Linen Dial Rolex Datejust 'Wideboy'

An exceptionally distinctive example of the vintage Rolex Datejust, featuring the seldom-seen combination of a silver linen “Wideboy” dial and matching Wideboy hands.

Reference 1601 is one of the defining vintage Datejust references, pairing the classic 36mm Oyster case with an acrylic crystal and fluted white-gold bezel. This example is elevated by its remarkable silver linen dial, whose finely woven texture changes dramatically with the light, shifting from cool silver to warmer champagne tones depending on its surroundings.

The so-called “Wideboy” execution is characterised by unusually broad applied hour markers accompanied by correspondingly wide hands. Already considerably scarcer than the conventional Datejust dial configurations of the period, the combination with a textured linen finish is particularly unusual and gives the watch a much stronger visual presence than a standard silver 1601.

The dial retains the traditional stepped or “pie-pan” profile associated with the four-digit Datejust, while the acrylic crystal, fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet complete one of Rolex’s most recognisable designs.

Powered by Rolex’s automatic calibre 1575, the watch offers the durability and simplicity that made the Datejust such an enduring everyday watch, while the unusual dial configuration gives this particular example a character rarely encountered today.

A wonderful choice for somebody looking for a vintage Datejust that remains unmistakably Rolex, but is considerably more individual than the conventional silver, champagne or black-dial examples.

Details

• Brand: Rolex

• Model: Datejust

• Reference: 1601

• Case: Stainless steel

• Diameter: 36mm

• Bezel: Fluted white gold

• Dial: Silver linen “Wideboy”

• Hands: Matching Wideboy handset

• Crystal: Acrylic

• Movement: Rolex calibre 1575 automatic

• Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds and date

• Bracelet: Rolex Jubilee

• Crown: Rolex screw-down crown