Brand
Rolex
Warranty
2 year (AWCo)
Year of production (circa)
1974
SOLD
Rolex Date Ref. 1500 Black Sigma dial
With the invention of quartz timekeeping, Swiss watchmakers were forced to find ways to promote classical mechanical watchmaking. With gold prices quintupling in the early seventies, a number of watch brands decided to deploy a hallmark to indicate the use of the precious metal on their dials. The aim was to boost the perceived value of their traditional Swiss product. And so the Sigma dial was born.
Two Greek Sigma letters were positioned beside the T Swiss T (for Tritium lume) indication at the bottom of the dial. These marks show that the indices and hands are made out of solid gold. In this case yellow gold on a matte black dial. A seriously cool combination on this Rolex Date Ref. 1500.
While these dials and hands are often found on steel Dates, the question is whether they ever left the Rolex factory this way. While it was common for a lot of brands to use yellow gold on the dial of steel watches, the consensus among Rolex connoisseurs seems to be that the indices and hands should match the case and/or bezel. This means it could be a swap by the original jeweler. Back in the days, it wasn’t uncommon to ask for adaptations like a dial swap or a different bracelet. Or it could have been modified later in its life.
However this match came to be, it is period-correct and extremely attractive. The cool steel and warm gold balance each other out in a stunning manner.
Year
1974SOLD
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All of our vintage watches have been carefully selected for you. Each watch is meticulously inspected on condition and originality. Furthermore, our watches receive a full service by our highly skilled and qualified watchmakers before hitting the store, so you can wear your special find with confidence. A statement we back up with a 2-year warranty.
With over two decades of experience in vintage watches, we have developed an eye for great quality and great stories. Because we believe every vintage watch tells a story through its unique design, history and patina. A vintage watch is a time-traveling device in that sense. A practical item for daily use, that connects us to something bigger than ourselves at the same time. In an age of single-use goods and quick consumption, a mechanical marvel that is designed to last for generations is quite simply a fantastic thing to have in your life.
At AWCo, we are a diverse team of watch experts, each with their own niche interests and expertise. From history buffs to tech geeks and style gurus, we all approach this beautiful passion from different angles. We operate under the mantra that every vintage watch is unique and so is every client. We get a massive thrill out of helping you find that one special watch that perfectly suits your personality, style and budget. To see you staring at your wrist with a big smile on your face, is what we get out of bed for.
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Dear Watch enthusiast,
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We are sorry for the inconvenience.