111 Rolex In Incredible Conditions, Very Fascinating and Colorful, Datejust, Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, With Diamond-Set Lapis Lazuli Dial, Reference 16 018

Estimate: €25,000 –⁠ 50,000

Sold (Premium)€27,300

Model: Datejust
Reference: 16 018
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1985
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 3035
Case N°: 9026396
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case

Rolex has always loved experimenting and daring in its productions using the most particular materials to make absolutely unique dials. These creations are now at the center of a whirling interest from collectors and anyone looking for something rare and unusual. In some cases it is not necessary to be an expert to be able to appreciate certain details on a dial, and this is even easier when the whole dial is special: Rolex has therefore produced models of Datejust and Day-Date with some hard stones, such as onyx, malachite, tiger eye, meteorite or coral, all very appreciated and sought after. But if someone has to try and choose one of the most appreciated materials, it would probably stand out the Lapis Latzuli dial like the one mounted on this watch. The present watch is a rare example of a Datejust reference 16 018 fully produced in 18k yellow gold. The whole case is preserved in absolutely nice conditions with very deep and crisp hallmarks under the lugs. On this specimen has been mounted a catching Lapis Latzuli stone: one important thing to underline is that due to their fragile nature many of these dials used to break during their production and only a real expect could work on these types of materials. Moreover, it was very problematic also its application on the watch which needed all the attention and experience of a watchmaker, it follows that even the production costs were quite high, bringing these specimens to be highly sought after by collectors. The delicate stone dial features an aperture for the date at 3 o’clock, and gorgeous yellow-gold hour and minute hands with sweep centre seconds. The whole watch is in totally attractive conditions and striking at every single glance.