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 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 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.
This vintage Rolex Datejust 36mm Ref. 1601 'Wide Boy' features a distinctive silver dial and white gold fluted bezel in very good condition. The 36mm stainless steel case paired with a brown leather strap creates timeless elegance perfect for business meetings, special dinners, or sophisticated gatherings where classic refinement is essential.
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 the Rolex Datejust 36mm Ref. 1601 “Wide Boy”? A: It’s a vintage, Swiss‑made automatic Datejust with a 36mm stainless‑steel Oyster case, an 18ct white‑gold fluted bezel, and a silver “Wide Boy” dial featuring broader hour markers and matching hands. It includes a date display at 3 o’clock and is fitted to a brown Epsom leather strap for timeless, dressy versatility.
Q: What does “Wide Boy” mean and why is it collectible? A: “Wide Boy” refers to the distinctive dial/hand set with wider baton markers and broader hands, most associated with early 1970s Datejusts. The look is highly legible and aesthetically balanced, making these variants sought after by collectors. We’re happy to share close‑up photos and confirm originality details for this specific piece on request.
Q: Which movement does it use, and does it have a quickset date? A: Ref. 1601 models typically house the automatic Rolex Calibre 1570/1575. The date is non‑quickset, meaning it advances by rolling the hands past midnight rather than via a separate crown position. Power reserve is around 48 hours. We can verify the exact calibre in this watch for you.
Q: How do I set the time and date safely on a non‑quickset Datejust? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: wind (about 20–40 turns if the watch has stopped). Position 2: set the time; advance the date by moving the hands past midnight (repeat as needed). Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly.
Q: What crystal does the ref. 1601 have, and is there a Cyclops lens? A: Most 1601 Datejusts feature an acrylic (plexiglass) crystal with Rolex’s Cyclops magnifier over the date. Acrylic can show light marks over time; a professional can polish minor scuffs. If you’d like us to confirm the crystal type on this exact watch, please contact us.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I swim with it? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres, but water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed without recent gasket replacement and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless it has been freshly re‑sealed and tested. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any exposure to moisture.
Q: What are the materials and strap details? A: The case is stainless steel with an 18ct white‑gold fluted bezel and a silver dial. This listing is supplied on a brown Epsom leather strap; vintage watches are often paired with later straps. If originality matters to you, we can confirm the strap’s origin and advise on period‑correct bracelet options (e.g., Jubilee or Oyster). Lug width for 36mm Datejusts is typically 20mm; we can verify for this piece.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the strap be changed? A: The listed strap length suits wrists up to approximately 19cm. The 36mm case wears well on most wrists seeking a classic proportion. The strap can be swapped or sized; share your wrist measurement and we’ll suggest suitable adjustments or alternative straps.
Q: How can I confirm the production year and reference? A: The reference is stamped between the lugs at 12 o’clock and the serial at 6 o’clock (the strap must be removed). Based on serial 2,478,457, this example is likely from the early 1970s; we can verify with photos and provide documentation on request.
Q: What servicing and accuracy should I expect, and what is included with the purchase? A: A well‑maintained vintage 1601 should keep good time, though performance varies with age and service history. A routine service every 5–10 years is sensible, or sooner if accuracy or water resistance is a concern. Keep it away from strong magnets, solvents and extreme heat, and wipe it with a soft microfibre cloth after wear. This listing is delivered with no accessories unless stated otherwise. A Retro Tale guarantees 100% authenticity, provides a 12‑month mechanical warranty, free fully insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers.
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.
We ship all orders from Sweden, and when importing to Canada your order may be subject to import duties and sales tax, which will be charged to you upon delivery by the shipping carrier.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
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.
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 note that all return shipments to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Retain your shipping receipt and tracking number until the return is completed and your refund is processed. Return shipping costs will be covered by A Retro Tale, and we will provide you with a prepaid return label.
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
55%
off retail price
• Stainless steel case, 36mm
• White gold fluted bezel
• Silver “Wide Boy” dial with date display
• Automatic movement
• Brown epsom leather strap
• Vintage
