Latest Vintage Piece

1984 Rolex Turn-O-Graph Thunderbird Datejust 16253. $8,000.00 CAD. 505-00638

I’ve been baffled ever since I saw my first Turn-O-Graph; why isn’t this model more popular? In fact it’s never been a top seller since the 1953 introduction, but I think it is one of the best Rolex designs. The Turn-O-Graph is the true do it all design, especially so in two-tone configeration. It seems only very few appreciate the added functionality of the two way timer bezel. Most who have purchased a Datejust opt for the simple fixed fluted bezel variety. I’m sure even Rolex can’t figure out why it hasn’t been more successful. They persisted with the model updating it for over 5 decades until it was recently retired around 10 years ago. Although not the most profitable watch from Rolex, it is notable for a number of reasons. It was the first watch to introduce the idea of the rotating timer bezel way back in 1953. It is considered the father of the wildly successful Submariner diver model. It was also the first professional pilot watch. In the 1950s it was used by pilots for navigational calculations. Later in the same decade it became the official watch of the US Air Force acrobatic Thunderbird display team. The Turn-O-Graph is also known in North America as the Thunderbird due to this association. Our example appears to be in original condition, showing far less wear than you’d expect from a watch over 40 years old. According to the 7.4 million serial number the watch dates from around 1983. The silver dial with 18 karat yellow gold hour markers and hands is dressy enough to wear to any black tie event, but also can be casual and sporting. The polished 18 karat gold centre links of the Jubilee bracelet are all luxury along with the solid 18 karat gold textured rotating timer bezel. The 20 link bracelet shows some sag and a touch of stretch but has many decades of life remaining. The dial and hands are perfect, every one of the tritium marker plots is completely intact showing just a touch of tan patina. The plastic crystal has a few light scuffs and scratches but they can easily be polished away while you wait. This watch has a vintage look with modern features like quick set calendar setting with high-beat/hacking movement. For every vintage Turn-O-Graph you encounter, expect to see close to 20 of the common Datejust 16013 of era that are currently on the market. The rotating bezel of the Thunderbird gives the watch a slightly larger presence on the wrist compared to a regular 36mm Datejust. This watch does not come with an original box or documents. Including a one year complimentary Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers warranty this uncommon Rolex watch is estate priced at $8,000.00 CAD. Stock #505-00638.

view more vintage pieces