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Lot Essay
Already a significant rarity, the present 18k gold reference 1601 is elevated even further as one of the few gold Rolex Datejusts with a lapis lazuli dial to be made for His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said of Oman. The dial bears the ‘Khanjar’ emblem of the Sultanate of Oman printed in gold in the lower half of the dial.
The Datejust reference 1601 is one of the quintessential Rolex models of the 1960s and 70s. Perhaps one of the most iconic watches not only to the brand, but to the world, the Datejust is one of the longest, most continuously produced models. The reference also has the distinction of being the first Rolex Datejust to be enriched with hardstone dials in the bold colours that were the hallmark of the era. Today, reference 1601 Datejusts with hardstone dials are a favourite with collectors as true vintage pieces that were made only in very small numbers.
Of all the hardstone dial versions, lapis lazuli, the favourite gem of Egyptian pharaohs and Royal dynasties throughout history, is perhaps the most eye-pleasing: not only is the deep blue colour breathtaking, but the stone’s natural inclusions add depth, movement and flair to the dial. These dials are known for their fragile nature and are increasingly scarce to find in unharmed condition.
His Late Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said
A man of undeniably exquisite taste and also a watch enthusiast, His Late Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, owned and offered as gifts innumerable timepieces. The collaboration between Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said and Rolex started in the early 1970s with the Sultan's wish to show his gratitude to the members of the British Special Forces, SAS, who had successfully assisted him in his fight against rebels from 1970 to 1976. In the years to come he regularly ordered various Rolex models which were presented as gifts in recognition of a service rendered. It can be assumed that the degree of personalisation indicated the level of appreciation that the Sultan wished to demonstrate to the recipient.
The Datejust reference 1601 is one of the quintessential Rolex models of the 1960s and 70s. Perhaps one of the most iconic watches not only to the brand, but to the world, the Datejust is one of the longest, most continuously produced models. The reference also has the distinction of being the first Rolex Datejust to be enriched with hardstone dials in the bold colours that were the hallmark of the era. Today, reference 1601 Datejusts with hardstone dials are a favourite with collectors as true vintage pieces that were made only in very small numbers.
Of all the hardstone dial versions, lapis lazuli, the favourite gem of Egyptian pharaohs and Royal dynasties throughout history, is perhaps the most eye-pleasing: not only is the deep blue colour breathtaking, but the stone’s natural inclusions add depth, movement and flair to the dial. These dials are known for their fragile nature and are increasingly scarce to find in unharmed condition.
His Late Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said
A man of undeniably exquisite taste and also a watch enthusiast, His Late Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, owned and offered as gifts innumerable timepieces. The collaboration between Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said and Rolex started in the early 1970s with the Sultan's wish to show his gratitude to the members of the British Special Forces, SAS, who had successfully assisted him in his fight against rebels from 1970 to 1976. In the years to come he regularly ordered various Rolex models which were presented as gifts in recognition of a service rendered. It can be assumed that the degree of personalisation indicated the level of appreciation that the Sultan wished to demonstrate to the recipient.