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 has gently patina’d to a soft blush color. For unknown reason, the 1530 model in particular is prone to developing a rich golden patina. In this case the color is more subtle and does not shout out tropical from across the room but is definitely noticeable and eye catching.

The dial, as is the entire watch is in exceptionally fine condition. The case and the bracelet are super sharp and appear to be entirely unpolished. The dial is free of any imperfections, with a flawless inner sloped bezel with all warmly patina’d tritium lume plots fully intact. The color of the tritium lume of the hands is slightly lighter in color but they are not bent, scratched, corroded, or otherwise damaged.

The case serial # 5.1 million dates the production of this model to 1977, with a matching letter G date code on the clasp. The bracelet is the flat link 17000 bracelet which is the same reference as found on the Oyster Quartz models. The other ref # found on some 1530 models is the ref 96660. Among the handful of 1530 models we have had we see an equal distribution of examples with the 17000 stamped bracelet as we have the 96660. The bracelet design is near identical between the two, with the 96660 having screws for the removable links, while the 17000 has pushpins. We surmise that Rolex used their new stock of 17000 bracelets for these models once the limited run of 96660s were exhausted. But this is only speculation. The key is, all 1530s are so referenced on the case, so there is no issue of a ref# 17000 Oyster Quartz being converted to an Oyster Perpetual or that the 17000 bracelet is a replacement.

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 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.