Datejust 16013 ‘Smokey Black’

We are thrilled to offer this clean Rolex Datejust 16013 ‘Smokey Black’ from 1981. This stainless steel and 18k yellow gold Datejust is one of the most famous and identifiable Rolex watches ever produced, and fellow watch-enthusiasts will immediately recognize it as a true Rolex classic.

Despite being worn practically every day for the past 43 years, the previous owners preferred a slightly loose fit around the wrist, thus the original Jubilee bracelet is still in a nice condition. The stainless steel links show no wear and tear against the 18k golden center links, and even though there is some stretch (which is normal with watches from this era and age) this Jubilee bracelet will last you another 5 decades. The case, bezel and dial are all in a beautiful condition and form, and that magnificent black dial with it’s glossy lacquer finish and warm golden ‘stick’ indices, remains near new and shows us a taupe/brown hue when the dial is exposed to sunlight. The latter is something we’ve seen before with these early 5-digit references with glossy black dials, and always reminds us of 1960’s Gilt dials cause it has that same warmth and depth to it, not too mention this style has a more exclusive appearance when compared to other 16013 Datejust watches out there.

The stainless steel case has thick lugs with sharp lines; a close inspection reveals that these parts have not received much polishing. The 18k yellow gold fluted bezel is sharp and clean, with the lovely warm radiation of vintage gold. The Tritium dots at the end of the hour-markers have a charming custard colored patina that complements the Tritium inside the hands. The date-disc on this vintage Datejust is still the original one, with all ‘open’ 6 and 9 numerals in a beautiful serif script. When worn on the wrist, the 18k yellow golden indices and hands provide a stunning contrast to the pristine smokey black dial and serve up a dish of warmth when exposed to the sun. The general condition of this Datejust reveals that it was treasured as a prized possession. After 43 years, this two-tone Datejust is looking for a new home – I am convinced she will be a fantastic and surprising addition to someone’s existing watch collection, or as someone’s very first vintage Rolex.

This vintage Rolex Datejust 16013 ‘Smokey Black’ has been professionally serviced by our certified watchmakers in accordance with stringent Rolex factory specifications, and will be sold with our extensive two year warranty.

reference: 16013
case number: 670XXXX
year of production: 1981
case diameter: 36mm
movement: self-winding, Rolex caliber 3035
box and papers: no

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