Preliminary identification

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Reference 1500 in 14k Yellow Gold, c. 1970s

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

A classic vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date wristwatch in solid 14k yellow gold, reference 1500 (stamped 1500 inside the caseback). It features a sunburst champagne dial, cyclops date magnifier at 3 o'clock, and is powered by a Rolex automatic caliber 1570-series movement.

Story

Rolex produced 14k gold models specifically for the North American market to navigate strict luxury import tariffs. This classic Date 1500 showcases a genuine Swiss caliber alongside its original hallmarked gold case.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, Rolex revolutionized horology with the introduction of the waterproof Oyster case in 1926 and the self-winding Perpetual rotor in 1931. The Reference 1500 became one of the brand's quintessential mid-century models, epitomizing daily luxury and precision.

Condition & Value

Visible surface scratches across the acrylic crystal, case, and bracelet consistent with regular wear. Movement shows clean finishing and intact reversing wheels, but service history is unconfirmed. General vintage wear is typical for its age.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.