubbing, but the numbers are still visible. The silver pie-pan dial is in good condition with a patina throughout and some overall wear. Near the periphery, there's some more visible wear on a few areas in the minute track. The lume on the dial shows degradation on some of the plots, namely at one, three, and nine o'clock, and has aged to a creamy tone. The hands show some patina. The lume on the hands has been reapplied at some point and is aged to an off-white color. The U.S.A. Jubilee bracelet is fitted with solid links and has some stretch in between. The inside caseback is stamped "I.64," indicating a first quarter of 1964 production which matches the case serial. The case, dial, movement, crown, and bracelet are signed by Rolex. The crystal has light scratches. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
