The Rolex Datejust hardly needs an introduction. Since its debut in 1945, it has become one of the cornerstones of the Rolex collection, bringing together the Oyster case, Perpetual self-winding movement and instantly recognisable date display in a design that has stood the test of time.

By the end of the 1960s, the famous dial maker Singer was working with several Swiss manufacturers, creating new dial proposals, finishes, printing techniques and marker designs for their future model lines. In their well-known 1967/68 catalogue, Singer presented a fascinating collection of design studies, many of which give us a glimpse into the creative thinking behind some of the most recognisable dials of the era.

Among the designs presented were ideas that would eventually find their way onto some of Rolex’s most famous models, including early exotic Daytona dials and the Yachting-related designs. But there was also an interesting section dedicated to the Rolex Datejust.

Many of these proposals remained just that — design studies — and were never put into regular production. Others, however, appear to have made the jump from the drawing board to the wrist.

This particular Datejust features what is known among collectors as a “Singer Block Markers” dial, with a design remarkably reminiscent of one of the Datejust variations illustrated in the Singer catalogue. We believe this is one of those particularly unusual designs that made it into production, most likely in very small numbers.

The block-shaped markers give the silver soleil dial a completely different character. What makes them especially cool is the mirror-like filling inside each marker, which catches the light and changes dramatically depending on the angle — from bright white to almost black. It creates an almost funky, three-dimensional effect that makes the dial feel surprisingly modern, even today.

There is no applied lume on the dial or hands, which only adds to the clean and slightly futuristic appearance. It is a Datejust, but certainly not one that disappears into the crowd.

The watch itself is in amazing sharp condition, with a super-fat case, crisp fluted bezel and a strong folded Jubilee bracelet, Ref. 6251H, with end links stamped 55 and a clasp marked 4 68 — a lovely period detail.

The watch and its slow-setting movement have been fully serviced by our watchmaker and are ready for many more years of wrist time.

An out-of-the-ordinary Datejust with a fascinating connection to Singer’s design world. Unusual, slightly funky and full of the kind of details that make vintage Rolex collecting so much fun.Lets talk about this rare and cool SingerJust !

Specifications:

Rolex Datejust Reference 1601
Rare Block Markers dials (after singer prototype), no lume
36mm steel case with white gold Fluted bezel
Serial 180xxxx dates to 1968
Jubilee bracelet 6251h with 55 end links
Slow setting movement
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Free worldwide shipping

Rolex Datejust 1601 rare No Lume Singer Block Markers dial

Rolex Datejust 1601 rare No Lume Singer Block Markers dial

Before/after