Model Reference
PRE-OWNED ROLEX 1603 DATEJUST WATCHES
Production Years:
Datejust reference 1603 is one of the earliest Rolex watches that came out sometime in 1959, with its manufacturing running until the end of the 1970s. The time span is too long for the reference to remain unchanged. Some details varied during these decades and depending on when it was made, a watch could reveal plenty of information about itself.
It is recommended to determine the manufacturing date when buying a Rolex watch from the vintage collection of the 1603 reference. Watches manufactured at different times could have identical reference numbers, but some period-specific features would differ.
Defining Features
It doesn't take much effort to notice what distinguishes a 1603 from most of the other Vintage Datejust watches out there. An engine turned stainless steel bezel surrounds the dial, creating an entirely different look for the watch than that of the standard fluted bezel Datejust.
The rest is all classic Rolex design of the era. An Oyster case measures at 36mm across, while the acrylic crystal covers the dial, and the Cyclops magnifies the date window at the three o'clock position. There were also a variety of dials available, including silver, blue, black, grey, and white. Most 1603 watches will be found on a Jubilee bracelet, but configurations may vary among individual pieces.
Inside the dial is a Rolex 15xx series automatic movement. The early 1603 watches are associated with the Calibre 1565, while later 1603's use the Calibre 1575. There is no instant set date feature, so to change the date, the hands must go through midnight.
About Rolex Model Number 1603
Some time spent with the 1603 will reveal its age in all the right ways, despite the fact that this watch predated the use of sapphire crystals and quick-set date windows common to modern Day-Dates. This historical link to such an iconic Rolex, however, is largely what makes the 1603 reference so appealing.
A single feature or specification of this 1603 watch alone cannot define it, however, due to the many iterations it went through over nearly two decades of production in terms of dial, hour markers, luminous materials and other minute details. The search for the correct 1603 therefore may depend less on the reference and more on the specific watch itself.
At a Glance
- 36mm Oyster case
- Jubilee bracelet
- Oystersteel case and bracelet
- Dial in silver, black, blue, white, and more
- Rolex 1570 calibre with automatic movement
- Water-resistant to 100M
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Source Pre-Owned Rolex Datejust 1603 Watches
If you want to source a pre-loved luxury timepiece, BQ Watches is the best place to go. Our team has over 30 years of experience in the watch industry, so you can trust we’ll be able to procure the watch you’ve had your eye on. Whether you’re looking for something vintage and rare, or something more modern, we’ve got you covered. Simply let our team know what brand and model you want, along with other important details, and we’ll let you know when we’ve produced it.
Our inventory of pre-owned wristwatches is also full of interesting luxury timepieces at any given time. If you don’t have something specific in mind, it’s always worthwhile to browse and see what we have in store. Some of the brands we carry are Rolex, Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, Cartier, Hublot, IWC, Omega, Tudor, and many more. We can also track down a brand if we’re not carrying it and you have something else in mind. Our goal is always to find you the watch you want.
Why Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex Datejust 1603?
The Rolex Datejust 1603 is a great choice for anyone drawn to the character and proportions of a vintage Rolex. Its classic 36mm Oyster case, distinctive engine-turned bezel and practical date display give it an unmistakable look that has aged particularly well.
Buying a pre-owned Rolex 1603 also gives you the chance to own a discontinued Datejust with genuine vintage appeal. With numerous dial variations available and a reliable automatic movement, it combines everyday wearability with the history and charm collectors look for in an older Rolex.
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Second-Hand Rolex Datejust 1603 Online
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BQ Watches can provide you with all of your luxury watch services. In addition to offering a full inventory of watches to buy, you can also sell a watch to us. We can make you an offer or provide an exchange value toward your next purchase. We also offer repairs, cleanings, and appraisals for your convenience. Don’t forget about our sourcing services either, because we always want to ensure you have the best watch-buying experience possible.
If you know what service you need, fill out our contact below and our team will reach out to you shortly.
Why Choose BQ Watches for a Pre-Owned Rolex Datejust 1603?
With a watch of this age, what has happened since it left Rolex matters. A 1603 may have been serviced several times, polished, fitted with replacement components or worn on more than one bracelet during its life. None of those details should be ignored when deciding which watch to purchase.
BQ Watches can help you understand those details before you buy a vintage Datejust. If you already own a Rolex 1603 and are considering a sale, our specialists can assess the watch and discuss the options available to you. An exchange can also be arranged when you want to move into another reference, while our professional valuation service can establish what your watch may be worth in the current market.
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