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 1500 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 Dial, which is extremely pleasing to the eye. It has a wonderful linen finish that glistens in the Sunlight. This dial is commonly referred to as a "Shantung" Dial but is also known as a "Mosaic" Dial.
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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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The excellent quality Rolex Calibre 1570 beats away strongly inside a chunky 14k Yellow Gold Case. The Case has import marks for London 1973. The Serial is marked inside the Caseback and inside the Lugs, these Serials also date to 1973.
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The Specs
Age: c.1973.
Reference: 1500.
Serial Number: 35XXXXX
Movement: Automatic with Hacking Seconds and Date Function.
Calibre: 1570.
Timekeeping: Keeping Excellent Time.
Service History: Fully Serviced by John Senior June 2025.
Dial: Original Rolex Silver Shantung Factory Dial.
Case: 14k Gold.
Case Size: 34mm.
The Specs
Age: c.1973.
Reference: 1500.
Serial Number: 35XXXXX
Movement: Automatic with Hacking Seconds and Date Function.
Calibre: 1570.
Timekeeping: Keeping Excellent Time.
Service History: Fully Serviced by John Senior June 2025.
Dial: Original Rolex Silver Shantung Factory Dial.
Case: 14k Gold.
Case Size: 34mm.
Bezel: Solid.
Water Resistant?: No.
Hands: Original Handset.
Crystal: Original.
Crown: Original.
Strap/Bracelet: On a new 19mm Hirsch Black Lizard Strap with Gold Plated Buckle.
Lug Width: 19mm
Hands: Original Handset.
Crystal: Original.
Crown: Original.
Strap/Bracelet: On a new 19mm Hirsch Black Lizard Strap with Gold Plated Buckle.
Lug Width: 19mm
Getting Acquainted
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Bits that stand out:
- Beautiful Shantung Dial.
- All Original.
- 14K Gold Case.
- A real head turner.
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Nitty Gritty:
-Nothing really, the Case may have been previously lightly polished.
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Nitty Gritty:
-Nothing really, the Case may have been previously lightly polished.
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Overall the Shantung is in Lovely Vintage condition.
The Case has some small marks but nothing major at all.
Crown screws down nicely and tightly.
Crystal is Original.
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.