Inherited Rolex from grandfather - can someone please help identify model #

[axl169]

Hi All,
I inherited this piece from my grandfather, for the life of me, I can't find the model number in all the documentation. It was purchased in 1968, if anyone can expand on this piece, i would appreciate hearing about it. Everyone loves a story :-)

[offrdmania]

For once, a watch from a grandfather that isnt a fake.
It looks like a nice two tone 1601 maybe. OP, you can take a paperclip and put in in the hole on the side of the lug, it will depress the spring bar allowing you to remove the bracelet. Between the lugs is the model number and serial number. It should match the numbers listed on the guarantee certificate in the upper right hand corner of your second picture.
Please post the model number and the first 3 digits of the serial number and we will be able to give you general info about the watch. It looks like a nice set you have there.

[Stan Cooper]

Ref 1601 two-tone Datejust with champagne dial? Knowing the case size would help. 36mm?

[kwryeung]

Receipt in the photo is from Hong Kong.


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[axl169]

Originally Posted by Stan Cooper

Ref 1601 two-tone Datejust with champagne dial? Knowing the case size would help. 36mm?

Thank you. Yes, I believe it's a 36mm case.

[axl169]

Originally Posted by offrdmania

For once, a watch from a grandfather that isnt a fake.
It looks like a nice two tone 1601 maybe. OP, you can take a paperclip and put in in the hole on the side of the lug, it will depress the spring bar allowing you to remove the bracelet. Between the lugs is the model number and serial number. It should match the numbers listed on the guarantee certificate in the upper right hand corner of your second picture.
Please post the model number and the first 3 digits of the serial number and we will be able to give you general info about the watch. It looks like a nice set you have there.

Thank you, don't laugh but I just tried removed the bracelet and am too scared to break something as it was a bit difficult so I stopped.

[330ci]

Beautiful no lume dial and hands to boot

[Kingface66]

Originally Posted by axl169

Thank you, don't laugh but I just tried removed the bracelet and am too scared to break something as it was a bit difficult so I stopped.

You won't break anything. Just be careful and take your time. Scratching something is all you need to worry about. Watch some videos on YouTube if you need to. Also, a toothpick won't scratch like a paperclip will

[Nickn]

Originally Posted by axl169

Thank you, don't laugh but I just tried removed the bracelet and am too scared to break something as it was a bit difficult so I stopped.

This model was my first Rolex my wife bought it for me at a gun show in Vegas
$650!
But be careful once you have one
It’s a slippery slope
Use a toothpick

[Dr.Smellody]

Looks like a beauty. What a great inheritance! Sorry you lost your Grandfather, but what a great way to remember him by.

[hutch300]

One thing with something like this is making sure its been serviced. You can go to a local dealer and they would remove the bracelet for you. You could send it to one of the many amazing independents favored on this forum and have an overhaul done. Wear the watch and honor your grandpa :)

[L.K Johnson]

A model with great heritage! (Not sure all are 1601, might be 16013...)

[axl169]

Thank you for all the responses, this is a great community. Will look to get it serviced. What a diverse group of people that share the time piece...love it!

[winst]

Lovely watch - great way to remember him!

[Rebel]

Very nice.

[Das]

Sorry for your loss. Beautiful watch what a great way to remember him :)

[dbhak22]

Sorry for your loss. Your grandfather passed down a beautiful watch! Two-tone has historically had an "old man" reputation but I'd argue that the image and perception is evolving so regardless of your age, you should wear it and think about your grandfather. It's certainly a 36mm case and as others have already said, you can remove the bracelet using a toothpick to find both the serial number (6 o'clock side and will allow you to date the watch) and reference/model number (12 o'clock side). You will likely see "1601" or maybe "16013". What makes your Datejust a bit unique is that it's a no lume dial/hands (ie. no tritium on the minute track at the hour markers and on the minute/hour hands).

[Slimpee]

I'm sorry for your loss. I lost three grandparents last year. I ended up with my grandpa's prized Day-Date 1803. I've always loved that watch so I'm proud and humbled to be able to take care of it for him. In fact, I just sent it off to a shop for a bracelet rebuild and additional links.

I don't know how you feel but I see myself as a steward of the watch, here to care for it so I can pass it down the line someday.

You, too, have a wonderful heirloom that will remind you of your grandpa every time you look at it. Care for it by taking it to a trusted watchmaker (you can get ideas on the forum) and then wear with pride!

[zapokee]

It's a beauty. Full box and papers are a nice bonus, too.

Get the movement serviced and enjoy in memory of gramps.

[330ci]

Originally Posted by L.K Johnson

A model with great heritage! (Not sure all are 1601, might be 16013...)

16013 didn’t have a pie pan, great pics though

[andrewjb88]

Very nice, get it serviced and get it worn.

[L.K Johnson]

Originally Posted by 330ci

16013 didn’t have a pie pan, great pics though

Yea, I know. Do you know what exact ref the guys in the pics were sporting? Would be interesting to know...