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.
Perfect for boardroom meetings and evening events, this 1978 Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust 36mm in stainless steel and yellow gold adds refined elegance. With its fluted bezel and champagne dial, it complements tailored suits and smart-casual looks alike—an ideal choice for anniversaries, celebrations, or elevating everyday style.
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 distinguishes the Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust Ref. 17013? A: The 17013 is the two-tone Oysterquartz Datejust: a 36mm stainless steel case with an 18k yellow gold fluted bezel, angular 1970s case lines, and an integrated steel-and-gold bracelet. It features a champagne dial with date and the signature Cyclops magnifier, delivering a distinctive retro look with quartz precision.
Q: Which movement powers this watch and how accurate is it? A: It is powered by the Rolex Calibre 5035 quartz movement. Designed with 11 jewels and a 32,768 Hz oscillator, it was engineered for high precision and durability. Under normal conditions it is specified to remain within roughly under one minute per year.
Q: Does the seconds hand tick or sweep? A: Unlike mechanical Rolex models, the Oysterquartz seconds hand “ticks” in one-second steps. The stepping motor and pallet system can make the tick more audible than on many quartz watches—this is normal for the model.
Q: How often will the battery need replacing? A: Typical battery life is about 2–3 years, depending on usage and storage conditions. We recommend combining battery replacement with a gasket check and pressure test for peace of mind.
Q: Does it have a sapphire crystal? A: Yes. The Oysterquartz Datejust is fitted with a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal with Cyclops date magnifier, offering excellent clarity and durability.
Q: Is the watch water-resistant? A: When new, the Oyster case was rated to 100 metres with a screw‑down crown. However, as a vintage piece from 1978, we cannot guarantee water resistance without a recent pressure test. Please treat it as splash‑resistant only and avoid swimming or showering with it.
Q: How do I set the time and date safely? A: Unscrew the crown. First click: Quickset the date. Second click: Set the time. Push the crown back in and screw it down. As general best practice, avoid using the quickset date between about 9pm and 3am when the date-change mechanism may be engaged.
Q: Will it fit my wrist? A: This specific piece fits wrists up to 19cm. The integrated bracelet can be sized down by removing links; note that extra links are not included with this item.
Q: What is the condition of this watch? A: Very Good overall with light traces of use, including surface scratches on the case, case back, and bracelet—consistent with careful wear for a watch of this era.
Q: What is included and do you offer a warranty? A: This listing is for the watch only (no original box or papers). A Retro Tale guarantees authenticity, provides secure insured shipping, a 12‑month movement warranty, and a 14‑day return policy.
SHIPPING TO THE US
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. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
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 UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 2-4 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 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.
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.
Vintage Rolex Oysterquartz 36mm 1978 Watch - A Retro Tale
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
• Stainless steel and yellow gold case and bracelet
• 36mm case
• Fluted bezel
• Champagne dial with date display
• Quartz movement
• Folding clasp closure
• Vintage
