The versatile and timeless Rolex Datejust 36 is a grail to many, especially in this linen and sigma dial configuration. Model reference 1601.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the serial number between the bottom lugs we can accurately date this watch to being made in 1977.
CONDITION
The Datejust 36 has just celebrated it’s eightieth anniversary – many watch companies don’t make 80 years, so for one model it is extraordinary. But there is a reason for the longevity – it is close to the perfect watch, and it is available in so many different variations that it doesn’t ever seem dated. Reference 1601 has the classic fluted bezel, in white gold. It also has the open 6 and 9 on the date wheel, and the stepped dial. But on this particular watch it is elevated by being both a linen pattern dial, but also a sigma dial. Sigma dials were used by the top Swiss companies to signify that materials used on the dial, such as the hands and hour markers, were all precious metals and that no corners has been cut. You can see the Sigma letter (σ) either side of the T SWISS T at the foot of the dial, and the idea was that while many companies were cutting corners during the quartz crisis, companies using the sigma dials were not. Furthermore the condition is excellent. The case hasn’t been heavily polished at any point – the lug tips are still square and not pointy like over polished watches. There are some marks on the case, particularly on the non crown side. The movement is all running well, and the signed crown screws down nicely. The leather strap is new, and could be swapped for a different colour or material if preferred. The watch is signed on the dial, case, movement, crown and buckle.
This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
This watch has been checked against the Watch Register and has not been reported as lost, stolen or implicated in fraud, and a copy of that certificate will also be included.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 38.5 mm
Width without crown 35.7 mm
Between lugs 20 mm
Lug to lug length 425. mm
Case Thickness 12.3 mm
All sizes are approximate. The watch is photographed on a wrist of 190mm/7.5 inches.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
From 1st September 2021 we will be planting a tree for every watch we sell, working with the International Tree Foundation (Est 1922) to make this business positive on carbon. By buying anything pre owned you are effectively reusing what already exists, but this takes it further and makes us feel good.
