Rolex - Datejust - 1603 - Men - 1967

Now available at auction from Second Vintage

A quintessential 1960s Rolex Datejust with the signature engine-turned bezel. The classic silver sunburst dial with its original 'T SWISS T' tritium markings pairs perfectly with the stainless steel engine-turned bezel specific to the reference 1603, while the highly regarded Rolex caliber 1570 automatic movement provides exceptional mechanical appeal.

Brand: Rolex
Model: Datejust
Reference Number: 1603
Movement: Automatic, Rolex caliber 1570, 26 jewels
Dial: Silver sunburst with applied faceted baton indices
Case Size: 36mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless steel
Production Year: 1967
Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: +6+8s/day, performing remarkably well.

Dial and Hands
The dial presents a classic silver sunburst finish, accented by applied faceted baton indices. Original tritium lume plots remain present at the outer edges of the indices, corresponding accurately with the 'T SWISS T' designation at the bottom. The dial shows minor spotting and visible age-related patina, particularly near the center and edges, giving it an attractive vintage character with light, even aging. The baton-style hands feature luminous inserts and display slight oxidation and aging on both the metal surfaces and the lume, matching the dial's patina for an honest, original appearance.

Case and Crystal
The stainless steel case features brushed lugs and polished flanks, retaining its preserved overall geometry alongside honest vintage wear. It shows moderate scratches and signs of wear consistent with its age. Clear reference and partial serial engravings remain visible between the lugs. The case is fitted with the distinctive stainless steel engine-turned bezel specific to the reference 1603, displaying well-defined ridges alongside normal signs of wear. The signed crown features the Rolex coronet and a single line indicating a steel Twinlock crown, with moderate wear visible on the knurling. The domed acrylic crystal includes the signature cyclops date magnifier at three o'clock and shows light surface scratches under direct light.

Movement
Inside is the highly regarded Rolex caliber 1570 automatic movement. The movement displays a clean overall appearance with clear factory engravings noting 26 jewels and adjustments to five positions and temperature. The rotor and bridges show typical finishing. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher records a rate of +6+8s/day.

Strap
The watch is fitted with a standard black leather strap in good condition, featuring an alligator or crocodile pattern and contrasting stitching on the reverse side. It is secured by a generic steel buckle.

Condition
Good vintage condition. Supported by the recorded timegrapher result, the movement is performing very strongly. The stainless steel case retains its overall geometry but shows moderate scratches and age-appropriate wear, while the engine-turned bezel maintains well-defined ridges. The silver sunburst dial exhibits minor spotting and attractive patina around the center and edges, with matching oxidation on the original baton hands. The acrylic crystal bears light surface scratches, and the signed crown shows moderate wear to its knurling.

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

Remarks
A classic 1960s Rolex Datejust with the signature engine-turned bezel. The combination of the classic silver sunburst dial, the character-rich tritium patina, and the highly regarded caliber 1570 movement makes this a highly appealing find. Its strong timekeeping performance and documented 1967 production year add tremendous mechanical and historical appeal for any collector.

History
The Rolex Datejust reference 1603 is a widely produced and popular vintage model, appreciated for its classic proportions and distinctive aesthetic. It is distinguished by its stainless steel engine-turned bezel, which differentiates it from the fluted bezels found on other variations within the family. Powered by the robust caliber 1570, this era of the Datejust represents a significant period in the brand's mid-century production, offering enduring design that remains highly relevant today.

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-0010