1962 Rolex Datejust Serpico Y Laino with Special Bracelet Ref. 1602

Serpico Y Laino

A retailer that needs no introduction in the Vintage Rolex world – Serpico Y Laino was the probably most famous Venezuelan retailer at the time who was also known to be one of the best watch retailers in South America.

Here is a rare and well-preserved Rolex Datejust reference 1602 in yellow gold that was sold by Serpico Y Laino. The watch dates back to 1961 and has a beautifully factory-decorated case with the meticulously fine hand-engraved morellis finish on the bezel and lugs. The geometrical motif is something that usually fades over the years be it by wear or by polishing but we can confidently say that the finishing is still deep and extremely well-preserved considering the watch is 65 years-old. The overall condition of the case is excellent and we can see deep hallmarks and engravings on the case back.

The bracelet is special and unlike anything that we have seen so far – a brick-tile construction with polished elements on the sides and engraved tiles in the middle creating a beautiful effect in the light. To mention here is that the construction of the bracelet feels very sturdy as opposed to other ‘special’ bracelets from Rolex. The clasp is decorated with a nice Clous de Paris finishing. We believe that this bracelet was made by SyL in Caracas as a measure to beat the high import taxes for gold at the time.

The Silver dial with Wide Boy markers is in beautiful condition showing the retailer’s double stamp signature at 12. The surface of the dial is well preserved and so are the luminous dots that have gained patina from age and are also matching with the Dauphine hands.

The case and bracelet are showing beautiful rosy hues from gold oxidation transforming this marvel to a unique Datejust.

We can safely say that this Datejust is nothing short of a masterpiece - the entire configuration screams old wealth of a time when the oil boom had taken over South America and clients requested only the most lavish watches. Many exceptional and rare gold watches had come out of South America and this Datejust is definitively is among our top favorites from the time.