This is a rare example of the Rolex Ref. 1603 featuring the “bamboo bezel,” which was only used for a short period of approximately one year following the model’s introduction in 1960. It is fitted with a black gilt dial and dauphine hands. The dial shows numerous surface cracks, giving it a textured, matte appearance. Depending on the lighting, the dial can display a slightly yellowish tone.
The watch is fitted with the rare Ref. 7206 (no clasp stamp) / 80 bracelet, originally intended for sports models, with a clasp stamp from the second quarter of 1962. While some stretch is present, the bracelet remains in very good condition for an early 1960s example. The movement is the automatic Caliber 1560, featuring the early “butterfly rotor” configuration found only on the earliest versions.
