The original turn-o-graph was launched in the 1950s, the Ref. 6202 could have been considered the brand's first tool watch as it featured a rotating bezel, marked with a 60-minute scale to give the ability to quickly measure elapsed time. The watch's original similarities to the Submariner disappeared by the second generation of the watch and whilst it retained its rotating bezel it changed from being a black aluminium insert into embossed metal, finished off with an engine-turned design, and the watch also gained a date function.

By the end of the decade, the Turn-O-Graph had captured the attention of an elite group of aviators, the USAF aerobatics squadron, ‘The Thunderbirds’, and it became, at their request, the official timepiece of the unit. The watch was renamed the Rolex Thunderbird for the North American market.

What's on Offer

The Datejust comes in many guises and this particular reference is a rather opulent take on the popular classic. The perfect watch for the high-rolling yuppies of the 1980s, this Thunderbird has now become a rather collectable piece and this example is in superb condition. The gold textured Tuxedo dial is incredibly sharp and features applied baton hour indexes with luminous pips, stick hands with luminous inserts and a date wheel underneath a magnifying cyclops at 3 o'clock. The dial is encapsulated underneath an acrylic crystal and framed by a solid 18k gold Rolex diver bezel on stainless steel case. The watch is powered by the  27-jewelled Rolex cal.3035 COSC automatic movement.

A sports luxe 18k gold and stainless steel Rolex Turn-O-Graph ref.16253 Thunderbird, a great addition to any collection, we are pleased to offer this beautiful watch for sale in such wonderful condition.