Datejust Turn-O-Graph

Case and Material
The Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph reference 16253 features a 36 mm stainless steel case combined with a rotating bezel in 18-karat yellow gold. This bezel is not only a visual highlight but also functional, making the watch a blend of elegant dress watch and sporty tool watch. The plexiglass lends the watch its authentic vintage character, while the screw-down crown ensures proven water resistance.

Dial and Functions
The champagne-colored dial gives the model a refined appearance. Gold baton indexes with tritium luminous dots and the simple hands create a harmonious overall look. At 3 o’clock is the date display with the signature Cyclops lens. Thanks to the rotating bezel, the watch can also be used for simple time measurements – a distinctive feature that sets the Turn-O-Graph models apart from the classic Datejust.

Movement
Inside beats the proven automatic caliber 3035, known for its reliability and precision. It offers quick-set date adjustment, which greatly facilitates everyday use, and a frequency of 28,800 semi-oscillations per hour.

Bracelet
The watch is fitted with a classic Jubilee bracelet in stainless steel and yellow gold, perfectly complementing the elegant overall appearance. As is common with many vintage models, the bracelet may show some stretch over the years – a typical sign of original wear character.

Condition and Accessories
The watch presented here is from the 9.4 million series and is therefore dated to 1987. Depending on the offering, original accessories such as box and papers may be included, which can further increase the collector’s value.

Special Features & Historical Context
The Turn-O-Graph is considered a pioneer of Rolex sports models. Introduced as early as the 1950s, it was the first Rolex with a rotating bezel and thus laid the foundation for icons such as the Submariner or GMT-Master. In the 1980s, reference 16253 enjoyed particular popularity as it combined the classic elegance of the Datejust with sporty functionality.