Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph, ref: 16263. P Serial-2000

A Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph, ref: 16263. P Serial-2000.

This is a watch with a great deal of history. Like many of Rolex’s icons, the Turn-O-Graph debuted in the 1953, the same year that saw both the Explorer and the Submariner launch. And it was the Turn-O-Graph which was to be the first serially-produced Rolex fitted with a rotatable bezel, a feature that would go on to be used so effectively in the company’s dive and travel watches.

On the Turn-O-Graph, the surround is engraved with a 60-minute scale, and could be used as an immediate way of measuring elapsed time. Simply lining up the hour, minute or second hand with the zero mark on the bezel gave an instant reading of how much time had passed, and qualified the model as Rolex’s first purpose built tool watch.

This is the 16263 reference which was withdrawn from the Rolex catalogue completely in 2011. It was available in several variations and featured the updated Rolex Cal. 3135 movement. A few rarer versions were produced, such as this Jubilee dial variant, with the word Rolex printed in a repeated pattern across the whole of the watch face, and created to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Datejust in 1983.

This example mixes solid 18k yellow gold and stainless steel, on the both the head of the watch and on the updated 78363 bracelet.

Condition:-

This piece is in stunning, pre-owned and unmolested condition. The case shows only minor signs of careful use, with the thick lugs retaining their factory shape and factory brushing. The reference number & serial are still perfectly clear.

The dial and bezel are superb and the sapphire crystal is perfect.

The crown is the Rolex original item and the screw-in caseback is also original to the watch, retaining its factory brushing.

The bi-metal bracelet sows only very little stretch, as one would expect from a hollow centre link oyster bracelet, such as this. The clasp remains tight, with the Rolex coronet very prominent and unpolished.

This piece comes from the original owner, and benefits from retaining all its original booklets, punched papers, outer and inner box, original price tag, hang tag and spare links.

Movement:-

This watch had a full service 2 years ago, by my Rolex trained and accredited watchmaker. It has been used very little since. Therefore, the movement is running very strong indeed. The screw-down crown functions perfectly, as one would expect.

I guarantee the authenticity and the working order of this piece at the time of sale, and will offer a 6 month extended warranty. And although this is an Oyster-cased sports watch and has been tested as such, please don’t rely on it being waterproof. It is not warrantied as being waterproof.