ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX

RolexPete · 11 February 2010, 02:37 AM

Ever since selling my 16610 Submariner, I missed having a second Rolex with a date that I could wear to complement my 16030 DJ. Well, I happen to glance at my local paper's classified section (which I NEVER do), and saw an ad that read:

Rolex Watch
Stainless Steel Perpetual
Pearl Face, Original Box.
Excellent, Near-Mint
Condition
$1200 FIRM
(Appraised Much Higher)
CASH Only

I made arrangements to look at it this morning. The kids had a day off from school (snow day), so I took them in tow. The gentleman had bought the watch 15 years ago and has had it appraised several times since he bought it for insurance purposes. He pulled out a green box, and low and behold...an excellent condition Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date, with original Rolex Folded Oyster Band, Thunderbird bezel. I almost died when I saw the condition it was in. Immaculate. I asked if he minded if I checked the numbers on the side of the case. He said "you know more about this than I do", and allowed me to remove the bracelet. Model 1501, serial number 1,156,xxx. It looked legit.

I told him it would need a service (which it will at some point) and offered him $1100. He obliged.

I got it home and unscrewed the case back. 1570 movement looking great. The case back had numerous inscriptions with initials and numbers, at least 5 different sets. I can only assume that when he had it appraised every few years, they put their initials and a code, and changed the gaskets?

Now the strange part. The case looks immaculate, but judging by the serial number it dates to 1964. The case back has 165 stamped on it which I assume means either Jan of 65 or first quarter 65. The oyster band has 1-73 stamped on it. The movement is 1570 which I thought didn't come out until 1965.

I have posted pics below, and hope some experts can chime in. I assume the case was made in 1964, and the 1570 movement was brand new at the time and was used in this case. The band I assume was bought at a later date and placed on the watch.

Here it is on my wrist with a 19mm Oyster band that I bought a few years back. I want to keep that original folded Oyster in good shape.

ParisDakarBmw · 11 February 2010, 02:40 AM

That's in very nice shape! The one rivot looks loose on the bracelet, but everything else looks great. Your going to enjoy that watch. Congrats!

brkanand · 11 February 2010, 02:40 AM

Looks good but wait for opinion from experienced TRF members.

RolexPete · 11 February 2010, 02:46 AM

Thanks. The thunderbird bezel makes it wear larger than a 34mm. Feels and looks closer to 35/36mm on my wrist. NICE!!

acce1999 · 11 February 2010, 02:52 AM

Nice find!

Your assumptions sounds correct. The bracelet is a US bracelet, so it could have been a replacement in the mid 70's. The inscriptions inside the caseback are from services. So at least five services.

It's an engine turned bezel.

A very nice watch!

Best,

A

RolexPete · 11 February 2010, 03:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by acce1999

Nice find!

Your assumptions sounds correct. The bracelet is a US bracelet, so it could have been a replacement in the mid 70's. The inscriptions inside the caseback are from services. So at least five services.

It's an engine turned bezel.

A very nice watch!

Best,

A

Judging by the condition of the watch and movement, I believe it has been serviced several times. The guy I bought it from said he bought it at an estate sale 15 years ago for $1500. He also said he has worn it a dozen times in that 15 years. I believe him. This guy knew nothing about Rolex watches. Nice guy though.

kyle L · 11 February 2010, 02:56 AM

Nice Pete! My dad has the newer version, I love the bezel.

RolexPete · 11 February 2010, 03:14 AM

Kyle. Nice pic! You sure your not JJ or Jocke's kid? LOL

Yazo · 11 February 2010, 03:25 AM

Beautiful watch!

RolexPete · 11 February 2010, 03:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yazo

Beautiful watch!

Thanks. Happy to have gotten a good deal. Included a box, which I assume is not original to the watch. Although not marked with any Rolex insignia, it has the same manufacturer stamp under the watch holder as my authentic signed Rolex watch box from my 1987 DJ. "Bufkor Made in USA"

Anyone ever seen an unmarked Rolex watch box like this?

Sperry · 11 February 2010, 03:45 AM

Is that the stretch rivet bracelet or linked rivet bracelet?

That looks like the watch I'm looking for, less the engine-turned bezel.

I ought to pay more attention to the local papers!

Jackxv · 11 February 2010, 03:48 AM

You've made a good deal on that.

Congrats and wear it in health

Jack

RolexPete · 11 February 2010, 04:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sperry

Is that the stretch rivet bracelet or linked rivet bracelet?

That looks like the watch I'm looking for, less the engine-turned bezel.

I ought to pay more attention to the local papers!

Linked rivet I believe. What is the difference between linked and stretch rivet?

I also was expecting the domed /smooth bezel on it when I talked to him on the phone, and have to say I was pleasantly surprised that it has this finely engine turned bezel. Makes the watch wear a tad bigger than 34mm.

Not too much stretch on it either, that is why I have taken it off and put it away. I have a newer 19mm Rolex oyster band that I threw on it to keep the riveted oyster band in mint shape.

When I look at it, it is tough to believe it dates to 1964/65. My father was graduating from college then!

JohnBoy · 11 February 2010, 03:43 AM

Thats a sweet watch and the package price made it a really fine deal for you. I have seen a box or two like that on ebay, but have no expertise there. Congrats on the great find!

cronin · 11 February 2010, 03:56 AM

Pete, I love that bracelet.

JBat · 11 February 2010, 04:09 AM

Congrats Pete.

RolexPete · 11 February 2010, 04:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JBat

Congrats Pete.

Thanks John. I love a bargain!

Prince Tudor · 11 February 2010, 04:20 AM

What a great deal.....congrats
I have seen a few boxes w/out the coronet before myself.
As for the movement and case there is a possibility that the movement had an issue and/or was faulty. It could have been sent back to RSC under warranty and had the movement replaced?

RolexPete · 11 February 2010, 04:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Prince Tudor

What a great deal.....congrats
I have seen a few boxes w/out the coronet before myself.
As for the movement and case there is a possibility that the movement had an issue and/or was faulty. It could have been sent back to RSC under warranty and had the movement replaced?

I am guessing that the case was made right when the 1570 was introduced in the first part of 1965 based on the caseback engraving of 1 65

Sperry · 11 February 2010, 05:01 AM

The rivet band also came with links that expand, with a spring,
like the old style Speigel expanding bracelet.

If it had an expanding link or was entirely expandable, you'd know it.

Yes, I would have paid $1200 for the watch also, even knowing it might need a complete service.

rfknauss · 11 February 2010, 05:42 AM

Peter, very nice acquisition and at a reasonable price.

RolexPete · 23 February 2010, 09:59 PM

Just got an e-mail from Mark Sirriani at watchdoctor.biz. He just finished the overhaul on this watch. I also had him replace the acrylic crystal. Totel $180 and it will be overnighted to me today so I will have it tomorrow. Cannot wait.

Once again, Mark kept me updated on the whole process. Will post pics once I get it.

Tony G · 4 July 2011, 05:39 PM

Marvelous

buke45 · 5 July 2011, 12:12 AM

Nice!!

nauticajoe · 5 July 2011, 12:17 AM

Nice find. Congrats!

HL65 · 5 July 2011, 12:19 AM

Very nice Pete! Congrats!

dddrees · 5 July 2011, 12:19 AM

Old post, but a real nice watch. Belated Congrats.

11 February 2010, 02:37 AM	#1
RolexPete "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Real Name: Peter Location: Massachusetts Watch: 214270 Mk2 Posts: 1,963	New Acquisition Ever since selling my 16610 Submariner, I missed having a second Rolex with a date that I could wear to complement my 16030 DJ. Well, I happen to glance at my local paper's classified section (which I NEVER do), and saw an ad that read: Rolex Watch Stainless Steel Perpetual Pearl Face, Original Box. Excellent, Near-Mint Condition $1200 FIRM (Appraised Much Higher) CASH Only I made arrangements to look at it this morning. The kids had a day off from school (snow day), so I took them in tow. The gentleman had bought the watch 15 years ago and has had it appraised several times since he bought it for insurance purposes. He pulled out a green box, and low and behold...an excellent condition Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date, with original Rolex Folded Oyster Band, Thunderbird bezel. I almost died when I saw the condition it was in. Immaculate. I asked if he minded if I checked the numbers on the side of the case. He said "you know more about this than I do", and allowed me to remove the bracelet. Model 1501, serial number 1,156,xxx. It looked legit. I told him it would need a service (which it will at some point) and offered him $1100. He obliged. I got it home and unscrewed the case back. 1570 movement looking great. The case back had numerous inscriptions with initials and numbers, at least 5 different sets. I can only assume that when he had it appraised every few years, they put their initials and a code, and changed the gaskets? Now the strange part. The case looks immaculate, but judging by the serial number it dates to 1964. The case back has 165 stamped on it which I assume means either Jan of 65 or first quarter 65. The oyster band has 1-73 stamped on it. The movement is 1570 which I thought didn't come out until 1965. I have posted pics below, and hope some experts can chime in. I assume the case was made in 1964, and the 1570 movement was brand new at the time and was used in this case. The band I assume was bought at a later date and placed on the watch. Here it is on my wrist with a 19mm Oyster band that I bought a few years back. I want to keep that original folded Oyster in good shape. __________________ 2016 Explorer 214270 Mk2 - 1996 Submariner 14060* - 1972 Datejust 1601 1972 Oyster Perpetual 1002 - 1978 Oysterquartz 17000 Omega Seamaster 2265.80 - Omega Seamaster 300 166.0324 *RIP PAL 1942-2015

11 February 2010, 02:46 AM	#4
RolexPete "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Real Name: Peter Location: Massachusetts Watch: 214270 Mk2 Posts: 1,963	Thanks. The thunderbird bezel makes it wear larger than a 34mm. Feels and looks closer to 35/36mm on my wrist. NICE!! __________________ 2016 Explorer 214270 Mk2 - 1996 Submariner 14060* - 1972 Datejust 1601 1972 Oyster Perpetual 1002 - 1978 Oysterquartz 17000 Omega Seamaster 2265.80 - Omega Seamaster 300 166.0324 *RIP PAL 1942-2015

11 February 2010, 03:14 AM	#8
RolexPete "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Real Name: Peter Location: Massachusetts Watch: 214270 Mk2 Posts: 1,963	Kyle. Nice pic! You sure your not JJ or Jocke's kid? LOL __________________ 2016 Explorer 214270 Mk2 - 1996 Submariner 14060* - 1972 Datejust 1601 1972 Oyster Perpetual 1002 - 1978 Oysterquartz 17000 Omega Seamaster 2265.80 - Omega Seamaster 300 166.0324 *RIP PAL 1942-2015

11 February 2010, 03:48 AM	#12
Jackxv "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Netherlands Posts: 969	Good deal You've made a good deal on that. Congrats and wear it in health Jack

11 February 2010, 04:20 AM	#18
Prince Tudor "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Real Name: Lucas Location: Canada Watch: Rolex and Tudor Posts: 726	What a great deal.....congrats I have seen a few boxes w/out the coronet before myself. As for the movement and case there is a possibility that the movement had an issue and/or was faulty. It could have been sent back to RSC under warranty and had the movement replaced? __________________

11 February 2010, 02:40 AM	#2
ParisDakarBmw Banned Join Date: Dec 2009 Real Name: Paul Location: New Haven, CT Watch: 116610 Sub-C Posts: 6,552	That's in very nice shape! The one rivot looks loose on the bracelet, but everything else looks great. Your going to enjoy that watch. Congrats!

11 February 2010, 02:40 AM	#3
brkanand 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Real Name: DrK Location: India Watch: 4=YMDaytonaGMTHulk Posts: 7,052	Looks good but wait for opinion from experienced TRF members.

11 February 2010, 02:52 AM	#5
acce1999 "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: GMT+1 Posts: 2,711	Nice find! Your assumptions sounds correct. The bracelet is a US bracelet, so it could have been a replacement in the mid 70's. The inscriptions inside the caseback are from services. So at least five services. It's an engine turned bezel. A very nice watch! Best, A

11 February 2010, 02:56 AM	#7
kyle L "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: USA Watch: Rolex Explorer I Posts: 10,278	Nice Pete! My dad has the newer version, I love the bezel.

11 February 2010, 03:25 AM	#9
Yazo "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Dallas TX Watch: Rolex Posts: 2,812	Beautiful watch!

11 February 2010, 03:45 AM	#11
Sperry "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Real Name: Jim Location: Alpha Posts: 3,383	Is that the stretch rivet bracelet or linked rivet bracelet? That looks like the watch I'm looking for, less the engine-turned bezel. I ought to pay more attention to the local papers!

11 February 2010, 03:43 AM	#14
JohnBoy "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2009 Real Name: John Location: Seattle, WA USA Watch: Rolex - a few! Posts: 1,472	Thats a sweet watch and the package price made it a really fine deal for you. I have seen a box or two like that on ebay, but have no expertise there. Congrats on the great find!

11 February 2010, 03:56 AM	#15
cronin "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Real Name: Drew Location: . Posts: 299	Pete, I love that bracelet.

11 February 2010, 04:09 AM	#16
JBat "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: John Location: Washington Watch: 16710, 16610, DJ Posts: 7,329	Congrats Pete.

11 February 2010, 05:01 AM	#20
Sperry "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Real Name: Jim Location: Alpha Posts: 3,383	The rivet band also came with links that expand, with a spring, like the old style Speigel expanding bracelet. If it had an expanding link or was entirely expandable, you'd know it. Yes, I would have paid $1200 for the watch also, even knowing it might need a complete service.

11 February 2010, 05:42 AM	#21
rfknauss 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Nov 2009 Real Name: Richard Location: Macungie, PA Watch: 5513 Sub, LV Sub Posts: 14,497	Peter, very nice acquisition and at a reasonable price. __________________ *"Few things in life give man as great a pleasure as wearing a Rolex!"* TRF's "AFTER DARK" Bar & NightClub Patron

23 February 2010, 09:59 PM	#22
RolexPete "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Real Name: Peter Location: Massachusetts Watch: 214270 Mk2 Posts: 1,963	Just got an e-mail from Mark Sirriani at watchdoctor.biz. He just finished the overhaul on this watch. I also had him replace the acrylic crystal. Totel $180 and it will be overnighted to me today so I will have it tomorrow. Cannot wait. Once again, Mark kept me updated on the whole process. Will post pics once I get it. __________________ 2016 Explorer 214270 Mk2 - 1996 Submariner 14060* - 1972 Datejust 1601 1972 Oyster Perpetual 1002 - 1978 Oysterquartz 17000 Omega Seamaster 2265.80 - Omega Seamaster 300 166.0324 *RIP PAL 1942-2015

4 July 2011, 05:39 PM	#23
Tony G "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: NYC Watch: GMT Posts: 235	Marvelous

5 July 2011, 12:12 AM	#24
buke45 Banned Join Date: Jun 2010 Real Name: Juan Location: Ponce, PR Watch: Your Butt Posts: 1,464	Nice!!

5 July 2011, 12:17 AM	#25
nauticajoe "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Real Name: Joe Location: PA Posts: 14,774	Nice find. Congrats!

5 July 2011, 12:19 AM	#26
HL65 TRF Moderator & 2024 SubLV41 Patron Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Ken Location: SW Florida Watch: One on my wrist. Posts: 63,989	Very nice Pete! Congrats! __________________ *SPEM SUCCESSUS ALIT*

5 July 2011, 12:19 AM	#27
dddrees "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2010 Real Name: Dan Location: USA Watch: This N That Posts: 34,253	Old post, but a real nice watch. Belated Congrats. __________________ When it captures your imagination, that's when you know you have found your passion. Loyal Foot Soldier of The Nylon Nation. Card Carrying Member of the Global Association of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)