Rolex Datejust Ref. 16018
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1979
Maker / issuer
RolexThis 1979 Rolex Datejust, reference 16018, is constructed from 18K yellow gold and measures 36mm in diameter. It is equipped with the Rolex calibre 3035 movement, which introduced the quick-set date function.
The watch features a sapphire crystal and retains its tritium lume. The exterior includes an 18K yellow gold fluted bezel and an 18K yellow gold Jubilee bracelet with solid end pieces, containing 21 links. The blue sunburst dial has developed a gold-flecked 'tropical' patina. The auction description reports that the case remains in unpolished condition with an oxidized patina and that the case back retains a partial original factory sticker.
The metallic date wheel features 'open' 6 and 9 numerals. This watch is sold without accompanying accessories.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Dial
- Blue Tropical
- Type
- Datejust
- Year
- 1979
- Brand
- Rolex
- Serial
- 61XXXXX
- Bracelet
- 18K Yellow Gold Jubilee
- Movement
- Rolex cal. 3035
- Reference
- 16018
- Case Material
- 18K Yellow Gold
- Maker / attribution
- Rolex
Design
- Dial and Hands
- The watch features a sunburst blue dial that has undergone a process of discoloration resulting in a gold-flecked tropical patina across its surface. The indices and hands retain their original tritium lume, which has aged to a golden-beige tone. A metallic gold date wheel is visible through the crystal, characterized by the presence of open 6 and 9 numerals. Under UV light inspection, the dial is reported to be free of damage, with the exception of minor lume loss on the 3 o'clock plot. The crystal is identified as a sapphire component, distinguishing this reference from earlier iterations.
- Visible features
- • Blue dial with gold-flecked patina • 18K yellow gold fluted bezel • Jubilee bracelet with solid end links • Cyclops lens over the date aperture
- Case and Bracelet
- The 18K yellow gold case measures 36mm and is reported by the auction description to be in an unpolished condition. The exterior surfaces of both the case and the Jubilee bracelet display an oxidized dark patina. The fluted bezel, also crafted from 18K yellow gold, matches the condition of the case. The attached 18K yellow gold Rolex Jubilee bracelet features solid end pieces and consists of 21 links. The auction description states that the bracelet exhibits almost no stretch and can accommodate a wrist size of up to 8 inches. Additionally, the case back remains partially covered by its original factory sticker.
- Movement and Functionality
- The timepiece is powered by the Rolex calibre 3035 movement. This movement is notable for the inclusion of a quick-set date function, allowing for independent adjustment of the date display. The watch is described as keeping time according to the provided internal standards. The reference 16018 is categorized as a transitional model within the Datejust line, as it combines features of both vintage and modern Rolex production, specifically by utilizing the sapphire crystal alongside the tritium dial elements.
Identification
- Reference
- 16018
- Serial number
- 61XXXXX
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The exact serial number is partially obscured in the source as 61XXXXX
- Research required: The source does not explicitly state the country of manufacture, though it mentions Rolex