The Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust 17013, particularly in its striking blue dial variant, represents a fascinating chapter in the storied history of the Swiss watchmaking giant. While Rolex is predominantly known for its meticulously crafted mechanical movements, the Oysterquartz collection, launched in the late 1970s, marked a bold foray into the then-emerging world of quartz technology. This article delves into the specifics of the 17013, focusing on the blue dial version, exploring its history, design, functionality, and enduring appeal within the collector's market. We'll examine its technical specifications, consider reviews from enthusiasts and experts, and address common questions surrounding its maintenance and longevity.
Model Name/Number: Datejust OysterQuartz 17013
The reference number 17013 immediately identifies this timepiece as belonging to the Oysterquartz line. The "Datejust" designation highlights its calendar complication, a feature that displays the date through an aperture at the 3 o'clock position. The model's design seamlessly integrates the practicality of quartz accuracy with the classic elegance associated with Rolex's Datejust lineage. This marriage of technology and tradition is a key element of the 17013's unique character.
Serial/Year: 5,9XX,XXX - 1979 - 1980
Serial numbers within the 5,9XX,XXX range place the production of this particular Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust 17013 squarely in the late 1970s to early 1980s. This period represents the peak of the Oysterquartz line's production, before the shift back towards a primary focus on mechanical movements. Owning a watch from this era offers a tangible connection to a specific moment in horological history, a time when Rolex was experimenting with and mastering cutting-edge quartz technology.
Gender: Men's
While many Rolex models offer unisex options, the 17013 is generally considered a men's watch. Its case size, typically 36mm, while not oversized by today's standards, was considered a standard size for men's watches during its production period. The overall design aesthetic, with its robust case and bracelet, further reinforces its masculine appeal.
Movement: Quartz movement, Quickset date.
The heart of the Oysterquartz Datejust 17013 is its high-precision quartz movement. Unlike the meticulously hand-finished mechanical movements Rolex is famous for, this movement utilizes a battery-powered quartz crystal to regulate timekeeping. This results in exceptional accuracy, far surpassing that of even the most finely adjusted mechanical movements. The "quickset date" function allows for easy adjustment of the date, a convenient feature often absent in older mechanical watches. The movement itself, a testament to Rolex's engineering prowess, is a highly reliable and durable mechanism, known for its longevity and resistance to shock and magnetic fields. The caliber number, often not explicitly stated on the dial, is crucial for identifying the exact movement variant used, further enhancing the specificity of the watch's identification and provenance.
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