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
An ideal companion for boardroom meetings and evening engagements, this 1973 Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 in stainless steel brings understated polish to any look. Its 36mm case, fluted bezel and blue dial on a Jubilee bracelet suit both formal attire and smart-casual weekends, powered by an automatic movement.
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 is this Rolex Datejust 36mm Ref. 1601 from 1973? A: A classic vintage Datejust featuring a 36mm stainless steel Oyster case, a fluted white‑gold bezel, a blue dial with date and Cyclops lens, and an automatic movement on a Jubilee bracelet. It embodies the iconic Datejust look from the early 1970s.
Q: Which movement does it use, and does it have a Quickset date? A: Period‑correct Ref. 1601 models are typically powered by the Rolex Calibre 1575 (the date version of the 1570 family). It is non‑Quickset, so the date advances by moving the hands past midnight. Early‑1970s examples commonly include hacking seconds for precise time‑setting.
Q: Is the crystal acrylic or sapphire? A: Vintage Datejust 1601 models were originally fitted with acrylic (plexiglass) crystals rather than sapphire. Acrylic offers warm vintage optics and can be lightly polished to reduce fine marks, though it scratches more easily than sapphire.
Q: What is the bezel made of? A: On steel 1601 models, the fluted bezel is 18‑carat white gold. This contrast of steel case and white‑gold bezel is a hallmark of the reference.
Q: Is it water‑resistant? A: The Oyster case was originally rated for everyday water resistance (up to 100 metres when new). As this is a vintage watch, current water resistance cannot be guaranteed without a recent pressure test. We recommend treating it as splash‑resistant only and keeping it away from swimming or showering.
Q: How do I set the time and date on a non‑Quickset Datejust? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1 is for manual winding. Pull to the time‑setting position and advance the hands past midnight to change the date. Repeat for multiple days. Avoid changing the date manually between about 9 pm and 3 am, and always screw the crown back down firmly after setting.
Q: Will it fit my wrist? A: This watch is currently sized to fit a wrist circumference of up to 20 cm. The Jubilee bracelet can be adjusted smaller by removing links; additional links to increase size may be sourced separately if needed.
Q: What is included with the purchase and is there a warranty? A: This piece is listed as “no accessories,” so it does not include the original box or papers. It is authenticated by A Retro Tale and supplied in secure packaging, with a 12‑month movement warranty for your peace of mind.
Q: What is the condition of this specific watch? A: It is graded Very Good overall. Expect light traces of wear consistent with age, with noted scratches on the case, case back and bracelet; the movement is described as Very Good with light signs of use.
Q: Can I change the bracelet or fit straps? A: Yes. The 36mm Datejust has a 20mm lug width, so period‑correct Jubilee or Oyster bracelets and many quality leather straps will fit. Have strap changes performed carefully to avoid scratching the lugs.
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 case and Jubilee bracelet
• Fluted bezel
• Blue dial with date display
• Automatic movement
• Folding clasp closure
• Vintage
