1/16
Lot #2268

Rolex Datejust 16203 Blue Saudi Logo Dial Two Tone

How do I bid? Start here

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

M 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$4,000 – $6,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

36mm

Model

Datejust

Movement

Automatic cal. 3135

Reference

16203

Bracelet

Stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold Oyster bracelet

Year

2000

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Blue

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Boasting the ouse of Saud coat of arms at 12 o’clock, this Datejust's blue dial marks its designation as a watch that was ordered by the Saudi Arabian royal family as a special order watch destined to either be worn by members of the royal family or gifted to someone that the royal family saw fit, such as a foreign dignitary.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Offered on the harmonious pairing of Rolex's Oyster bracelet and a flat bezel, this example's two-tone construction has ample opportunity to showcase the rich patina that its golden parts have developed.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
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

Watch is in excellent overall condition. Case has full lugs and sharp edges. Gold parts including the center links and bezel have a warm patina visible, with some light hairlines and marks that can be seen on the center links. Blue dial with gold print has the Saudi logo at 6 o'clock. It is near mint, showing no signs of degredation. Bracelet has 11 links, 1 of which is removable. There is little to no stretch.

Our Perspective

Aesthetically unique thanks to the rich patina that its gold elements have developed and culturally significant thanks to its Saudi dial, this example is a wonderful celebration of what it means to collect vintage timepieces.

Eric Ku

Co-founder