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Lot #2663

Rolex Datejust 16220 Blue Buckley Dial

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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

$3,000 – $5,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

36mm

Model

Datejust

Movement

Automatic cal. 3135

Reference

16220

Bracelet

Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet

Year

2005

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Blue

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Boasting a stunning blue dial with white-painted Roman numerals, this ref. 16220 features the so-called "Buckley" dial, named after New Jersey-based watch dealer John Buckley. Please note that the dial is of genuine Rolex manufacture, but is earlier than the watch and not period correct. It was fitted for aesthetic reasons by the previous owner.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Featuring an entirely stainless steel construction, this example sports the Datejust's iconic Jubilee bracelet and the since-discontinued stainless steel engine-turned bezel.

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. There are scratches along the polished sides of the case, as well as some marks along the bezel teeth and surface. Please Note: The dial is an earlier dial that someone has fitted into the watch. It is of genuine Rolex manufacture, but not "period correct". The dial is in excellent overall condtion, with light signs of aging, including imperfect luminous plots. There is an engraving present along the edge of the caseback. Watch comes on a bracelet with 21 links total, 4 of which are removable. It fits a 7 3/4" wrist. Watch is not keeping time as shown on the timing machine readout and a service is advised.

Our Perspective

Boasting the Datejust's iconic design, the since-discontinued engine-turned bezel, and a stunning blue Buckley dial, this ref. 16220 is a beautiful example of a neo-vintage Datejust.

Sam Hines

Managing Director