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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Datejust

Rolex Datejust Ref. 16018

Partially verified

This 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.

Front view of the 1979 Rolex Datejust 18K YG, showing the sunburst blue 'tropical' dial and fluted bezel.
Front view of the 1979 Rolex Datejust 18K YG, showing the sunburst blue 'tropical' dial and fluted bezel. — Craft & Tailored. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
craftandtailored.com
Category
Wristwatch · Datejust
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
16018
Catalogue / lot identifier
RLXDJ16018-2
Source-reported date
1979
Source-reported place
Not established
Source-reported serial
61XXXXX

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

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.

Evidence for this section
  • “The incredibly crisp, near-mint, 18K yellow gold case remains in unpolished condition, featuring a perfectly oxidized dark patina throughout the case and bracelet”
  • “The unpolished case back partially retains its original factory sticker.”
  • “The original 18K yellow gold Rolex Jubilee bracelet with solid ends retains 21 links that show almost no stretch”

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.

Evidence for this section
  • “The beautifully aged sunburst blue dial has achieved a remarkable gold fleck "tropical" patina”
  • “The metallic gold date wheel is original with "open" 6 and 9 numerals.”
  • “the only element of degradation is some lume loss to the 3 o'clock plot, which is very common.”
  • “it retains tritium lume but features a sapphire crystal”

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.

Evidence for this section
  • “The Rolex Datejust ref. 16018 is a transitional reference as it retains tritium lume but features a sapphire crystal and the Rolex cal. 3035 “quick-set date” movement.”
  • “The watch is keeping time perfectly”

Open research questions

  • What is the full serial number of this specific timepiece?
  • Does the original factory sticker on the case back match production records for 1979 models?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Datejust Ref. 16018
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
BrandRolex“Brand Rolex”
Reference16018“Model 16018”
Year1979“1979 Rolex Datejust”
Case Material18K Yellow Gold“Material 18K Yellow Gold”
MovementRolex cal. 3035“Rolex cal. 3035 “quick-set date” movement”
DialBlue Tropical“Dial Blue "Tropical”
Bracelet18K Yellow Gold Jubilee“Bracelet Rolex 18K YG Jubilee Bracelet W/ Solid End Pieces”
Serial61XXXXX“Serial 61XXXXX”

Visible details

  • Blue dial with gold-flecked patina
  • 18K yellow gold fluted bezel
  • Jubilee bracelet with solid end links
  • Cyclops lens over the date aperture

Research qualifications

  • The exact serial number is partially obscured in the source as 61XXXXX
  • The source does not explicitly state the country of manufacture, though it mentions Rolex

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت Rolex Datejust 18K YG (Ref. 16018) با صفحه آبی «Tropical» مدل ۱۹۷۹

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 513292e5cb

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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