Rolex - Datejust - No reserve price - 1603 - Men - 1969

Now available at auction from Second Vintage

Classic vintage Datejust 1603 with a desirable sigma dial. This 1969 example stands out with its exceptionally clean silver sunburst finish and beautiful lume plots that have aged to a warm, even yellow-orange patina.

Brand: Rolex
Model: Oyster Perpetual Datejust
Reference Number: 1603
Serial Number: 1977619
Movement: Automatic, caliber 1570, 26 jewels
Dial: Silver sunburst sigma dial
Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless steel
Production Year: 1969
Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: -1-3s/day, performing remarkably well.

Dial and Hands
The silver sunburst dial is exceptionally clean, presenting a beautiful surface with no significant spotting or damage visible. It is a highly desirable sigma dial, clearly marked 'O T SWISS T O' at the bottom edge. The applied stick indices are complemented by luminous plots that have aged to a warm, even yellow-orange patina. The silver-tone stick hands match the dial plots well, displaying light oxidation and aging visible under magnification, retaining their original matching condition.

Case and Crystal
The 36 mm stainless steel case displays honest vintage wear, with moderate scratches and handling marks consistent with its age. The brushed finish on the lugs remains visible but has softened over time, while the engravings between the lugs remain clearly legible. It is fitted with the classic engine-turned stainless steel bezel, which gives the reference its textured appearance; the bezel edges show normal softening from wear and age. The watch features a signed Rolex crown bearing the coronet and a line indicating a steel Twinlock, showing normal handling wear. The domed acrylic crystal is clear, featuring the signature cyclops date magnifier with no major scratches, cracks, or chips visible.

Movement
Powering the watch is the chronometer-grade Rolex caliber 1570 automatic movement, featuring 26 jewels and adjusted to five positions and temperature. The movement presents a clean overall appearance, with the rotor and bridges showing a bright finish alongside the distinctive purple reversing wheels. There is no visible corrosion, oxidation, or damage. The timegrapher records a rate of -1-3s/day. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece.

Strap
The watch is fitted with its original signed Rolex Jubilee bracelet in stainless steel. The clasp is stamped 62510 H with a date code of S T8, and the endlinks are stamped 55. The bracelet displays classic Jubilee character with moderate stretch visible when held horizontally, along with surface scratches present on the clasp and links. It accommodates a maximum wrist size of 18 cm.

Condition
Good vintage condition. The stainless steel case and engine-turned bezel show moderate scratches, handling wear, and softened edges consistent with its 1969 production. The silver sunburst sigma dial is excellently preserved, featuring beautifully aged luminous plots and matching hands that show light oxidation. The domed acrylic crystal is clear and free of major flaws. The original signed Jubilee bracelet exhibits moderate stretch and surface scratching. Supported by the recorded timegrapher result, the movement is performing very strongly.

Dimensions
The case measures 36 mm in diameter (excluding the crown).

Remarks
This Rolex Datejust reference 1603 offers an incredibly attractive configuration with its warm patina and clean sigma dial. The combination of the engine-turned bezel and the classic Jubilee bracelet makes it an appealing vintage example.

History
The Rolex Datejust reference 1603 is distinguished by its stainless steel engine-turned bezel, giving it a textured and utilitarian appearance. With its classic 36 mm case diameter, it remains an enduring standard for a vintage dress watch. The model is powered by the Rolex caliber 1570, a chronometer-grade automatic movement highly regarded by collectors for its reliability. This era of the Datejust typically features an acrylic crystal and the signature Cyclops date magnifier, cementing its recognizable profile.

Payment and Shipping
Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase.
Your watch will be professionally and securely packaged, then shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind.
We use fast express shipping, with typical delivery within 1–4 business days, depending on the destination.
Please note that vintage watches may show minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections, which are considered normal for watches of this age.
We kindly ask you to review all photos carefully before bidding. We photograph each watch from multiple angles to provide the most accurate representation possible, and the photos form an important part of the description.
The timegrapher assessment if provided is seen as an indication of the movement’s condition under fully wound testing conditions. As with all vintage watches, results may vary in daily use.
If you have any concerns regarding functionality or defects after delivery, please contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you.
As with all used watches, water resistance is not guaranteed.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends.

/ Second Vintage

SKU: ROL-OPD-0004