Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref 1530 Quartz Case Automatic circa 1976

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. It is 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 is an especially pleasing and has taken on a warm honey toning. The watch shows use but does not appear to have been previously polished. The lume plots and hands are original and unretouched. The plots are mostly intact with some degradation at 10, 11, and 1 o’clock. The sloped inner bezel has similar toning as the dial with intact finish and all the minute indexes clear and sharp. 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 very good condition free of significant nicks, dings, or scratches. When acquired, the bracelet contained 11 links, which will fit up to a 7″ wrist. We installed a similar design Oyster quartz link to total 12 links, so that the watch will. now 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.

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. Another nuance that we find compelling 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.

The watch has been recently fully serviced, 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.