Rolex Date Ref. 1500 ‘Gilt’

The Rolex Date line is perhaps a bit of a hidden gem. Overlooked by the male audience when fashion dictated watches should be big in the early 2000s. Now that the trends are leaning towards smaller again, they are being rediscovered as a pretty great size for both men and women. Of course, there are smaller sizes available as well, but the 34mm is the most common.

Rolex launched the 36mm Datejust and the 34mm Air King in 1945. About a decade later, the Date was added as a sort of in-between model. The same 34mm Oyster case as the Air King, but with the addition of a date and cyclops like the Datejust.

So what you have here is a watch that is technically the same as a Datejust, but since its smaller size scares off some of the potential buyers, it is much more affordable. So if you are confident wearing a subtle size like this (if you are not, come and try one on. You will be converted) this is a real sweet spot in the vintage Rolex market!

The Date comes in tons of variations. From rare early models with gilt dials and dagger hands, to super minimalist silver dial, oyster bracelet examples. You can have your pick of materials, colors and bracelets. There is surely a version that will speak to you!