Introduction
Initially launched in 1953, the Rolex Turn-O-Graph's release sparked an exciting turning point in the brand’s rich horological history. Considered Rolex's first serially produced tool watch, the Turn-O-Graph was iconic for its eponymous feature; its bidirectional rotatable bezel. Armed with such a useful function, the Turn-O-Graph was designed to measure and record time much like a chronograph. Marketed to international business travellers, the Turn-O-Graph was presented as a tool to perform quick calculations due to its bezel. As such, the Turn-O-Graph was chosen by the United States Air Force’s aerobic squadron, the Thunderbirds, to aid in their pilots' navigational calculations. Recognizing the opportunity, Rolex marketed the Turn-O-Graph as the "Thunderbird" in the North American market. As sales for the Turn-O-Graph began to decline following the Submariner and GMT-Master’s launches due to their similar design and heightened utility, the Turn-O-Graph name only remained in use until the early 1960s before it was discontinued. As such, original Turn-O-Graph references have become increasingly sought-after thanks to their brief yet meaningful impact on Rolex’s evolution as a watchmaker. Offered here we have the Thunderbird ref. 1625, the last original Turn-O-Graph model to be given Thunderbird moniker by Rolex. Produced from 1959 until 1977, the ref. 1625 marked the bulk of Turn-O-Graph’s history as we know it thanks to its long production run. Offered in a selection of metals from stainless steel with just an 18kt white gold bezel, stainless steel, two-tone and even full 18kt yellow like we have it here, the ref. 1625’s engine-turned rotating bezel and Jubilee bracelet combine to create an alluring timepiece that we can’t help but fawn over.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$6,000 – $10,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Datejust Turn-O-Graph "Thunderbird"
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
1625
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold Jubilee bracelet
Year
1978
Condition
Near-Mint
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Gold
THE DIAL
Featuring a beautiful golden dial with equally beautiful gold hour markers and hands, the ref. 1625 that we have here is an intensely elegant timepiece that extends beyond its design as a tool watch and into the realm of pure luxury.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Boasting an 18kt yellow gold construction and an elegant Jubilee bracelet, the Turn-O-Graph merges its functional design influence with Rolex's desire to create luxury timepieces that exist beyond their original use-case.
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 near-mint condition, showing only minor signs of surface wear. Crystal has a few scratches, but the dial is near-mint with little visible marks. Case is thick and full, and bezel is sharp and well defined. Bracelet has 24 links, 5 removable. There is little stretch.
Our Perspective
An iconic watch that is rich with history off the back of its genuine impact on Rolex's evolution as a watchmaker, the ref. 1625 Thunderbird is the unsung hero of Rolex's historical tool-watch offering on account of it being the basis for models like the Submariner, GMT-Master and more.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
