Introduction
Released to celebrate Rolex's 40th anniversary in 1945, the Rolex Datejust has become one of the Genevan Giant's most iconic watches. The world's first wristwatch to display the date via an aperture on the dial, the Datejust revolutionized wristwatch design for decades to follow. With its emblematic Cyclops lens, jubilee bracelet (designed specifically for the model in 1945), and classy fluted precious metal bezel, the Datejust's aesthetic has always been that of pure elegance and class. Perhaps one of Rolex's most recognizable designs, the Datejust has evolved from its dressier roots into a perfectly capable timepiece rivaling the robustness of most brand's sports watches. Featuring a stainless steel case with a screw-down crown and caseback, the Datejust packs an impressive 100m of water resistance alongside its consistently capable movements and construction that have enabled it to become one of the best-equipped watches for daily wear and tear. Available with several different dial options, in a multitude of materials, and across many styles, the Datejust is an inescapable reflection of its owner, with a model out there to suit pretty much everybody's tastes and preferences.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, Papers, Hang Tags, Booklets
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Datejust
Movement
Automatic cal. 3035
Reference
16014
Bracelet
Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
Year
1987
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel and 18kt white gold
Included
Watch, Box, Papers, Hang Tags, and Booklets
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Offered with a beautifully aged silver linen dial, this example's monochromatic aesthetic is highlighted all the more by the striking contrast between its creamy yellow lume plots and luminous hands against the subtle crosshatch pattern that gives this dial its name.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring one of the Datejust's most characterful vintage constructions, this example's Jubilee bracelet and 18kt white gold fluted bezel match perfectly as they both catch the light wonderfully and make the entire aesthetic rather jewel-like.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
The watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case has some light scratches and scuffs as expected of a watch of this vintage, with signs of a previous polish. The white gold bezel remains well defined with light marks. The silver linen dial is excellent, with intact lume plots and just a couple of minor surface marks. The hands have light marks but clean lume. There are a number of scuffs and scratches on the acrylic crystal. The solid-link Jubilee bracelet shows light play between the links and some surface marks on the links and clasp. The bracelet has 17 links and fits an approximately 6 1/2” wrist, with 6 additional links included. The watch comes complete with inner and outer boxes, punched papers, document holder, booklets, calendar card and hangtags.
Our Perspective
A milestone Datejust variant, the full set linen dial ref. 16014 that we have here is a splendid example of fine Rolex watchmaking with its elegant styling, luxurious materials, and industry-leading mechanics for its time.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
