Rolex 1601 with engine turned bezel

[wap24]

Good day! would just like to ask for enlightenment on this query. Is there a possibility of Rolex 1601 models fitted with engine turned bezels which are supposed to be found on 1603 models? Is it stock or a later replacement by owners? Your response will be greatly helpful. Thank you!

[Hub6152]

Originally Posted by wap24

Good day! would just like to ask for enlightenment on this query. Is there a possibility of Rolex 1601 models fitted with engine turned bezels which are supposed to be found on 1603 models? Is it stock or a later replacement by owners? Your response will be greatly helpful. Thank you!

They are a simple interference fit and easily interchanged.

[wap24]

thank you for the reply sir. so it's safe to say to say that every 1601 with engine turned bezel are non-stock but a later replacement? thank you

[Hub6152]

Originally Posted by wap24

thank you for the reply sir. so it's safe to say to say that every 1601 with engine turned bezel are non-stock but a later replacement? thank you

As far as I am aware yes although AD’s could possibly have changed them on request many years ago.

[Yachtbuoy]

I believe engine-turned bezels made out of steel exist. I want to say I've even seen a picture of one, but they are reasonably uncommon.

I'd agree with Hub here too. Rolex of yore used to switch dials/bezels/hands on Datejusts reasonably frequently, so a DJ with "incorrect" parts might not be bad as long as the dial/hands/whatever are approximately period correct and look all right.

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by Yachtbuoy

I believe engine-turned bezels made out of steel exist. I want to say I've even seen a picture of one, but they are reasonably uncommon.

I'd agree with Hub here too. Rolex of yore used to switch dials/bezels/hands on Datejusts reasonably frequently, so a DJ with "incorrect" parts might not be bad as long as the dial/hands/whatever are approximately period correct and look all right.

AFAIK, all engine-turned DJ bezels are steel. And yes, not original on a 1601.

[Hub6152]

Originally Posted by Dan S

AFAIK, all engine-turned DJ bezels are steel. And yes, not original on a 1601.

Correct, fluted is white gold and engine turned are steel. One thing that often happens is that when the crystal is replaced the gold bezel can crack and even split making the water resistance useless. It’s possible that someone replaced it for that reason as well.

[wap24]

Thank you all for the much needed responses. much appreciated. thanks!

[wap24]

if i may add another query. does the replacement to an engine turned bezel affects the value of a 1601 datejust? thanks in advance!

[Hub6152]

Originally Posted by wap24

if i may add another query. does the replacement to an engine turned bezel affects the value of a 1601 datejust? thanks in advance!

Yes it will to some degree because it’s not original, a lot depends on the condition of the watch itself. It might be worth replacing if the watch is in outstanding condition.

[Nick9]

There are literally thousands of Dates and Datejusts with swapped dials and bezels. Back then, Rolex dealers would routinely offer customers various choices, and later replacements to give their watches a new look.

While originality is a factor in value, it’s not nearly as important as the overall condition and appearance.

For the most part, these watches have held up very well; the dials are very often in excellent condition; the movements are workhorses and easy to service.

[MorningTundra]

Unless it’s a pristine full set, most DJ collectors don’t mind as long as the parts are authentic. You could take the time and spend the $$ to return it to factory spec but you won’t get your money back.

[wap24]

thank you all for the helpful inputs! stay safe sirs.

[Yachtbuoy]

Originally Posted by Dan S

AFAIK, all engine-turned DJ bezels are steel. And yes, not original on a 1601.

I've found what I was half remembering, it's actually a Rolex OP Date and it has the reeded-style engine turned bezel but in gold.

https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex-bl...ed-bezels.html