A reference 16233, 36 mm Rolex Datejust, fitted with the rarer bi metal oyster bracelet, and complete with later inner and outer boxes.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the case serial number between the bottom lugs we can accurately date this watch to being made in 1992.
CONDITION
The Datejust has been a staple of the Rolex range since its 1945 introduction, when it was the first automatic winding watch to have a date window that changed automatically at midnight – a feature that is now standard in so many watches today. You can still buy a bi metal 36mm Datejust new, for £8,650.
The range has been continually developed since its launch. This model, 16233, was first introduced in 1988 and the most noticeable upgrade was the use of sapphire crystal over the previous acrylic crystals. The movement was also uprated, and the calibre 3135, 31 jewel movement powered many Rolex models for the next 20 years. There is a good technical write up on these movements here. The most important feature to most people will be that this movement has quick set date. The case has a few small marks, but the 18k bezel is still in good shape. You more commonly see the Datejust on a jubilee bracelet*, but the far rare Oyster bracelet was a deciding factor in us choosing this particular watch.
This watch is in very good order. Just light scuff marks on the case and bracelet which are to be expected. The sapphire crystal is clean but has tiny nibbles near eight and nine. The box is perfect, and the outer box shows just the right amount of wear and tear to show it isn’t brand new but Rolex watches in 1992 did have more basic boxes than this, so this is a later genuine Rolex box.
*Back in 1945 Jubilee was considered initially as an alternative name to the Datejust, as the watch was designed by Rolex to celebrate their 40th anniversary. Instead the Datejust name was chosen, and it featured the first Jubilee bracelet.
This watch will be supplied with the original presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
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SIZE
Width with crown 37.9 mm
Width without crown 35.7 mm
Between lugs 20 mm
Lug to lug length 43.5 mm
Case Thickness 11.6 mm
Bracelet will fit a maximum wrist size of 197 mm
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.
