Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust 17000 Rare Original Set

This Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust Ref. 17000 stands out with its flawless silver sunburst dial and an exceptionally extensive set of original accessories. The watch was originally sold on December 23, 1983, by the Rolex authorized dealer Manlio Schreiber in Brescia, Italy.

The Oysterquartz – Rolex's Answer to the Quartz Crisis

During the 1970s, the Swiss watch industry came under enormous pressure as a result of the so-called Quartz Crisis. While many manufacturers turned to inexpensive standard quartz movements, Rolex chose a completely different approach.

With the introduction of the Oysterquartz Datejust Ref. 17000 in 1977, Rolex unveiled a fully in-house development. Rather than using an existing quartz movement, the company engineered its own high-precision Caliber 5035, which became COSC-certified as a chronometer from 1981 onward — an accolade achieved by only a handful of quartz watches at the time.

The Oysterquartz also differs significantly from a conventional Datejust in terms of its design. Virtually every component was newly developed. The distinctive angular case, flat case flanks, and integrated stainless steel Oyster bracelet give the watch its unmistakable character and perfectly reflect the bold design language of the late 1970s.

An Underrated Rolex Rarity

The Oysterquartz remained in production only from 1977 to approximately 2001, with very few changes throughout its entire production run. After discontinuing the model, Rolex never introduced a successor. To this day, it remains the only standalone quartz watch line ever produced by Rolex in series.

Original Accessories

One of the highlights of this watch is its extensive set of original accessories. Coming directly from its first owner, it offers a highly valuable collector's package. Unfortunately, the original chronometer certificate was stored separately from the watch and has been lost over the years.

The watch is accompanied by its original Rolex Quartz Warranty / Battery Card. Issued for reference 17000 with serial number 7552xxx, the card bears the stamp of the former Rolex authorized dealer Manlio Schreiber in Brescia, Italy, and documents the original sale on December 23, 1983. The reverse side features the note regarding the complimentary battery replacement during the warranty period — a characteristic detail of early Rolex Oysterquartz models.

Also included are the original Rolex outer box with the correct reference sticker and silver dot indicating the silver dial, the original Oysterquartz presentation box, the original Rolex hang tag with the watch's serial number, two Italian Rolex brochures, and the original 1983/1984 Rolex calendar.

The combination of its historical significance, outstanding condition, and original accessories makes this Oysterquartz Ref. 17000 a highly collectible vintage Rolex.

Condition Report
Dial: Flawless condition – original crisp sunburst finish – original tritium luminous material in the hour markers and hands – signed "Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified T Swiss Made T".

Case: Excellent condition – only minimal signs of wear – sharp bevels and crisp edges – serial number stamped inside the caseback – original screw-down Rolex Twinlock crown.

Movement: Rolex quartz Caliber 5035 (COSC) – operating perfectly.

Bracelet: Original integrated Rolex Oysterquartz bracelet – very light signs of wear – reference 17000B – clasp code K3 – adjustable wrist size from approximately 18.5 to 20.5 cm.

Serial number: 7552xxx

Int.Exe.: 413501