Rolex Date – Reference 1500 (1970)

Heritage Narrative

The Rolex Date reference 1500 is one of the purest expressions of Rolex’s classic Oyster Perpetual design language. Produced throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the Date line offered the robustness and reliability of Rolex’s professional models in a more compact and understated format.

This 1970 example features the traditional 34 mm stainless steel Oyster case, a size that was considered the standard gentleman’s watch of its era. The clean white dial, paired with simple applied hour markers and baton hands, reflects Rolex’s functional, no-nonsense approach to design during the period. The acrylic (plexiglass) crystal further anchors this watch firmly in the vintage era, delivering warmth and distortion that collectors still value today.

Powered by a Rolex automatic movement and built with a screw-down crown and caseback, the Date 1500 was designed as an everyday watch. It is not flashy, not experimental, and that is precisely its appeal. This reference represents Rolex at its most honest: durable, legible, and timeless.

Technical Specifications

Reference:
1500

Year:
1970

Movement:
Rolex automatic mechanical movement, self-winding

Case:
34 mm stainless steel Oyster case with screw-down crown and caseback

Bezel:
Smooth stainless steel bezel

Crystal:
Acrylic (plexiglass) crystal

Dial / Hands:
White dial with applied hour markers and baton hands

Bracelet / Clasp:
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet with folding clasp

Water resistance:
Not specified (vintage model; water resistance not guaranteed)

Condition & Inclusions

Overall grade:
Pre-owned — good vintage condition with visible signs of age consistent with a 1970 production watch

Service status:
Movement running and tested

Set:
Watch only — no original box or documentation

Shipping & Logistics

Stored off-site and shipped fully insured within 1–3 business days.
Worldwide shipping available; buyer responsible for any import duties or taxes.

Shipping & Returns

Complimentary insured worldwide shipping and a 14-day return window (watch must be returned in the same condition supplied). Each timepiece is authenticated, time-tested, and professionally prepared prior to dispatch. All shipments include secure packaging, tracking, and full insurance coverage.