The history of this Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date
Rolex introduced the Oyster Perpetual Date model during the 1950s to offer an alternative to its Datejust. This creation met the expectations of customers seeking a reliable, water-resistant watch in a more understated design. Its development was based on the brand’s founding principles, with the invention of the hermetic Oyster case in 1926 and the introduction of the Perpetual automatic movement with a rotor in 1931. This reference 1500 stands out for a technical and commercial feature. In the 1970s, the brand adapted its production to meet economic constraints. To circumvent US import duties on 18-carat gold, Rolex exported certain watches to that market with bracelets made from 14-carat gold. This feature authenticates the history of this piece and lends it a distinct historical character.
Case, movement and bracelet of this Oyster Perpetual Date
The case, crafted from 18-carat yellow gold, has a diameter of 34 mm. Its smooth, fully polished bezel frames a champagne-coloured dial. The dial’s surface features a sunburst finish that catches the light to create radial reflections. The hours are marked by slender, raised gold hour-markers, accompanied by straight tritium-filled hands, the material of which has developed a patina over the decades. The Plexiglas crystal incorporates a Cyclops lens to facilitate reading the date. The solid, screw-down caseback protects the calibre 1575. This mechanical movement beats at a frequency of 19,800 vibrations per hour and guarantees a power reserve of 48 hours. Its construction incorporates 26 jewels. The watch is fitted with its original Oyster bracelet, bearing the reference number 7205. Its 14-carat gold links are distinctive for being assembled with visible side rivets and fasten with a single folding clasp.
Why this Rolex watch
The appeal of a vintage gold watch lies in its ability to stand the test of time with understated elegance. This combination offers good value on the second-hand market. The 34 mm diameter is a unisex size, ideal for slipping under a shirt sleeve. The contrast between the 18-carat gold case and the 14-carat gold bracelet tells a precise story of the brand’s craftsmanship. This contrast in lustre makes this Oyster Perpetual Date a sought-after piece amongst collectors wishing to acquire a historic timepiece that combines the brand’s craftsmanship with a discreet presence on the wrist.
Contents and condition
This watch, which left the workshops around 1979, comes with its black presentation box and white cardboard outer box. The original documents are no longer present. The watch is in good condition. The metal shows a few fine scratches, to be expected on a watch of this age, and the bracelet exhibits the natural flexibility inherent in its design. The brushed surfaces on the top of the lugs remain visible. Our craftsmen can polish the watch on request to restore the smooth surfaces of the case.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector rigorously guarantees the authenticity of this piece. The movement has been checked to ensure it is in good working order, and we offer a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand watch retailer, backed by the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for a fitting and in-store collection, or fully secure international delivery.
* Good condition – Watch has been previously worn. Some signs of wear (micro-scratches, wear marks, etc.). Fully functional and tested by our partner watchmakers.
