Amsterdam watch company
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Rolex Datejust Ref.1601 Blue Sigma dial

Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 blue sigma dial.

The watch features a steel case with the iconic fluted white gold bezel and a classic Jubilee bracelet. The deep blue dial displays a beautiful patina around the lume dots. Exposure to sunlight accelerates the aging process of the vintage lacquer and luminous paint, allowing the patina to develop in a unique, organic way. No two dials age in exactly the same way; the patina is the watch’s “fingerprint.” At Amsterdam Watch Company, this natural patina is considered the ultimate proof that the watch has remained in its original condition and has not been restored.

The small “σ” (sigma) marks at the bottom indicate white gold indices, a cherished detail for collectors. Here’s why this symbol was specifically chosen:
The symbol was introduced by APRIOR (Association pour la Promotion Industrielle de l’Or), an association dedicated to promoting the value of gold in Swiss watches. In the 1970s, the watch industry was in crisis due to the rise of inexpensive quartz watches. To demonstrate that a mechanical Swiss watch was a lasting investment, they wanted to emphasize the intrinsic value of the materials.

The Greek letter Sigma (σ) was chosen for a very specific reason:
A universal symbol for gold: At that time, there was no globally recognized symbol that specifically indicated that the indexes (the lines on the dial) and hands were made of solid gold.
No hallmark: An official gold hallmark (such as a Helvetia icon) could only be stamped on the watch case. However, the dial and hands were too fragile for such a mark. The Sigma therefore served as a visual hallmark for these small components.
Scientific appeal: The letter Sigma is often used in mathematics and science to indicate a “sum” or “total.” It exuded a certain precision and authority that befitted the Swiss watch industry.

Equipped with the famous “Cyclops” magnifier above the date at three o’clock.

Thanks to our years of experience, expertise, and above all, incredible passion for detail and vintage watches, you’ll once again find a beautiful piece of working watch history in our shop.

Year

1972
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€ 6.650

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Brand Rolex
Movement Automatic
Model Datejust
Diameter 36 mm
Reference 1601
Bracelet/strap: Steel
Year of production (circa) 1972
Lug Width 20 mm
Material Steel
Set Content Watch only
Crystal Acrylic
Warranty 2 year (AWCo)
Dial color Blue

The Rolex Datejust is one of the most iconic watch designs ever made. We try not to use the term “iconic” too liberally, but it is surely justified here. Launched back in 1945 as the Ref. 4467, the design has been only marginally updated every now and then. And it has looked fresh and current ever since.

When it comes to vintage, two generations of Datejust are particularly popular; the Ref. 16xx and the later five-digit references. The 16xx models were made from the fifties until  roughly 1978 and feature a beautifully dimensional pie-pan dial. Many of these came on folded jubilee bracelets and they did not yet feature a quickset date.

When the reference was updated to five digits around 1978, the pie-pan dial was replaced by a flat dial. The caliber was updated to now feature a quickset date. A decade later, in 1988, a new update saw the introduction of a sapphire crystal. For us, this is where vintage Datejust becomes modern Datejust.

Countless variations can be found. Different bezels, bracelets, dial colors, sizes and materials. The Datejust is one of the most beloved and versatile watches around. If you are looking for a one-watch-collection, that works equally well with shorts as it does with a three-piece suit, the Datejust is probably a pretty safe bet!

At AWCo we put the safety of our shipments upfront at all times. Therefore, we ship all our packages insured.

We strive to promptly handle packages to minimize delays. Delivery times begin from the day of dispatch. While we make every effort to ensure smooth delivery, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by destination customs, local duties, taxes, or lost items during transit.

Certainly, we understand that overloaded mail-order companies can also contribute to potential delays in the delivery process. Despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control may affect shipping times. Rest assured, we remain committed to providing timely service and will work diligently to ensure your order reaches you as promptly as possible. For any inquiries or updates, feel free to reach out to us at info@awco.nl. Your satisfaction is our priority.