Rolex Datejust 36 36 mm 1601BSJ3 Steel Blue

The Rolex Datejust 36 reference 1601 is one of the most celebrated and enduring references in the entire Rolex catalog, representing the Datejust line at its most refined and historically significant. The Datejust itself holds the distinction of being the first self-winding wristwatch to display the date in a magnified window on the dial, a milestone that cemented Rolex's reputation as an innovator in practical horology. Reference 1601 carried that legacy across decades, and today it remains a cornerstone piece for serious collectors and discerning buyers who appreciate watches with genuine pedigree.

This particular example presents in stainless steel measuring 36mm across the case, a size that sits elegantly on a wide range of wrists and reads as genuinely classic rather than oversized. The blue dial with index markers is one of the most sought-after configurations for the 1601, offering a sense of depth and sophistication that pairs naturally with formal and smart-casual dress alike. Blue dials on vintage and transitional Rolex references have experienced sustained collector demand, and the index variant is appreciated for its clean, uncluttered legibility.

The yellow gold fluted bezel is the defining design element that elevates this reference beyond a straightforward steel sports watch. The fluting, originally engineered by Rolex to serve a functional purpose in securing the bezel to the case, evolved into one of the brand's most iconic aesthetic signatures. Its warm gold tone contrasts beautifully with the cool stainless steel case and lugs, while complementing the blue dial with a richness that full-steel references simply cannot replicate.

Completing the look is the Jubilee bracelet, a five-link design that Rolex introduced alongside the very first Datejust in 1945. The Jubilee bracelet is celebrated for its suppleness, comfort, and dressy character, and it remains the bracelet most authentically associated with the Datejust family. On the wrist, this combination of Jubilee bracelet, fluted gold bezel, and blue index dial creates a cohesive and unmistakably Rolex profile that is instantly legible to anyone familiar with fine watchmaking.

Powering the watch is a Rolex automatic movement, delivering the reliable self-winding performance that generations of owners have trusted for daily wear. Rolex movements of this era are well-regarded for their robustness, precision, and serviceability, and an established network of qualified watchmakers means that ownership and long-term maintenance of the 1601 is straightforward and well-supported.

At Bizak & Co., we present this Rolex Datejust 36 reference 1601 as an opportunity to acquire a piece of watchmaking history with genuine style and lasting value. Whether you are an experienced collector adding a classic reference to your rotation or a buyer seeking your first luxury watch, the 1601 in this blue-dial, fluted-bezel, Jubilee configuration represents one of the most complete expressions of what the Datejust has always stood for. Contact our team or buy online at bizakandco.com to learn more or to secure this reference today.