142 Rolex Very Fascinating and Fine Datejust Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Reference 16 238, With Sweep Center Seconds, Date and Blue Monogram Jubilee Dial

Estimate: € 8,000 –⁠ 16,000

Model: Datejust
Material: Yellow Gold
Reference N°: 16238
Year: 1989
Case N°: L982888
Caliber: 3135
Movement type: Automatic
Bracelet: Yellow Gold
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, case and movement

When facing a Rolex Datejust the “anniversary” theme is constantly present. Because the first ever Datejust model was presented to the world in 1945 and created to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Rolex brand. On this occasion the iconic Jubilee bracelet was also introduced, which from that moment on was inextricably linked to the “just date” model. Advancing until 1985, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Datejust and the 80th of the brand, Rolex decided to introduce another version of the Jubilee, no longer a bracelet but a special dial featuring a repetitive “Rolex-Rolex” pattern engraved on the entire surface of the quadrant. Useless underline the high level of craftsmanship needed to realize such an impeccable dial not only for the tri-dimensional pattern itself, but also for the application of the gold numerals on such an uneven surface. The lot offered here is a specimen of reference 16 238 with jubilee bracelet consigned in nearly as-new condition, with unpolished case showcasing perfect edges and proportion: the mark of a timepiece that has hardly ever seen a wrist in its life. The dial features the Jubilee decoration in a very electric blue with allover the Rolex pattern, applied yellow gold arabic numerals, printings and hands. Rolex still produces the Jubilee dial today, and over the years the logo motif has appeared in a wide range of colors varying from black to white, from pink to champagne but the blue one remains one of the most appreciated ones for its capability of giving a hint of color to someones wrist.