The Watch
The Rolex Date model is a bit more under-the-radar than the iconic Datejust models, but it’s not to be underestimated. This reference 1501 is a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date with a bit more character, thanks to the engine-turned bezel that adds a bit of pizzazz to the otherwise quietly elegant design.
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Perhaps the jewel in the crown of this wonderful OP, is the Blue Radial Dial, which is extremely pleasing to the eye. The minute markers aka minute track extends into the center of the Dial much further than normally seen on similar references. This dial is commonly referred to as the Radial Dial and the Dial itself is very uncommon and was produced in very limited quantities by Rolex.
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OPs have been long overlooked in the vintage Rolex world but it is examples like this one that have even the most seasoned collectors turning their heads.
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This guy comes on the original fold-link Oyster bracelet bracelet ref 7835 with 257 end links. The clasp dates to 1971.
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The Specs
Age: c.1971.
Reference: 1501.
Serial Number: 28XXXXX
Movement: Automatic with Hacking Seconds and Date Function.
Calibre: 1570.
Timekeeping: Keeping Excellent Time.
Service History: Serviced 2024.
Dial: Original Rolex Blue Radial Factory Dial.
Case: All Stainless Steel.
Case Size: 34mm.
The Specs
Age: c.1971.
Reference: 1501.
Serial Number: 28XXXXX
Movement: Automatic with Hacking Seconds and Date Function.
Calibre: 1570.
Timekeeping: Keeping Excellent Time.
Service History: Serviced 2024.
Dial: Original Rolex Blue Radial Factory Dial.
Case: All Stainless Steel.
Case Size: 34mm.
Bezel: Wonderful Engine Turned Bezel.
Water Resistant?: No.
Hands: Original Handset.
Crystal: Original.
Crown: Original.
Strap/Bracelet: Rolex fold-link Oyster bracelet bracelet ref 7835 with 257 end links. The clasp is stamped for 1971. The Bracelet measures approx 7.25 fit max with no spare links.
Lug Width: 19mm
Hands: Original Handset.
Crystal: Original.
Crown: Original.
Strap/Bracelet: Rolex fold-link Oyster bracelet bracelet ref 7835 with 257 end links. The clasp is stamped for 1971. The Bracelet measures approx 7.25 fit max with no spare links.
Lug Width: 19mm
Getting Acquainted
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Bits that stand out:
- Uncommon Blue Radial Dial.
- All Original.
- Engine Turned Bezel.
- A real head turner.
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Nitty Gritty:
-We believe the Case and Bracelet to be brilliantly refinished at some stage.
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Nitty Gritty:
-We believe the Case and Bracelet to be brilliantly refinished at some stage.
-Minor Marks and Scratches to the Case, Crystal and Bracelet.
- Hardly a bad thing, in fact it's quite cool, the Tritium dots have slightly burned the dial around where the dots are situated.
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Overall the Radial is in Lovely Vintage condition.
The Case and Bracelet have some small marks but nothing major at all.
We believe the Case and Bracelet has been brilliantly refinished at some stage.
Crown screws down nicely and tightly.
Crystal is Original and has some Scratches.
The Dial is in lovely Vintage Order and looks absolutely fantastic on the Wrist.
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Fantastic Uncommon Rolex Investment.
Fantastic Uncommon Rolex Investment.