Datejust 1603- two from c '68

[Tbonewalk]

I just got another DJ. I have two. I didn't realize they are both 1603s. They are both also from approx 1968. This last purchase, it has a gold bezel. It looks amazingly shiny and I almost question it's originality. I suspect the hands were changed, because they have some lume. And the two-tone bracelet is dated considerably later. Crystal was changed too. So it's up to snuff. It looks great and the price was too. So I feel safe with it. But I wonder if it was "touched up" and if it left the factory this way. They both run very very well with great reserve and great accuracy. So I like them both a great deal.

But it struck me, and I throw this out to you...

Would the 1603 be offered with a gold bezel as well as a SS? Was that configuration an option?

I'm showing both here.

I'm also interested in the chronology of the DJ. When did the 1603 come along, when did it end and replaced by which model. When did the 1601 end; was it offered concurrently with the 1603?

I take it that then, like now I suppose, there were several different models or editions of the DJ, with characteristics and qualities unique to each. Any info is appreciated.

thank you!

[crowncollection]

There is no 1603 with a white gold bezel. 1601 and 1603 were offered concurrently with many other 1600 series models


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[Tbonewalk]

Originally Posted by crowncollection

There is no 1603 with a white gold bezel. 1601 and 1603 were offered concurrently with many other 1600 series models


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so... the gold bezel I'm showing is logical as is the SS? thank you!

[Richard Carver]

1603 was offered in SS with the SS engine turned bezel only. Any 1603 in any other configuration is a franken. The 1603 was the 'budget' DJ as it was the only one with no gold at all. It was offered concurrently with the other DJs and was replaced by the 16030 in the late 70s.

[Tbonewalk]

Originally Posted by Richard Carver

1603 was offered in SS with the SS engine turned bezel only. Any 1603 in any other configuration is a franken. The 1603 was the 'budget' DJ as it was the only one with no gold at all. It was offered concurrently with the other DJs and was replaced by the 16030 in the late 70s.

thanks Richard!

[Tbonewalk]

another pic of the DJ

[Richard Carver]

Yes, still wrong. :) So many DJs got altered over the last 60 years or so, SS to yellow gold, White gold to SS. All DJs (except 1603) came in all metals and switching them around wasn't a big deal back in the day. It's much more common than people realize.

The 1603 is my favorite 16XX DJ for that reason, I know exactly how it left the factory which can't be said for any other DJ. Unless you have the original paperwork Rolex are the only ones who can tell you how your DJ left the mothership. If you take it in for a Rolex service you may be required to change your yellow gold/SS 1601 back to white. :)

1968 1603



1984 16030

[Tbonewalk]

two honeys for sure...

[Tbonewalk]

but... someone did put alot of energy into changing this watch around and I kind of dig it. "kind of"... I am into for a very good price but now wonder if I should try to return it...

[Richard Carver]

If you like it what difference does it make? It isn't like a Mil Sub where one tiny thing can reduce the value by a small car. The important thing is to know so you don't make a fool of yourself by telling people you have a two tone 1603, you can tell the truth, someone converted it at some point. Not the end of the world on a DJ.

To convert it back would require replacing the dial, hands, crown, bezel and bracelet. Good news is the gold parts are worth more than the SS needed to replace them. I wouldn't worry about it either way but if the ref comes up always point out its a conversion; you don't want people to think you're a n00b! :)

[Tbonewalk]

Originally Posted by Richard Carver

If you like it what difference does it make? It isn't like a Mil Sub where one tiny thing can reduce the value by a small car. The important thing is to know so you don't make a fool of yourself by telling people you have a two tone 1603, you can tell the truth, someone converted it at some point. Not the end of the world on a DJ.

To convert it back would require replacing the dial, hands, crown, bezel and bracelet. Good news is the gold parts are worth more than the SS needed to replace them. I wouldn't worry about it either way but if the ref comes up always point out its a conversion; you don't want people to think you're a n00b! :)

agree all the way around! It's not a super rare or valuable piece. For what it is, it is still pretty cool. I have it up now for sale though on the forum with full disclosure. It's still a Rolex in heart and soul! I made a big purchase yesterday so...

[springer]

Stainless steel to two-tone gold conversions were very, very common back during the 1970s and 1980s as Carver mentioned - not only with the millions of Datejusts produced but also with the sport models.

[craigr]

I know this is an old thread, but did the 1603 come with only one style dial, or did it vary as the years when on? I see minor differences between the sticks and lumes and I am wondering if this is original or not.

Thanks,
craigr

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by craigr

I know this is an old thread, but did the 1603 come with only one style dial, or did it vary as the years when on? I see minor differences between the sticks and lumes and I am wondering if this is original or not.

Thanks,
craigr

1603 DJs came with many, many different dial variations. If you have a specific question, I suggest starting a new thread and posting plenty of photos with the particular questions you are asking.