Vintage
G99 shares the unexpected arrival of a vintage Rolex Datejust ref. 1603, acquired through an online auction. This post captures the excitement and dilemmas of vintage watch collecting, from assessing originality to considering modifications. G99's experience highlights the thrill of finding a bargain and the community's role in guiding restoration and collection decisions.
quite a long time ago, perhaps 3 weeks or more, i won a Rolex date just on that auction site we know exists but never mention, but the seller sent it by rowing boat so i'd nearly given up worrying about it, especially as my 1964 Submariner arrived on wednesday. anyway, i went away last night to see my sister, imbibe a quantity of gin and watch a band. when i got home today there was a jiffy bag on my doormat that the postman had put through the letter box. no signature required, no tracking, no nothing. i opened it up and was actually really pleased with the contents. the first thing was a 26mm 1603 ref 2 tone date just from 1964 with a white roman numeral dial. that however, was the only thing that really relates to Rolex as the 2 tone bracelet is an aftermarket one albeit good quality. it has screw in link pins and gold links, but no emblem on the clasp. there was also a nice brown padded lizard strap. i have a steel vintage rolex buckle so a strap is an idea worth considering if i dont want to wear a 'copy' bracelet.
anyway, very pleased. the case is iv.64, the movement is 1.1 mil, the white dial is growing on me, but the lume is missing from the minute hand (does that matter i wonder). do i get the hands replaced ? i had considered getting the dial replaced for a black one or similar. your opinions are very welcome on that matter as well as whether it matters that the bracelet isnt genuine. it looks the same and you cant see the clasp. i've considered getting a genuine clasp, but having seen the price i've changed my mind 
i should add that this watch was cheap as chips, well below the going rate due to the sellers really bad pics, but i asked the right questions and got a bargain.
i now own 2 Rolexes, 1 from each end of the spectrum although what i would really like as a dressier Rolex is a white gold 1803 day date president. there happens to be one for sale. if i can get the funds together i would probably buy that and let this go to offset the cost.
its late, i'm waffling now so i'll leave you with just 2 pictures, the only 2 i've taken so far. when my caseback opener arrives on monday i'll take some more.
enjoy
Rolex Datejust Reference 1603
The Reference 1603 represents Rolex's Datejust offering in 18k yellow gold within the 36mm case size format. This reference was produced during the 1960s and 1970s, positioning it as a precious metal variant within the broader Datejust collection during this manufacturing period.
The watch features a 36mm case constructed from 18k yellow gold, fitted with a smooth bezel and acrylic crystal. Water resistance extends to 100 meters. The timepiece is powered by the automatic Caliber 1570 movement, which provides a 42-hour power reserve when fully wound.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a vintage Datejust execution in solid gold construction. The 1603 offers an entry point into yellow gold Datejust collecting from the 1960s-1970s production era, distinguished by its smooth bezel configuration and acrylic crystal typical of the period's specifications.
It won't be too difficult to relume your minute hand, my friend. Yes, I would do it, in that case. Bravo! Nicolas PS: IV 64, that speaks very loud to me!
thank you Nicolas, i didnt think you would like it as its got yellow gold in it, but that iv.64 must speak volumes my sub is a iii.64 which speaks huge volumes to me as i was born in august. a bit of luck i hadnt considered until you mentioned it. ill talk to my watchmaker about a relume on the minute hand or perhaps do both to keep it even. there is so little lume that it hardly matters. best G
Still running after my first Rolex from 1964, and it seems that they are far from being easy birds to catch! Best, my friend; Nicolas
i know where there is a stunning tropicalised i.64. not on my usual place. ill send you details by pm. if i had the money id have that as well its that good. G
You are on a 1964 Rolex roll. Very nice. I would leave the dial and hands for now and enjoy it. Bill PS It would also look great on a dark brown horween starp with a gold Rolex buckle
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