Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref 1500, Grey mosaic dial from 1972

Maker: Rolex
Model: Oyster Perpetual Date
Reference: 1500
Year: 1972
Dial: Grey Mosaic
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 34 mm diameter; 12 mm thickness
Crystal: plexiglass
Lume: Yes, tritium
Caliber: Caliber 1570 automatic-winding movement
Bracelet: original Rolex steel oyster bracelet reference 7835-19 with end-links 357
Serviced: December 2024. Currently running at +9.1 s/d
Lug Width: 19 mm
Box/Papers: None

Few watches are as fundamental to the history of Rolex as the Oyster Perpetual. The story begins in 1926, when Rolex introduced the Oyster — the world’s first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch, featuring a hermetically sealed case designed to protect its movement from the elements. In 1931, Rolex introduced its patented Perpetual rotor, creating the combination of a waterproof Oyster case and self-winding movement that would become the foundation of the Oyster Perpetual family.

More than a century later, the Oyster Perpetual remains one of the purest expressions of the original Rolex philosophy: robust, highly functional and remarkably restrained in design. The formula has changed surprisingly little over the decades, making vintage Oyster Perpetual models particularly appealing to collectors who appreciate the origins of Rolex's iconic design language.

This particular example, a 1972 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 1500, offers something considerably more unusual than the standard silver or champagne dial. It features an original grey mosaic dial, an uncommon and particularly attractive variation that gives the otherwise understated Oyster case an entirely different character.

The intricate mosaic pattern catches the light beautifully, shifting subtly as the watch moves on the wrist. More than simply a different colour, the texture gives the dial a depth and visual interest rarely found on these understated vintage Rolex models. 

Another distinctive feature is the engine-turned bezel. The finely machined pattern adds just enough texture and definition to the case without compromising the clean, utilitarian character of the Oyster design. Combined with the unusual mosaic dial, it gives this ref. 1500 a particularly compelling vintage aesthetic.

This Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref 1500 from 1972 is in overall excellent condition. Although the case was likely polished in the past, it retains full thick lugs with its beautiful oyster case lines in great shape. The original grey mosaic dial is in beautiful condition with no blemishes or discoloration. The lume plots are all full and developed a nice cream colored patina. The original hands shows some aging consistent with its age. The crystal has some scratches but nothing major. The Oyster bracelet continues to prove that it is one of the most comfortable bracelets. It is in great condition for its age and has some stretch. The numbers between both sets of lugs are clearly visible. The case, dial, movement, crown, and bracelet are all signed by Rolex. The bracelet can fit up to a 17.5 cm (6.9 inch) wrist. The movement was serviced by its previous owner in December 2024 is currently running at +9.1 second/day at the upright position. 

Ships from Japan