The Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust ref. 17000 is one handsome and uniquely designed timepiece. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Quartz timepieces were dominating the market, and yes, even Rolex was affected by what is now known as the "Quartz Crisis".

It would be a mistake to think that quartz watches were an afterthought for Rolex, even despite Rolex's strong dedication to mechanical movements, Rolex began to realize that this type of product could establish itself on the market. This proved to be a fact in the following years to come. The Rolex Oysterquartz production range having lasted less than 3 decades makes the entire range of Rolex Oysterquartz highly sought after and extremely collectible. It has been estimated that less than 25,000 total Oysterquartz watches were ever produced by Rolex, which is a metric across all references.

The design of the Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust is far removed from the classic models of the 1970s and 80s and carries with it the design characteristics of the period from which it hails. The angular case and integrated Oyster-style bracelets are utterly unique and almost architectural in appearance. The Rolex Cal. 5035 11 jewel quartz movement is built as one would expect from Rolex, of technical advancement but with a bespoke build and finish.

SPECS

CASE & BRACELET

The strong and geometrical case has been very gently polished in the past and maintains the originally intended design with bold chamfers down the case and bracelet. The smooth stainless steel bezel is in excellent condition, showing no notable wear. The integrated Rolex 17000B Oysterquartz bracelet retains 11 links that show no stretch and will fit up to a 7-inch wrist. The bracelet comes with two additional links as well.

DIAL & HANDS

The silver sunburst dial is flawless, showing no age or damage. The tritium lume plots exhibit no degradation when inspected under UV light and feature a handsome, yet subtle ivory patina. The original tritium hands also show no degradation and have aged a shade darker than the dial. The metallic date wheel is original with "open" 6's and 9's.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is keeping time perfectly and just received a new battery.