Lot #1407
Rolex Datejust Made For The Saudi Arabian Marketing and Refining Company
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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
Box and Papers
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
1990
Condition
Very good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, box and papers
Dial Color
Silver

THE DIAL
Beautifully aged, this dial's color has transformed from a solid silver to include various hues of gold. This incredibly rare dial also includes the Samarec logo. Samarec, the Saudi Arabian Marketing and Refining Company was dissolved in 1993 and rolled into Saudi Aramco, which created the world's largest oil firm.

THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring an entirely stainless steel construction, this example sports a jubilee bracelet and the since-discontinued 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
In very original well preserved condition, the dial has aged where a large section to the left has turned brown. The dial is also signed Samarec. The lumes are intact and the case is still very crisp with strong proportions and only light surface wear. The bracelet with light surface wear and 20 links in bracelet, 3 removable. 2 extra links on the side. The watch is also complete with box and punched guarantee.
Our Perspective
While this ref. 16220 is unassuming at first with its stainless steel construction; it quickly reveals itself as an exceedingly rare watch thanks to its beautifully aged and co-signed Samarec dial.