- Brand: Audemars Piguet
- Model Name // Number: Royal Oak // 14790ST
- Year: 1994
About this Model: The Datejust is the most ubiquitous Rolex on Earth. It debuted in 1943, has been in ceaseless production since, and comes in untold varieties. Along with the 1601, the 1603 is one of the two most popular ‘4-digit’ references that Rolex made from the 1960s to 1980s. The 1601 and 1603 are essentially the same watch with the former having a fluted bezel and the latter an engine-turned variety. At 36 mm, and with a 20 mm bracelet, it’s a perfectly sized entry Rolex for anyone looking to start a collection.
About my Example: It’s pretty obvious that this isn’t your run-of-the-mill Datejust. It started out with a dark blue dial and, through the heat, sun, and humidity of the Louisiana bayou, turned into this stunning starburst pattern of orange and purple. Given that it lived it’s life just outside New Orleans, my friend Rob dubbed this the “Mardi Gras Datejust,” which I think suits it well. I’ve seen a few Datejusts with similar star bursting but each takes on a unique appearance and this one, in my biased opinion, is the best I’ve seen.
Rolex GMT Master 1675 