1970 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1603 With Grey Dial Why This Watch Matters One of the best daily watches the vintage market has to offer, the Datejust is classy and sporty in all the right ways. The Full Story The Datejust has remained Rolex’s mainstay model since the brand introduced it in 1945. 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. 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 Rolex USA Jubilee bracelet. These specific Jubilee examples feature a unique construction and a very unique feeling on the wrist. The feel wearing this Rolex is unmistakably vintage and extremely comfortable. The dial here is one we are constantly searching for on the vintage market. With a steely grey finish and white text that both pop off the surface at some angles and "ghosts" away into obscurity at other angles, collectors have been known to refer to this combination as a "ghost" dial. The Fine Print Maker: Rolex Model: Datejust Reference: 1603 Year: 1970 Case No: 2460268 Material: Stainless steel Dimensions: 36mm diameter; 12mm thickness Crystal: Plexiglass Lume: Yes, tritium Caliber: Rolex, self-winding, caliber 1575 Bracelet/Strap: Rolex, stainless steel, USA Jubilee bracelet with 50 end links (Approximate max wrist size 8in / 203mm) Lug Width: 20mm Box/Papers: No What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: - Engine turned bezel - Beautiful grey dial with white text - Rolex USA Jubilee bracelet Things To Know: - Scratches on case - Bracelet has some stretch This Datejust is in overall great, honest vintage condition. The case is in strong condition with scratches and some light nicks. 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 the bracelet rubbing, but the numbers are still visible. The grey pie-pan dial is in great condition with a 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 buttery yellow color. The hands show some patina. The lume on the hands and on the dial match well and look nice on the grey background. The Jubilee bracelet is in good condition with scratches and some stretch. The clasp is marked "USA" and the end-links are marked "50." The inside caseback is marked "II.70," indicating it was produced in the second quarter of 1970, matching the case serial number well. 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.
