Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date, ref. 1501, Bamboo Bezel, circa 1960s

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

A Charismatic Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date, Model Ref: 1501, With Beautiful Gilt Dial Furniture and Stylish Dauphine Hands, Original Condition, c.1960s The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Model Ref: 1501, introduced in the mid-1960s, is a quintessential timepiece that blends style with precision. Building on the legacy of the original Rolex Oyster, which debuted in 1926 as the world's first waterproof wristwatch, the Ref: 1501 was designed to uphold these innovative standards. Equipped with the automatic Caliber 1570 movement, known for its robustness and reliability, this model ensured accurate timekeeping while incorporating a date function—a practical twist that enhanced everyday usability. What's on Offer Over the years, the 1501 has gained appreciation among collectors for its durability and timeless design. This Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date is a classic vintage timepiece featuring the lesser-seen yet distinctive bamboo bezel - it is more common to see a smooth or fluted bezel. The charming silver sunburst dial has developed a rich patina over time enhancing its vintage charm. The dial boasts applied gilt hour indexes with lumnious pips and stylish Dauphine hands. The date window at 3 o’clock is magnified by Rolex’s signature Cyclops lens, a defining feature of the brand’s date models. At 34mm, this is a mid-size watch with a classic, understated presence on the wrist, making it a versatile option for both vintage collectors and everyday wearers. The stainless steel case is in fairly good order with only the general signs of wear one would expect to see on a watch of this age. The stainless steel Oyster bracelet, a robust and comfortable design that has remained largely unchanged throughout Rolex’s history, is also in fairly good shape. The combination of the bamboo bezel, aged dial, and sturdy construction makes this reference 1501 an attractive choice for collectors who appreciate the character and history of vintage Rolex timepieces. The natural wear and patina add a sense of authenticity, making it a timepiece that tells its own story through the passage of time. The watch is powered by the Rolex Caliber 1570, a self-winding, chronometer-certified movement known for its reliability and precision.