DJ 1600 or 16000

[BruceT]

I'm looking for my first Rolex and I'm finding that datejusts from the 1960-70s (1600s) are priced similarly to more recent vintages (16000s). Does that sound right? Are the 16000 models more desirable than the 1600s?

One more question: if the watch is on a leather band, should that significantly reduce the price?

Thanks!

Bruce

[GRabens]

Yes, a watch on a leather band should be considerably less than one on bracelet. Maybe on the order of $500 less.

[BruceT]

Thanks. Anyone else? Differences between DJ 1601 and more recent DJs?

Bruce

[Sejanus]

Originally Posted by BruceT

Thanks. Anyone else? Differences between DJ 1601 and more recent DJs?

You'd be looking at two big differences from what I recall. The older 1601 models will typically have an Acrylic Crystal as opposed to a Sapphire Crystal. Also the older models typically lack the quick set date feature. Basically you have to turn the hands all 24 hours to get the date to switch over. It can be a little bit of a pain if you let your watch wind down and have it as part of a rotation, otherwise the older guys run very well compared to the new ones.

I don't remember the years/model changes for when the switch over in features happened, so hopefully someone a little more knowledgable can come on and give more specifics, but it should give you an idea of what to expect dealing with the older versus newer models.

[BruceT]

Thanks. Anyone else?