Rolex Datejust 1601 Two-Tone

There are certain watch designs that have become, for lack of a better word, timeless. The Rolex Datejust, introduced in 1945, has been worn by presidents and luminaries, and there's a good reason why. Its beauty and elegance is regarded as a horological classic, its relentless timekeeping unparalleled, and its versatility makes it at home in both casual and luxury environments. 

The original Datejust, a Reference 4467, was the world's first wristwatch to incorporate a date disc and aperture at 3 o’clock. The Reference 4467 bore a distinctive bracelet, which gained the nickname "jubilee" due to its introduction during Rolex's jubilee 40th anniversary. The design of the Datejust remained more or less unchanged until 1954, when the cyclops magnifier over the date window was introduced, and has since become a signature Rolex design cue.  

While the typical Datejust in steel can be dressed up or dressed down, this particular example, a Reference 1601, is one of the more stunning expressions of the classic line. The two-tone configuration pairs a base stainless steel Oyster case with a fluted gold bezel and crown, making it a decidedly dressier watch. Fitted with a gold-toned linen texture dial with gold hour markers and matching hands, this isn't your average Datejust. 

Where so many watches can be a little too big here, or a little too small there, the Datejust is just right, embracing the wrist with its thin and tapering 36mm case. And while recent horological trends have favored large wristwatches, the classic Datejust has remained at 36mm, a pleasantly stylish option that fits the bill.

There's a magic to the Datejust's simple design, a timelessness that speaks to how true style never dies.