The Rolex Datejust 1500, a stalwart of the 1970s, represents a significant chapter in Rolex's history. These watches, embodying the robust elegance characteristic of the era, are now highly sought-after vintage pieces. However, their age often brings with it the need for a careful understanding of their mechanisms, particularly when it comes to setting the date. This article will delve into the intricacies of setting the date on a 1970s Rolex Datejust 1500, drawing upon the collective knowledge shared within online communities like Rolex Forums and addressing common concerns regarding vintage Rolex watches from this period.
Understanding the Rolex 1500 and its Movement:
Before we proceed to the practical aspects of date setting, it's crucial to understand the watch's internal workings. The Rolex Datejust 1500 typically houses a caliber 1570 or a similar automatic movement. These movements are known for their reliability and precision, but they require a gentle hand, especially given their age. Unlike modern Rolex movements with quickset date functions, the 1570 (and its variants) usually lacks this feature. This means that setting the date requires a more involved process than simply pushing a button.
The absence of a quickset date function necessitates moving the hour hand around the dial to change the date. This is a deliberate design choice reflecting the technology available during the 1970s. While seemingly cumbersome compared to modern quickset mechanisms, this method contributes to the watch's overall robustness and minimizes the risk of damage to the delicate date mechanism. Understanding this fundamental difference is paramount before attempting to adjust the date.
The Procedure for Setting the Date:
The process of setting the date on a 1970s Rolex Datejust 1500 involves carefully and patiently advancing the hour hand. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Crown Position: First, unscrew the crown carefully. Avoid forceful twisting, as this could damage the delicate crown tube or the movement itself. Unscrew the crown gently until it disengages from its screwed position.
2. Pulling the Crown: Pull the crown out to the first position. This position allows you to wind the mainspring. While winding is not directly related to setting the date, it's a good practice to ensure the watch has sufficient power reserve before attempting any adjustments. Wind the watch fully, feeling a slight resistance once the mainspring is fully wound. Avoid over-winding, as this can damage the movement.
3. Pulling the Crown Further: Next, pull the crown out to the second position. This position engages the date and time setting mechanism.
4. Setting the Date: Now, the crucial step. Do not attempt to rapidly turn the crown. Instead, slowly and steadily turn the crown in a clockwise direction. The date will change as the hour hand moves around the dial. Each full rotation of the hour hand advances the date by one day. Be patient and methodical; rushing this process can lead to damage.
5. Setting the Time: Once the date is correctly set, slowly and carefully adjust the time by turning the crown. Again, avoid rapid movements.
6. Returning the Crown: Once the date and time are correctly set, gently push the crown back into its original position. Ensure it's fully screwed down to maintain water resistance.
Troubleshooting Common Issues:
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