Rolex Datejust 1601 no lume from 1973

Rolex Datejust 1601 – No-Lume Dial – 1973 – 3.2M Serial – Unpolished Case – Original Jubilee Bracelet – Polishing Optional Post-Sale

Among the most enduring designs in Rolex history, the Datejust 1601 stands as a pillar of balance, proportion, and quiet refinement. But within this vast lineage, true collectors know to look for the outliers — small production details, untouched cases, original bracelets, and dials that speak softly rather than shout.

Offered here is a 1973 Rolex Datejust ref. 1601, serial 3.2M, featuring a no-lume silver sunburst dial, housed in an unpolished Oyster case, and mounted on its original Rolex Jubilee bracelet.

The absence of tritium — both on the dial and in the hands — creates a rare, symmetrical aesthetic. No lume plots, no luminous compound, no aging or loss. Just clean, metallic sunburst silver framed by the warm sheen of the white gold fluted bezel.

The case has never been polished. Edges remain sharp, brushing intact, and the fluting on the bezel is crisp and full. For those who prefer a fresher finish, a professional polish is available after payment, at no additional charge — but the watch is offered in its original state by default.

It’s powered by the workhorse caliber 1570 automatic movement, one of the most reliable vintage movements Rolex ever produced, with the non-quickset date and the reassuring smoothness of a well-preserved example.

Specifications:

• Reference 1601

• Serial: 3.2M (circa 1973)

• No-lume silver sunburst dial

• 36mm stainless steel case

• White gold fluted bezel

• Caliber 1570 automatic movement

• Screw-down crown

• Acrylic crystal

• Unpolished case (polishing available post-sale upon request)

• Original Rolex Jubilee bracelet

The bracelet is tight for its age and matches the case beautifully — original to the watch and rarely preserved this well. This is the kind of honest, well-kept 1601 that’s becoming increasingly hard to find.

A refined, minimal, and collectible Datejust — with the correct patina, untouched surfaces, and original bracelet, just as it left the factory.