We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence | About us
Ideal for boardroom meetings or evening cocktails, this vintage 1972 Rolex Datejust 36mm in stainless steel and yellow gold, with a blue dial and fluted bezel, adds timeless refinement to tailored and smart-casual looks.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What defines the Rolex Datejust 36mm Ref. 1601 (1972)? A: This is a quintessential two‑tone Datejust featuring a 36mm stainless steel and 18ct yellow gold Oyster case, a fluted yellow‑gold bezel, a blue dial with date and Cyclops magnifier, and the comfortable five‑link Jubilee bracelet. It is powered by an automatic movement and is a true vintage piece from 1972.
Q: Which movement powers this watch? A: The Ref. 1601 from this era is fitted with Rolex’s Calibre 1575 (15xx series) automatic chronometer. It is robust, reliable, and features a non‑quickset date mechanism typical of early 1970s Datejust models.
Q: Does it have a Quickset date function? A: No. The date is non‑quickset on the 1601. To change the date, unscrew the crown, pull it to the time‑setting position, and advance the hands past midnight until the desired date is reached. Avoid adjusting the date between 9 pm and 3 am to protect the mechanism, and always screw the crown down firmly afterwards.
Q: Is the crystal acrylic or sapphire? A: Period‑correct acrylic (plexiglass) with the Cyclops magnifier. Acrylic gives a warm vintage look and light marks can often be polished out; it is more prone to scratches than modern sapphire.
Q: Is the watch water‑resistant? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres. However, as with all vintage watches, we cannot guarantee water resistance without a current pressure test. We recommend treating it as splash‑resistant only and avoiding swimming or showering.
Q: What is the condition of this specific piece? A: Rated Very Good with light traces of use. There are surface scratches on the case, case back, and bracelet consistent with age, as noted in the listing.
Q: Will the watch fit my wrist? A: This watch is sized to fit a wrist circumference of up to 19.5 cm. The Jubilee bracelet can be adjusted by removing links; please note no additional links are included with this listing.
Q: What is the lug width and can I change straps? A: The lug width is 20mm, so a wide range of 20mm straps will fit if you wish to change the look. The Jubilee bracelet offers jewellery‑like comfort for daily wear.
Q: What is included with the purchase? A: This item is sold as the watch only (“no accessories”), without original box or papers. It is covered by A Retro Tale’s authenticity guarantee, secure packaging and a 12‑month movement warranty.
Q: How often should this vintage Rolex be serviced? A: For vintage 15xx‑series movements, a routine service every 5–7 years is generally recommended, or sooner if timekeeping deviates. After any service, have gaskets checked and the water resistance tested.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
/ Datejust
5 183 £
50%
off retail price
• Stainless steel and yellow gold case, 36mm
• Blue dial with a date display
• Fluted bezel
• Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
• Automatic movement
• Vintage
