The Rolex Datejust, a cornerstone of the brand's enduring success, boasts a rich history spanning decades. Within that history, certain reference numbers hold a special place, representing significant milestones in the evolution of the design, functionality, and overall prestige of the watch. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 1501, a model produced primarily during the 1950s and into the early 1960s, is precisely such a watch. This review delves deep into the nuances of the 1501, exploring its historical context, design features, movement, and overall desirability in the current collector's market.
The Date ref. 15XX series, of which the 1501 is a key member, followed the original Datejust, the ref. 6534. This wasn't a revolutionary leap forward, but rather a carefully considered evolution, typical of Rolex's incremental approach to improvement. While the underlying philosophy remained consistent – offering a robust, reliable, and elegant timepiece – the 1501 introduced subtle yet significant changes that reflected advancements in both horological technology and design aesthetics. The primary reason for the transition from the 6534 to the 15XX series, as with most Rolex updates, was the pursuit of enhanced reliability and manufacturing efficiency. Rolex, even then, was relentlessly focused on perfecting its craft, constantly seeking to improve existing models, not just to create something “new,” but to refine what already worked exceptionally well.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1501: A Closer Look at the Design
The Rolex 1501 Oyster Perpetual Date immediately presents itself as a classic. Its 36mm case, typical for the era, sits comfortably on the wrist, offering a timeless elegance that transcends fleeting fashion trends. The case, crafted from stainless steel, is a testament to Rolex's commitment to durability. Its characteristically robust construction, with its screw-down crown and caseback, ensured the watch's water resistance, a hallmark of the Oyster case design. This water resistance, coupled with the scratch-resistant acrylic crystal, provided a level of protection uncommon in watches of its time.
The dial of the 1501 is a key element of its appeal. While variations exist, from simple baton markers to more ornate indices, the dials often showcase a refined simplicity. The applied indices, typically in gold, add a touch of luxury, complementing the clean lines of the case. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, is a hallmark feature of the Datejust line, a practical addition that enhances the watch's functionality. The hands, typically dauphine style, contribute to the overall aesthetic harmony, perfectly complementing the dial markers. Various dial colors were offered, including silver, champagne, black, and even rare examples with unusual colors, adding to the collectibility of specific examples. These variations in dial color and index style contribute to the rich tapestry of 1501 variations found today.
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