Introduced in 1945 and in production ever since, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust has become an iconic symbol of success and style. Boasting perfect proportions, a simple dial layout and a robust movement, it's pretty much the perfect ultimate do-anything, go-anywhere watch.
All Original
Rolex Datejust Ref. 16014
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In 1977, Rolex redesigned the Oyster case to house the new caliber 3035 automatic movement with quick-set date feature. At the same time, the Datejust received a highly scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, resulting in the classic look of the Datejust that is still in production today.
Reference 16014 features a stainless steel case with fluted, solid 14K white gold bezel and matching dial, a combination that radiates understated elegance. It's arguably the closest thing to a Rolex Day-Date, a.k.a. President, at a fraction of the cost.
I bought this Rolex on January 21, 2008 -- almost a decade ago -- for $1,526.00 via eBay auction from the Guildmark Group, a highly reputable jeweler located in Dayton, Ohio. It is a 100% original watch, and the seller described its condition as "mint." Its condition hasn't changed, but its value has about doubled since.
I have the original purchase invoice, the Certificate of Authenticity, and the original Rolex Warranty Card for this watch.
According to the Rolex birth certificate, this Datejust was first sold November 1, 1979 in Kowloon, which is part of Hongkong, and was back then, 38 years ago, still a British Crown Colony, under the protection of her Majesty the Queen of England.
Fascinating history!
While many watches can be a little too big here, or a little too small there, the Datejust features perfect proportions, embracing the wrist with its thin and tapering 36mm trademark Oyster case. And while recent horological trends have favored larger wristwatches, the age of the giant watch is now behind us, making the original Datejust a pleasantly stylish yet timeless option that fits the bill.
The crown is a screw-in Twinlock winding crown, ensuring water and pressure resistance of up to 100 meters, or 330 feet.
The dial is the face of the watch, and thus its condition is of paramount importance. Here the original dial is simply perfect in every aspect, despite its age of 38 years.
To the best of my knowlege, the indexes are also made of solid 14K white gold on the 16014, but since there's no consensus about it on the Internet, I'm not entirely certain on it.
Reference number is 16014 is engraved in the 12 'o clock position.
Serial number *5553596* dates to 1978 and is engraved in the 6 'o clock position. All numbers match.
I have never worn this watch with the Jubilee bracelet, but only on a black crocodile strap with Rolex buckle, which IMHO gives it a more elegant appearance.
Consequently, the original Jubilee bracelet is absolutely pristinely preserved, having spent the past decade in a cozy place.
There is almost no stretch to note.
Case back is super nice, with no signs of careless opening. Both end links are #555, which is 100% correct for this watch.
There are 17 links, plus 2 additional links that belong to this bracelet, for a total of 19. sufficient for a 7-1/2" wrist, give or take 1/8th of an inch.
I had the watch serviced twice during my stewardship. Once the crown tube was replaced, but other than that it has been dead reliable.
The watch runs strong and without any issues. It is 100% authentic and 100% correct, exactly the way it was made in 1978.
I also have another Rolex Datejust, that belonged to my late father.