The allure of a vintage Rolex lies not only in its robust engineering and enduring legacy but also in the subtle, often unpredictable, variations in its dials. Among the most sought-after and debated are those with dials described as "obsidian." While Rolex never officially used obsidian – a volcanic glass – in their dial production, a handful of watches exhibiting a deep, dark, almost black dial with intriguing variations in tone have earned this moniker. These watches, often featuring a mesmerizing play of light and shadow, have become highly collectible, fueling a passionate pursuit amongst vintage Rolex enthusiasts. This article delves into the world of these enigmatic "obsidian" dial Rolexes, exploring the models associated with this elusive aesthetic, the challenges in authentication, and the factors driving their desirability.
The Mystery of the "Obsidian" Dial:
The term "obsidian dial" in the context of vintage Rolexes is, to a large extent, a colloquialism. There's no official Rolex documentation confirming the use of obsidian in any of their watch dials. The dials often labelled as obsidian typically display a very dark, almost black, coloration, often with subtle variations in shade that contribute to their unique character. These variations might include hints of brown, green, or even a bluish hue, depending on the angle of the light and the age of the watch. The mystery stems from the uncertainty surrounding the exact material and the process that created this distinctive look. Some believe these dials are the result of a discoloration process, where the original dial material has aged or reacted to environmental factors, resulting in its unique dark hue. Others speculate about potential variations in the dial's original composition or manufacturing techniques. This ambiguity contributes significantly to the intrigue and collecting appeal of these timepieces.
Rolex Models Associated with "Obsidian" Dials:
Several Rolex models are frequently associated with the "obsidian" dial aesthetic, although the exact nature of the dial material remains a point of contention. These include:
1. Rolex “1601 Obsidian” Datejust: The Rolex Datejust reference 1601 is perhaps the most frequently mentioned model associated with obsidian dials. These watches, typically produced between the 1960s and 1970s, present a deep, dark dial that exhibits the characteristics often attributed to obsidian – a rich, almost black colour with subtle tonal shifts. The condition and age of the dial greatly influence its appearance. A well-preserved example might show a relatively uniform dark colour, while a more aged dial might show more pronounced variations in tone, adding to its unique appeal.
2. Rolex Datejust 1600/8 'Obsidian': Similar to the 1601, the Datejust reference 1600/8 also occasionally features dials described as obsidian. These watches, produced slightly earlier than the 1601, often exhibit a similar deep, dark colour, albeit with potentially different variations in shading. The subtle differences in the dials across these reference numbers highlight the complexities of dial aging and the difficulties in definitively categorizing them.
3. 1968 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Tropical Onyx Dial 1601: The term "tropical" is used to describe dials that have undergone a color change due to sun exposure or other environmental factors. In this context, the "tropical onyx" dial of the 1601 represents a specific type of discoloration resulting in a dark, almost black appearance. This exemplifies the potential for a dial to evolve over time, acquiring a unique and highly desirable aesthetic.
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