My First Vintage Watch: Rolex Datejust Reference 1603

By Amon Rosenzweig

This Rolex Datejust reference 1603 was my first vintage watch. My father, David Rosenzweig, gave it to me when I was 13 years old. No, it was not for any specific occasion or monumental experience, but my father and I were digging through his old jewelry box when we came across this watch with a scratched up crystal and a stretched-out Jubilee bracelet amongst other mementos, pins, and cufflinks. My eyes opened wide as I saw the most reassuring word I had ever seen written across the pearly, silver dial: ROLEX. I picked it up and handed it to my father: “I can’t believe you have this!” My dad handed it back to me and said, “Here, you can wear this.” My mouth was agape as I felt my fingers run across the engine-turned steel bezel and felt the smooth movement of the Jubilee bracelet.

Flashes of my father wearing a suit in New York City checking his watch to see if he was on time for a meeting - which he probably wasn't - filled my mind. While this moment between my father and I was more of a casual interaction rather than a grand gesture, it was fitting in a sense given the nature of my father, as well as the relationship I would have with this watch. This watch has been in my life, nonchalantly, every step of the way for all of my important accomplishments since I received it. Fast forward eight years later, the watch is still with me everyday, and even joined me on my first day as an intern at Wind Vintage. After some much needed ultrasonic cleaning, a new crystal, and a new gasket, the watch has been completely transformed and looks better than ever. It is even water resistant, not that I am bringing it into the pool with me at The Breakers!

This Rolex is more than just a watch; it inspired my passion to learn about watches. It inspired my internship this summer. And I hope to casually hand it to my future son one day saying “Here, you can wear this.”