Notes: When it comes to vintage Datejust watches, the reference 1600 is lesser known than its counterparts that offer the more widely sought-after fluted bezel. But don't count this men's reference out just yet. Some may argue that the Datejust 1600 provides a classier and more sophisticated style than any other vintage Datejust watch, thanks to the addition of a smooth, high-polish bezel. This option is also a bit more rare, making it an instant collectors item. This feature set also has no problem transitioning from a day at the office to a black-tie affair. Just like the other vintage Datejust models that have proceeded it, the Rolex Datejust 1600 also offers a 36mm waterproof Oyster case, a dial set with a jump date at the 3 position, and it also retains its original five-link Jubilee bracelet secured with a Fliplock clasp.

Mechanism: The 1575 is the date version of the 1570. Like many rolex movements the date version will be stamped with the same number as the non-date version. Hence you will see "1570" stamped into most (if not all) 1575 movements. The sure fire way to tell the difference is the presence of the date wheel.

The 1570 movement superseded the 1560, but shared the vast majority of its elements, with a few notable improvements. The 1570 marked the third generation of the 1500 series. It comes with the balance assembly Rolex p/n 8106, again with a Breguet hairspring. However, it’s with a higher frequency of 19,800 bph, or 2.75Hz.

Similarly to its predecessor, Rolex also manufactured it as a date and GMT version, the 1575, which proved the perfect companion to the Explorer II released in 1971, as well as the GMT-Master and Datejust series. As with many of the date equipped mechanism made by Rolex, the number stamped into the metal is the NON-date version. Hence in the case of the 1575, the mechanism will be stamped "1570".

Although there is no Quickset mechanism, the 1500 calibers came with the cam and jewel system. This system was able to create an instantaneous date change at midnight, still used by Rolex today.

Family Notes: The Datejust emerged in 1945, introducing the watch world to the innovative automatically changing date window. This feature made watch history and has since made the Datejust one of Rolex's most successful models. The ladies model that was introduced a few decades later has enjoyed a large amount of success as well, thanks to its functional yet luxurious design. The Rolex Datejust is the modern archetype of the classic watch, thanks to aesthetics and functions that transcend changes in fashion. Aesthetically, the Datejust has spanned eras, while retaining the enduring codes that make it, notably in its traditional versions, one of the most recognised and recognisable of watches.

Originally named the Jubilee Datejust, Rolex Datejust history began in 1945 when Rolex released the model for the company's 40th Anniversary. It was a direct descendant of the Bubbleback and included a date function, which was placed at the 3 o’clock position on the face. The Datejust had a coin-edge bezel, which later became the flutted bezel. It was the first watch to show the date automatically and also the first to change the displayed date at exactly midnight. The Datejust was innovative, unique, and different than any other watch offered at that time.

The history of Rolex Datejust begins with the first Datejust, the Jubilee Datejust Model 4467, which was only available in 18k gold and had a small bubbleback winder with a deeply domed back. In the 1950's, the Oysterdate joined the Datejust family, coming in two sizes. Although the Datejust originally consisted of three case parts, it was quickly updated to just two. Another major update was the addition of the Cyclops lens in 1954. Today this lens is standard to Rolex watches and even part of the brand’s signature. Before 1954, however, no one had used a magnifying bubble on the lens right above the date. Then, in 1957, a new, lighter, slimmer movement, the caliber 1065, allowed for a flattened case back in place of the old domed one. That same year, the Datejust became available in Steelium (stainless steel) in addition to the original gold. Other changes over the years included a flat dial (rather than curved) and the Rapid Date Change (aka quickset) feature.

The fact that Rolex Datejusts are still purchased and worn today is a testament to their enduring respectability and timelessness. To understand the Rolex Datejust history, pictures can be worth a thousand words. Seeing pictures of multiple presidents and other powerful people wearing the Rolex Datejust shows the importance and significance of this watch.