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Lot #4438

Rolex Datejust Boilergauge Steel 16014

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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 and two additional links

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

1985

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel

Included

Watch and two additional links

Dial Color

White

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Boasting a bright white "Boiler Gauge" dial with applied Arabic numerals and a chapter-ring on the inside as opposed to along the dial periphery, this ref. 16014's display is wonderfully unique.

THE CONSTRUCTION
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
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 overall excellent condition. The steel case has some light scratches and marks, particularly on the crown side, and the case back has some nicks. The white gold bezel is well defined. The white so-called “boiler gauge” dial is near mint, with clean and intact lume dots and very clean hands. It is fitted with a solid link Jubilee bracelet showing some scuffs and light play between the links. The bracelet has 19 links, 2 of which are removable, with 2 additional links included, and fits approximately a 7 1/4” wrist.

Our Perspective

A beautifully designed timepiece that has proven just how timeless good design can be, the Datejust has aged through the decades like a fine wine, with well-preserved examples like this ref. 16014 only becoming more and more desirable, and that's before you throw an unusual dial into the mix.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder