1970 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1501, Salmon dial, Chronometer 1570 movement.
 
The 60s and 70s produced some of the standout sports models from Rolex.
Despite operating slightly below the radar of the Datejust models of the period, the 1501s stock is rising. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1501 is an incredible versatile and desirable, classic vintage Rolex. This is a reference that will be at home in any collection due to it's ability to be worn daily.
 
 It comes at a time when Rolex were at the top of their game in terms of quality and craftsmanship. Despite being from the 1970s, the design is timeless, providing a sleek and modern look for a classic vintage watch. The 34mm case is one of the main aspects that make this watch so versatile. Subtle in size, Waterproof and made of Stainless Steel.
 
This Particular dial in a Salmon tone is one of the most desirable, with it's pop of colour and sun-burst finish. The date is ever present with it's location at 3 O'clock, with the crystals cyclops providing the classic magnification.
 
The dial is neatly framed by the fascinating engine turned bezel which adds great depth to this reference.
 
Inside the watch is the high grade cal. 1570 Chronometer grade 26 jewel automatic movement. Designed in-house by Rolex, this is a classic movement, with it's immediately recognisable purple and gold wheels.
 
This is a watch that is at home desk diving, on a golf course, at home, a dinner date, or on a night out in the town. It truly is a fantastic addition to any collection, being a more affordable model, whilst also being a solid investment.
 
The movement is in excellent condition, keeping time to -2 seconds a day, with a strong amplitude of 300 degrees and a low beat error of 0.1m/s.
 
The watch is in completely original condition, with the correct bracelet and end links. The watch remains un-polished and maintains the natural patina it has gained over it's 50 years of existence. This is a good example, which could appear brand new with a polish. However this is a decision we are keen to leave to a new owner.
 
Please see the images and read the description as these aid the overall picture of the watch. Please ask any questions you do not feel have been adequately covered in the images or description.
 
The strap has 13 links and will fit up to an 8.75" wrist diameter. Suitable for essentially any sized wrist.
 
Dial:
The Salmon tone dial is in excellent original condition with no scratching or marking noticeable with the naked eye. The dials tone is consistent across the dial, with a beautiful sunburst finish.
 
Hands:
The hands are original with no scratching or corrosion. They maintain a perfect silver shine. The lume in-fill is clean and even in tone.
 
Glass:
The crystal is an original plexiglass from the era. These models did not have Sapphire Crystals as standard, yet many have had original plexiglass replaced with it. Some slight blemishes consistent with age. The plus side is that the crystal can be easily polished.
 
Bezel:
The bezel is original and engine turned in style with hour markers. Overall it is in good condition, with some wear that is associated with the age. The grained finish is still clear with smooth polished hour markers.
 
Crown:
The crown seems is original to this watch and is in average condition. It screws down correctly, with no issues with the crown tube. It has some nicks to it which are visible in the images.
 
Case:
The case is Stainless Steel and is in good condition with only light signs of wear and some surface scratching, as expected with an unpolished watch. The brushed upper and lower sides of the case are in excellent condition, with original graining remaining. The sides of the case have more marking, with some slightly deeper marks, however these can be polished.
 
Caseback:
In very good condition, with light surface scratches. Unpolished and original, with the original grained finish. The coin edge finish is sharp and has not been ground from poor attempts at opening.
 
Strap:
The bracelet is an original Rolex Oyster Stainless Steel Bracelet, with the reference correct marking of 78350, with the correct 557 end links. The bracelet has surface scratching consistent with age, with no deep scratches. The clasp is in good unpolished condition, with the Rolex crown having little wear, clearly not having been worn down or polished.
 
The strap has 13 links and will fit up to an 8.75" wrist diameter. Suitable for essentially any sized wrist.
 
Movement:
Inside the watch is the high grade cal. 1570 Chronometer grade 26 jewel automatic movement. Designed in-house by Rolex, this is a classic movement. The movement is in excellent condition, keeping time to -2 seconds a day, with a strong amplitude of 300 degrees and a low beat error of 0.1m/s.
 
It has not been serviced by us due to its good condition and signs of good upkeep and regular servicing from it's previous owner.
 
Case dimensions
Case width: 34.5mm
Case width with crown: 37.2mm
Case length: 34mm
Case length lug to lug: 41mm
Case depth: 12mm
Lug width: 19mm