Rolex Date Gilt Tropical Dial 1501A Tropical Date With Rolex The 34mm Rolex watches offer great value for a classic Oyster, especially if they have an unusual element. On this example the black gilt dial has turned a beautiful tropical brown a stunning twist to this already very cool watch. Early black dialed watches from Rolex feature, what collectors refer to as, gilt dials. The gilt dials feature a glossy finish like a black mirror and when this black paint ages, it can turn brown