The Rolex Datejust is one of the most iconic and beloved watches made by Rolex. Launched in 1945, it remains a timeless classic and is instantly recognizable as an item of superior quality and functional design. We love the early Rolex Datejust for its simplicity and its classic sophistication, making for a watch that can be worn just as easily with a suit as it can be with jeans and a t-shirt.

"Ovettone" roughly translates from Italian as 'Big Egg' and is a term coined by collectors to represent early 36mm models that feature round case backs, more commonly seen in the smaller Bubble-Back Rolex model range, which is why "Ovettones" are also commonly referred to as "Big Bubble-Backs". 

The Rolex Datejust wasn't actually signed "Datejust" on the dial until the 1950s, and these early signed models were done so with special red text that was phased out after only a few years. This is synonymous with most of the new model introductions from Rolex in this era, such as the Red Submariner ref. 1680, and Double Red Sea-Dweller ref. 1665. This red detail, however small, adds an incredible amount of exclusivity and character to the Datejust dials.

SPECS

CASE & BRACELET

The stainless steel case is in exceptionally well-preserved and potentially unpolished condition, boasting its original factory dimensions with unaltered and crisp lug holes. The case does feature a "sleeve polish" through wear which is expected for the age of the watch. The original stainless steel engine-turned bezel is in excellent condition and retains all of its factory finishing and grooving. The case retains its original twin-lock screw-down crown featuring the "Brevet" cross. The case back impressively retains its original "Registered Design" engraving which is further evidence of the potential unpolished nature of the case as this marking is generally lost after a single polish. The inside of the case does exhibit some corrosion, and the watch is no longer waterproof, this is common for very early Datejust due to age and the type of steel used. The serial and reference numbers are clearly visible between the lugs to the naked eye. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The original, rare, and genuinely beautiful "Red Datejust" dial is simply remarkable. The originally white dial has achieved an even and warm creamy patina throughout, giving the watch an impressive vintage aesthetic. The original radium-filled arrowhead markers all remain intact with a dark grey patina, under U.V. light inspection the lume display almost no degradation. The original radium alpha-style hands match the dial perfectly and feature light oxidation, the hands show no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The date wheel is the original "roulette" date wheel that also featured "open" 6's and 9's.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping. Fully submerging this watch is not recommended and voids the warranty.