Rolex Date 1501 ‘Japan Dial’

A Rolex watch with a “Japan Dial” refers to a particular type of dial produced for the Japanese market during the 1960s and 1970s. These dials did not contain Tritium, a radioactive material that was prohibited in Japan at the time – As a consequence, the dials and hands had no presence of lume, or glow-in-the-dark properties. This gave the watches a distinguishing and a more of a clean look. Due to their scarcity and unique appearance, some “Japan Dial” versions of famous Rolex watches, such as the Date and Datejust, are now highly sought after examples. Look close and you will notice that the hands are ‘closed’ and no Tritium dots are present at the end of the indices.

The Date model, reference 1501 from the 1971 as seen here, is one of Rolex’s most recognizable and classic versions. The sporty, yet sophisticated look in stainless steel that Rolex is renowned for, are evident in this vintage wrist-watch. The near new and spotless face, the aforementioned ‘Japan dial,’ is one of the watch’s standout features. This dial is notable for its distinct clean look, remains in a great shape, and shows little to no evidence of wear or damage – This demonstrates the high degree of care that the watch has received over the years. This is also noticeable in the original 1971 folded Oyster bracelet: this bracelet with number 7835 and 257, 19mm end-links also remains in very good conditions, and shows a clear 4/71 date stamp inside the folding buckle. Another thing I personally find attractive with these models is that the folded Oyster bracelet tapers down from 19mm between the lugs, to 14mm at the clasp; this truly gives the watch an extra dimension and a huge vintage feel. The overall high quality of the watch continues with the slightly unique, Engine turned bezel – This bezel essentially combines a Coin-Edge bezel and an Engine turned bezel into one, and it is distinguished by its sharp and clear ridges and grooves – Super cool and everlasting.

The automatic-winding movement was serviced by our watchmakers and this Rolex Date 1501 ‘Japan Dial’ will be delivered with its original inner and outer boxes, including a Rolex hangtag and small Rolex booklet. As always, the watch will also be sold with our 24 month warranty.

reference: 1501
case number: 275XXXX
year of production: 1971
case diameter: 34mm
movement: automatic, caliber 1570
box and papers: accompanied by original box, booklet and hangtag

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