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, 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 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Datejust Turn-O-Graph
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
1625
Bracelet
Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
Year
1976
Condition
Escellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Grey
THE DIAL
Featuring a beautiful ggrey dial with equally beautiful white gold hour markers and hands, the ref. 1625 that we have here is an intensely elegant timepiece with a monochromatic aesthetic that is entirely understated.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Boasting a stainless steel construction with an elegant Jubilee bracelet, the Turn-O-Graph merges its functional and utilitarian design influence with Rolex's desire to create elegant 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 excellent overall condition, with the case showing only light signs of wear. Turning bezel and insert are sharp and crisp, and the dial retains its original cramy luminous dots in perfect condition. Watch comes on a jubilee bracelet with 20 links, 3 of which are removable. There is light 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
