1965 Rolex Date Matte Black 1500 Chronometer Papers

Make - Rolex

 

Model - Date

 

Case: 34 mm

 

Reference - 1500

 

Movement: Cal. 1560

 

Year: 1965

 

Bracelet - Rolex Oyster 78350 with 557 end links

 

Accessories - Company watch pouch, Box, Chronometer papers, Guarantee papers

Dating to 1965, this Rolex Date reference 1500 is a beautifully preserved example that captures a pivotal moment in Rolex dial evolution. Housed in a classic Oyster case and paired with a later 78350 Oyster bracelet, the watch presents exceptionally well, with only very light stretch—exactly what collectors hope to see.

 

The standout feature is the factory-original matte black dial, a comparatively uncommon variant that bridges the transition from earlier gloss gilt dials to the fully matte executions of the late 1960s. The dial is signed in silver gilt script and fitted with long tritium indices marked T Swiss, complemented by crisp baton hands. The dial overall is in excellent condition with some ageing between 11 & 12 on the seconds track. The luminous material has aged evenly to a warm, pleasing lemon hue, adding depth and character without distraction.

 

Further enhancing its appeal, the watch retains its original open-6 and open-9 date wheel, correct to the period and increasingly difficult to find intact. Even more rare is the accompanying original chronometer papers and guarantee, with documented delivery to Italy—a level of provenance seldom encountered on a Date reference of this age.

 

Examples like this, combining condition, correctness, and documented history, are becoming increasingly scarce. A refined and honest vintage Rolex, offering both quiet elegance and serious collector credibility.