Servicing the Rolex Ref. 1500 Oyster Perpetual Date Cal. 1570 automatic

This Rolex Ref. 1500 Oyster Perpetual Date, powered by the Caliber 1570 automatic movement, received a thorough service. The movement was fully disassembled, with each component ultrasonically cleaned and inspected. Jewel holes were polished using peg wood to ensure smooth pivot performance and reduce friction. The escapement received a treatment of Fixodrop, applied to minimize oil migration and enhance long-term stability. The movement was then reassembled with high-quality synthetic oils, precisely regulated, and tested for consistent accuracy. The solid gold case was cleaned and not polished, preserving its original lines and vintage character while removing any surface residue. The result is a well-performing timepiece that maintains both mechanical integrity and aesthetic authenticity.

For more information on initiating the repair of your Rolex see getting started, and additional information on rolex servicing in general. Further reading: Choosing where to have your watch repaired.

Before disassembly:

Minor scratches from previous removal of band pins
Screw marks from previous service
Some minor scratches on movement
Watchmaker marks from previous service in 2009 (?)

Disassembly before cleaning:

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1570 movement
Balance and cap jewel
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1570 movement
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1570 movement
Power train
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1570 movement
Winding pinion with dried grease
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1570 movement
Automatic module
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1570 movement
Hack lever
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1570 movement
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1570 movement
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1570 movement
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1570 movement
Dried grease on set lever
Upper escape wheel cap jewel removed

Reassembly after cleaning

Oiling of pallet jewels
Close up of oiled pallet jewels
Most wear happens in the setting works, plenty of grease provided
Oiling the upper balance jewel

Rolex Ref. 1500 history

The Rolex Ref. 1500 Oyster Perpetual Date with a solid gold case is a classic and elegant variation of one of Rolex’s most enduring models. While most examples were made in stainless steel, Rolex also offered the model in 14k and 18k solid gold, appealing to those who wanted a dressier version of the reliable Oyster Perpetual Date. It featured a 34mm Oyster case, screw-down crown, acrylic crystal, and a simple date display at 3 o’clock—retaining the essence of Rolex’s utilitarian elegance. Solid gold variants are especially prized today for their blend of understated luxury and everyday wearability, making them a favorite among collectors seeking vintage refinement with lasting performance. The caliber 1570, Introduced in the 1960s and produced through the 1970s, was one of Rolex’s most respected automatic movements.