The Watch
The Datejust has remained Rolex’s mainstay model since the brand introduced it in 1945. When it comes to popularity, the steel Oyster case and Jubilee bracelet combination is at the top of the pecking order for its sleek appearance and versatility. The Submariner dates back to the 1950s, the GMT as well, but no classic Rolex has a richer history than the Datejust.
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The example we have here is from 1984 and is the highly regarded 16030. When it was launched in the late 1970s, the ref. 16030 represented the next generation of the fluted bezel Datejusts. Transitioning away from the ref. 1603 of the last generation, the then-new 16030 helped introduce to the Datejust design family a contemporary flat dial, a wide array of new and reimagined dial styles, and an upgraded mechanical movement that helped secure the watch a lasting place in Rolex's catalogue for years to come.
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The 16030 was one of the first Datejust references to feature the Rolex Caliber 3035, replacing the Calibers 1565 and 1575 mechanisms used throughout the 160X reference series run. The 3035 boasts a quickset date function, which is universally loved for the convenience of not having to scroll through 24 hours to change the date.
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Perhaps the jewel in the crown of this wonderful DJ, is the uncommon Taupe Dial, which is extremely pleasing to the eye. Seems to change colour with the light. Smashing Dial.
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This guy comes on a solid-link Oyster bracelet bracelet ref 78360 with 555b end links. The clasp code is "R5" which we believe dates the Bracelet to May 1993.
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View this Taupe Beaut in a video: here
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The Specs
Age: c.1984.
Reference: 16030.
Serial Number: 8XXXXXX
Movement: Automatic with Hacking Seconds and Quickset Date Function. Set by position 2, Anticlockwise.
Calibre: 3035.
Timekeeping: Keeping Excellent Time.
Service History: Serviced 2022.
Dial: Original Rolex Taupe Factory Dial.
Case: All Stainless Steel
Measurements: Without/With Crown: 36mm/38.5mm End of lug to lug: 44mm
The Specs
Age: c.1984.
Reference: 16030.
Serial Number: 8XXXXXX
Movement: Automatic with Hacking Seconds and Quickset Date Function. Set by position 2, Anticlockwise.
Calibre: 3035.
Timekeeping: Keeping Excellent Time.
Service History: Serviced 2022.
Dial: Original Rolex Taupe Factory Dial.
Case: All Stainless Steel
Measurements: Without/With Crown: 36mm/38.5mm End of lug to lug: 44mm
Bezel: Wonderful Fluted Bezel.
Water Resistant?: No.
Hands: Original Handset.
Crystal: Genuine Rolex Replacement Crystal fitted during service.
Crown: Original.
Strap/Bracelet: Rolex solid-link Oyster bracelet bracelet ref 78360 with 555b end links. The clasp code is "R5" which we believe dates the Bracelet to May 1993. Fits approx 7.25in Wrist with no spare links.
Lug Width: 20mm
Hands: Original Handset.
Crystal: Genuine Rolex Replacement Crystal fitted during service.
Crown: Original.
Strap/Bracelet: Rolex solid-link Oyster bracelet bracelet ref 78360 with 555b end links. The clasp code is "R5" which we believe dates the Bracelet to May 1993. Fits approx 7.25in Wrist with no spare links.
Lug Width: 20mm
Getting Acquainted
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Bits that stand out:
- Taupe Dial.
- Quickset Date.
- Fluted Bezel.
- Excellent Lugs.
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Nitty Gritty:
-Some minor Scratches throughout the Case and Bracelet.
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Nitty Gritty:
-Some minor Scratches throughout the Case and Bracelet.
-Circular mark to Caseback.
- One small mark to dial by the "12"
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Overall the Datejust is in Lovely Vintage condition.
The Case and Bracelet have some small marks but nothing major at all.
The Caseback has a circular mark in the middle. We are happy to remove this for you if you wish.
Case retains original finish.
Crown screws down nicely and tightly.
Crystal is Genuine Rolex and in lovely condition.
The Dial is in lovely Vintage Order and looks absolutely fantastic on the Wrist.
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Fantastic Rolex Investment.
Fantastic Rolex Investment.