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, full 18kt yellow gold, and even two-tone, as 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. In addition, this example's dial is co-signed by Tiffany & Co., making it even rarer and more desirable.

Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case has some scratches and small nicks, as expected of a watch of this vintage, and shows signs of a previous polish. There is minor loss of metal in the inner corner of the edges from end piece wear. The yellow gold bezel is well defined and the gold insert has gentle wear around the edges. The champagne pie-pan dial is excellent, with crisp text including the additional Tiffany & Co. signature, though some lume plots are damaged. The hands have developed a pleasing patina to the gold. The watch is fitted with a steel and gold Jubilee bracelet with some surface marks and light play and notching between the links. It has 17 links, with 1 additional link included, and fits approximately a 7 1/4” wrist.

An iconic watch that is rich with history, due to the genuine impact it has had 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.