Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph , 16263

We are proud to present this collectable Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph ‘Thunderbird’ watch for sale in mint condition, fully checked and authenticated in our accredited workshop. 

Launched in 1953, the Rolex Turn-O-Graph preceded the two other iconic Rolex watches that are famous for their rotating bezels – the Rolex Submariner and the Rolex GMT-Master. Since the newly introduced bezel offered great practically by allowing wearers to time different types of events, the Turn-O-Graph is also considered by some to be the first Rolex tool watch. In the late 1950s, the U.S. Air Force’s Thunderbird aerobatic squadron equipped their pilots with the Turn-O-Graph watches for navigational calculations. Rolex took full advantage of this opportunity and produced the “Thunderbird” Turn-O-Graph watches.

This version, the reference 16263 was produced in 1988 and was discontinued in 2004 making it quite rare. It comes set in a polished 36mm stainless steel Oyster case with an 18ct yellow gold bi-directional engine-turned bezel, which features raised numeral markers every 10 minutes around the bezel. The dial is a champagne sunburst with 18ct yellow gold hands and Roman numeral hour markers, as well as a black printed minute track around the chapter ring. The dial is protected by a sapphire crystal glass with the signature cyclops lens and has a screw-down crown which allows for a water resistance of 10atm (100m/330ft). The watch is powered by the automatic calibre 3135 chronometer rated movement and comes fitted on the iconic Rolesor (18ct yellow gold and stainless steel) Jubilee bracelet with folding steel clasp.

Originally purchased in July 2000 and in mint condition for its age, this Turn-O-Graph comes with its original inner and outer Rolex boxes, Instruction booklet, Oyster booklet, translation booklet, calendar card and its punched international warranty certificate. This Rolex is sold with a 12-month warranty from the date of sale.