18th Nov, 2024 12:00
Watches and Jewellery
7
A MEN’S EXTREMELY RARE VINTAGE ROLEX 18K GOLD AUTOMATIC WRISTWATCH.
ORIGINAL MALACHITE DIAL DATEJUST WITH ORIGINAL PAPERWORK AND BACK STICKER.
A MEN’S EXTREMELY RARE VINTAGE ROLEX 18K GOLD AUTOMATIC WRISTWATCH.
ORIGINAL MALACHITE DIAL DATEJUST WITH ORIGINAL PAPERWORK AND BACK STICKER.
Brand: Rolex
Model: Datejust with original Malachite dial
Case reference: 1601, serial number 311XXXX
Year: 1974
Movement: Automatic, Cal. 1570, No. D02XXXX
Dial: Green malachite 'T SWISS T" dial, gilt stick hands, gilt centre seconds hand, date aperture at the three o'clock position with a champagne calendar disk and black numerals
Material: 18k yellow gold
Bracelet/Strap: Green generic leather, generic stainless steel buckle
Signed: Dial, movement, case
Dimension: 36mm
Accessories: Original Rolex paperwork from 21/05/1974 rom Hong Kong ELDORADO WATCH CO. LTD orginally sold with a leather strap by Rolex, green Rolex sticker on the back 1601
This Rolex Datejust, reference 1601, is a stunning example of Rolex's unparalleled craftsmanship and timeless design, produced in 1974. Encased in 18k yellow gold and featuring the iconic fluted bezel, this watch epitomizes the luxury and elegance that Rolex is renowned for. However, what truly sets this piece apart is its extraordinary malachite dial—a feature that is as rare as it is captivating.
Malachite, with its vibrant green color and striking, naturally occurring striations, has been used sparingly in the world of fine watchmaking due to its delicate nature and the difficulty in crafting it into a dial. Each malachite dial is unique, with natural patterns that ensure no two dials are alike. Rolex's decision to incorporate malachite into some of its most prestigious models in the 1970s, such as this Datejust, was a bold move that emphasized exclusivity and luxury.
The rarity of finding a malachite dial on a Rolex, particularly in the Datejust line, cannot be overstated. Such dials were produced in very limited quantities, making this watch a true collector's item. The malachite dial on this piece is in outstanding condition, retaining its vibrant color and unique pattern, further enhancing its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Adding to the rarity and value of this timepiece, it comes with its original paperwork, a testament to its authenticity and history. The presence of the original green Rolex sticker on the case back is an extraordinary find, as these stickers often wore off or were removed over time. This detail, along with the watch’s unpolished case, preserving the original lines and sharpness as they left the Rolex factory in 1974, makes this piece particularly special.
Originally sold in Hong Kong, this Rolex Datejust reflects the global reach and appeal of the brand during the 1970s, particularly in the burgeoning luxury markets of Asia. The watch has been meticulously cared for, and its condition today is a rare tribute to the era in which it was crafted.
Estimated at £30,000 - £40,000
A MEN’S EXTREMELY RARE VINTAGE ROLEX 18K GOLD AUTOMATIC WRISTWATCH.
ORIGINAL MALACHITE DIAL DATEJUST WITH ORIGINAL PAPERWORK AND BACK STICKER.
Brand: Rolex
Model: Datejust with original Malachite dial
Case reference: 1601, serial number 311XXXX
Year: 1974
Movement: Automatic, Cal. 1570, No. D02XXXX
Dial: Green malachite 'T SWISS T" dial, gilt stick hands, gilt centre seconds hand, date aperture at the three o'clock position with a champagne calendar disk and black numerals
Material: 18k yellow gold
Bracelet/Strap: Green generic leather, generic stainless steel buckle
Signed: Dial, movement, case
Dimension: 36mm
Accessories: Original Rolex paperwork from 21/05/1974 rom Hong Kong ELDORADO WATCH CO. LTD orginally sold with a leather strap by Rolex, green Rolex sticker on the back 1601
This Rolex Datejust, reference 1601, is a stunning example of Rolex's unparalleled craftsmanship and timeless design, produced in 1974. Encased in 18k yellow gold and featuring the iconic fluted bezel, this watch epitomizes the luxury and elegance that Rolex is renowned for. However, what truly sets this piece apart is its extraordinary malachite dial—a feature that is as rare as it is captivating.
Malachite, with its vibrant green color and striking, naturally occurring striations, has been used sparingly in the world of fine watchmaking due to its delicate nature and the difficulty in crafting it into a dial. Each malachite dial is unique, with natural patterns that ensure no two dials are alike. Rolex's decision to incorporate malachite into some of its most prestigious models in the 1970s, such as this Datejust, was a bold move that emphasized exclusivity and luxury.
The rarity of finding a malachite dial on a Rolex, particularly in the Datejust line, cannot be overstated. Such dials were produced in very limited quantities, making this watch a true collector's item. The malachite dial on this piece is in outstanding condition, retaining its vibrant color and unique pattern, further enhancing its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Adding to the rarity and value of this timepiece, it comes with its original paperwork, a testament to its authenticity and history. The presence of the original green Rolex sticker on the case back is an extraordinary find, as these stickers often wore off or were removed over time. This detail, along with the watch’s unpolished case, preserving the original lines and sharpness as they left the Rolex factory in 1974, makes this piece particularly special.
Originally sold in Hong Kong, this Rolex Datejust reflects the global reach and appeal of the brand during the 1970s, particularly in the burgeoning luxury markets of Asia. The watch has been meticulously cared for, and its condition today is a rare tribute to the era in which it was crafted.
Auction: Watches and Jewellery, 18th Nov, 2024
Azca Auctions proudly presents an exquisite Watches and Jewellery Auction on 18th of November. This remarkable event features 145 lots, ranging from iconic timepieces like the Omega, Speedmaster, Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox... to rare, limited-edition watches and high-end jewellery by Jacob & Co such as a unique 18k rose gold and black diamond beads glove from the Touch Collection. Highlights include sought-after Rolex models, from the Red Submariner to the famous GMT Pepsi, to unique Rolex stone dials in malachite, ferrite and stella, as well as a limited edition Patek Philippe Grand Complication Celestial. With offerings for all budgets, this auction is a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
For any specific query, please do not hesitate to contact our Head of Department, Tomas Aznar at tomas@azcaauctions.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
Viewing
Viewing will take place at the following address:
Azca Auctions
188 Hammersmith Road
London, W6 7DJ
