We are delighted to be able to offer another example of the ultra popular, niche model Rolex ref 1530 Oyster Perpetual Date  The 1530 is the rare self winding model fitted to the Oyster Quartz style case, initially likely to be mistaken as an Oyster Quartz, but with a unique reference number, and powered by a self winding caliber 1570 movement, and not Rolex’s in house quartz movement, and accordingly, the dial is signed Rolex Oyster Perpetual, and not Oyster Quartz.

Featuring a 36mm diameter case with smooth bezel, sapphire crystal, and original silver dial that naturally turned to a warm honey color. The 1530 models in particular are prone to developing a warm golden patina. In this case the color is a pronounced and obvious honey or straw color that immediately informs the “cognoscenti” that you are the proud owner of a 1530.

The dial, as is the entire watch is in exceptionally fine condition. The case and the bracelet are super sharp though most likely previously and polished. The dial is a very pleasing color and the sloped bezel offers some contrasting and toned areas which add to the character and vintage visual appeal of this piece. The lume plots and hands are original and intact and show an even patina. The hands are not bent, scratched, corroded, or otherwise damaged.

The case serial # 4.1 million dates the production of this model to 1976, with an integral Iflat link bracelet reference 96660. We have owned 1530 models with both the 96660 bracelet reference as well as the 17000 reference shared by the Oysterquartz model. Both are correct, but the 96660 is found uniquely on the 1530 model.

The bracelet is in excellent, though likely previously polished conditoin, free of nicks, dings, or scratches and will comfortably fit a 7 1/4″ wrist. We do not have additional links available.

The 1530 and 17000 models should now be quite recognizable as the historical antecedent and inspiration for the recently introduced Land Dweller model. The angular case design with wide integral bracelet is no doubt inspired by, though not specifically attributed to Gerald Genta, the inspired designer of the Royal Oak, Nautilus, Pasha, and no doubt many other uncredited watch designs.

Background: The Oyster Quartz model was introduced by Rolex during the “quartz revolution” of the late 1970’s to compete with the burgeoning Japanese market in quartz movements. Rolex produced their own high quality movement, and outfitted the watch in a much more modernist design and more geometric formed Oyster case. The OysterQuartz was produced in the Datejust version in steel and steel and gold combo, and in white gold or yellow gold in the DayDate version.

The Oyster Quartz model has grown in popularity as a slightly larger and more modernist take on the classic Datejust model. The reference 1530 most certainly reaches the pinnacle of exclusivity with its very small production, unique self winding movement, and tendency to develop a pleasing golden patina to the dial.

Finally one other nuance that we find interesting, is that the the dial of the 1530 model reads “Date,” and not Datejust. Yet it is clearly a Datejust model. On the other hand, the dial of the 2 tone version of this model the ref #1630 bears the name “Datejust” on the dial. Frankly, we have no idea why each version was treated differently.

This stunning watch is in excellent operating condition, of course guaranteed genuine, and is offered with our 1 year warranty of accurate time keeping and operation.

No box or papers, but Your purchase includes our signature fine leather watch pouch, ideal for travel and storage, a $65.00 value.