Manufacturer: Rolex Year: 1977 Reference No: 16018, stamped 16000 inside the case back Case No: 5'283'860 Model Name: Datejust Material: 18k yellow gold Calibre: Automatic, 3035 Bracelet/Strap: 18k yellow gold, Rolex Oyster, end links stamped 76 Clasp/Buckle: Folding clasp Dimensions: 37mm. Diameter Signed:Case, dial and movement signed Accessories:Rolex guarantee dated 22nd January, 1980
Catalogue Essay
Reference 16018 was the first Datejust reference available with sapphire crystal. The present example is certainly one of the most exclusive versions as it fitted with the highly sought after lapis lazuli hard stone dial. Rolex’s use of hard stone dials on Day-Date and Datejust models is recognizable by the gold frames used around the apertures on the dial. In addition to the highly attractive dial, the Oyster bracelet mounted on this model is a rarity by itself and is presented in near mint condition. The case is extremely well-preserved, free of polishing, and the green sticker is still present to the case back. All of these factors render the present example a true collectors watch and one that both the novice or demanding collector can appreciate together.
Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.
One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.