Vintage Datejust 36 Oyster Quartz

The Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust 17013 represents one of the most fascinating chapters in Rolex history. Produced during the height of the quartz era, the Oysterquartz combined Rolex’s legendary build quality with cutting-edge technology and an unmistakably angular design that still feels modern.

Introduced in the late 1970s, the Oysterquartz was Rolex’s answer to the global quartz revolution that transformed the watch industry. Rather than outsourcing movements, Rolex spent years developing its own in-house quartz calibre, resulting in the highly respected Calibre 5035 found inside the reference 17013. Unlike mass-produced quartz watches of the era, the Oysterquartz was finished and assembled to the same exacting standards as Rolex’s mechanical models, featuring a beautifully engineered movement with a frequency of 32 kHz and exceptional long-term reliability.

The reference 17013 pairs stainless steel with 18k yellow gold, creating the classic two-tone aesthetic that defined luxury sports watches throughout the 1980s. Its sharply faceted Oyster case and integrated bracelet give the watch a bold architectural look often compared to the iconic luxury sport designs of the era. Combined with the champagne dial and fluted yellow gold bezel, the result is a watch that perfectly captures vintage Rolex style while standing apart from traditional Datejust models.

Today, the Oysterquartz has become increasingly sought after by collectors for its relatively limited production numbers, unique case design, and important place in Rolex history. Unlike standard Datejust references, the Oysterquartz offers a completely different wrist presence with its integrated bracelet and angular silhouette, making it one of the most distinctive Rolex watches ever produced.

This piece presents as watch only with box.

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