Rolex 1601 Datejust 18k Malachite 1968

Nature’s Rarest Signature — Malachite Meets the Rolex Datejust

Few vintage Rolex watches command presence like this: a 1968 Datejust Ref. 1601 in solid 18k yellow gold, featuring an extraordinary Malachite stone dial — one of the rarest and most visually captivating dial variants ever fitted to the iconic model.

Each Malachite dial is cut from natural stone, meaning no two are alike. This example showcases rich green banding and deep organic texture, made even more striking by the warmth of the fluted gold bezel and matching gold hands. Though faint hairline cracks are visible upon close inspection — typical for Malachite — the dial retains a bold and cohesive visual impact.

Completing the piece is a same-year 1968 solid gold Jubilee bracelet (ref. 4/68), a nearly impossible pairing to source. With its refined proportions, legendary automatic Caliber 1570, and unmistakable presence, this Datejust isn’t just a Rolex — it’s a statement of individuality and rarity.

- wrist size in our picture is 18cm circumference -

DIAL:

• original never touched Malachite stone dial in great condition
  
• dial has several hairline cracks, but hardly noticeable with the pure eye 
• original hands & crown
  

BRACELET & CLASP:

• original Rolex 18k yellow gold Jubilee Bracelet (4/68) with some more stretch is fitting up to 18.5 cm wrist size / 2.7 mm thick
• original Rolex 18k yellow gold clasp

CASE:

• excellent overall condition, showing minor traces of use
• 3- body 18k yellow gold case with screw-down case back from Genex SA
• 36 mm (without crown) / 44 mm (lug-to-lug) / 20 mm (between lugs) / 11.7 mm thick
• year: 1968
• reference: 1601
• total weight: 112 g

MOVEMENT:

• Rolex Automatic Caliber 1570 
• 25 jewels, 19800 A/h, 48 hours power reserve
• professionally serviced 05/2025
• +5 sec/d / 260°
• No movement pictures, because it was pressure tested.

BOX & PAPERS:

• GOLDAMMER certificate of authenticity & service documentation card
• GOLDAMMER box

GOLDAMMER REFERENCE: #953