In 1982 the Rolex Datejust looked a bit dated, as the fashion was for smaller, thinner cases featuring quartz movements. So finding one with the full set of boxes, papers and hangtags is even harder. Model reference 16030.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the Chronometer certificate, which matches the serial number between the bottom two lugs, we can accurately date this watch to being made in 1982.
CONDITION
In 1982 Rolex and most other top end brands were facing problems. The quartz crisis was hitting hard, and brands were struggling. Breitling had just been sold, and other watchmakers were closing. Technically, quartz was better and cheaper, and the trend was for ever thinner and lighter watches. The Datejust had been around for 37 years already, and may have looked, well, dated.
However history tells us that Rolex had the last laugh. By never cutting corners, Rolex kept their integrity whereas some other brands did lose theirs. (Rolex did make a quartz watch, the Oysterquartz, but this was never a cheap watch.) The problems for vintage watch collectors is that if Rolex didn’t sell many in 1982, there are even fewer 1982 Rolex watches now. What makes this Datejust stand out is that it not only has the box and chronometer certificate, but it also has the outer box, the hang tag with the serial number and the chronometer hang tag. The case is unpolished, and the Jubilee bracelet is long and has been cleaned in our ultrasonic bath. The dial, all original, is close to perfect and the calibre 3035 movement is still keeping chronometer time (+4/-6 seconds per day). The date wheel also has the open 6 font so liked by collectors, and the quickset date does work. The crystal is acrylic, and has a small scratch above the date magnifier. You might see cheaper Datejust models (as well as far dearer ones), but we doubt you will find better value for money than this package.
This watch will be supplied with the original presentation box, papers and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 38.4 mm
Width without crown 35.2 mm
Between lugs 20 mm
Lug to lug length 44.3 mm
Case Thickness 12.7 mm
Bracelet will fit a maximum wrist size of 200 mm. The bracelet can be sized for you if you give us your wrist size when placing the order.
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 6 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
