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
2006
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Blue
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: The dial is an earlier dial that someone has fitted into the watch. It is of genuine Rolex manufacture, but not "period correct".
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
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 case is very well defined, with surface scratches and a couple of small nicks. The case back has some light scratches, a few marks, and a presentation engraving. The engine-turned bezel remains crisp, with some light scuffs. The blue dial is excellent, though most of the lume plots are missing. 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 luminova hands are very clean. The watch is fitted with a solid link Jubilee bracelet that shows light scratches, a very well-defined coronet on the clasp, and light play between the links. The bracelet currently fits a 6 3/4” wrist, and is fitted with 17 links.
Our Perspective
Fitted with a stunning blue Buckley dial and boasting the Datejust's iconic design with its since-discontinued stainless steel engine-turned bezel and Jubilee bracelet, this ref. 16220 is a beautiful example of a neo-vintage Datejust.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
