The Rolex Date, a seemingly simple yet exquisitely crafted timepiece, represents a significant milestone in the brand's history. Its understated elegance and robust reliability have cemented its place as a coveted classic, appealing to collectors and everyday wearers alike. Understanding the nuances of its various references, production years, and model numbers is key to appreciating its enduring appeal and potential value. This article delves deep into the world of the Rolex Date, utilizing resources like Bob's Watches' updated 2016 Rolex Serial Numbers Production Year database to provide a comprehensive overview. We'll explore the intricacies of Rolex Date charts, model number charts, serial number dating, and even touch upon the related Day-Date and Datejust models to provide a broader context.
The Rolex Date: A Concise History
Before diving into the specifics of reference numbers and production years, let's establish a foundational understanding of the Rolex Date itself. Unlike the more flamboyant Day-Date with its day-of-the-week display, or the Datejust with its iconic fluted bezel, the Rolex Date is characterized by its clean, uncluttered dial. It presents a date window at 3 o'clock, showcasing the essence of practical elegance that defines much of Rolex's design philosophy. Its relatively straightforward design belies the sophisticated engineering and meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each piece.
The Rolex Date's evolution throughout the years reflects Rolex's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. While the core design remains consistent, subtle changes in case size, movement, and dial details have marked different eras of production. These variations are precisely what make identifying and dating a specific Rolex Date a fascinating pursuit for collectors.
Navigating the Rolex Date Chart: A Guide to References and Years
The Rolex Date chart, often presented as a table or a comprehensive database (like the one updated by Bob's Watches in 2016), is an invaluable tool for identifying a specific Rolex Date model. These charts typically organize information based on:
* Reference Number: This alphanumeric code uniquely identifies a specific model and its variations. For example, a Rolex Date might have a reference number like 1500, 1520, or 1600, each signifying different case sizes, movements, and production periods.
* Case Material: Rolex Dates were and are produced in various materials, including stainless steel (often referred to as steel), yellow gold, white gold, and combinations thereof (like two-tone models).
* Case Size: The diameter of the watch case, typically measured in millimeters, is a crucial identifying feature. Variations in case size occurred throughout the years, reflecting evolving trends in watch design.
* Movement: The type of mechanical movement powering the watch is another significant factor. Rolex has employed various calibers in its Date models over the decades, each with its own characteristics and level of sophistication.
* Production Year: This is often the most sought-after piece of information. Using resources like Bob's Watches' database, which cross-references serial numbers with production years, allows for accurate dating of a specific watch. However, it's crucial to understand that these databases are constantly being updated and refined, so relying on the most recent version is essential.
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