52 Rolex Very Well Preserved and Rare, Datejust, Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Made for the Royal Saudi Arabian Forces, Reference 16 018

Estimate: € 5,000 –⁠ 10,000

Model: Datejust
Reference: 16 018
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1985
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 3035
Case N°: 9 219 827
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case

Since the launch of the Rolex Datejust in 1945, the date-only model has become one of the brand’s most recognizable timepieces. The epitome of a classic wristwatch, the Datejust model boasts a wide array of innovative dial variations. Among the many iterations, preserved in excellent overall condition, the present reference 16 018 is a rare example of an 18K gold watch supplied to the Royal Saudi Arabian Forces. A long-standing tradition in Middle Eastern countries, wristwatches has long been used as tokens of appreciation on behalf of ruling monarchs. The fascination of the Arab world with fine timepieces is further highlighted by the fact that some military institution and governmental departments requested and obtained bespoke timepieces bearing insignia or department names on the dial. The present watch perfectly exemplifies this practice. Manufactured in yellow gold and preserved in incredible condition, the dial of this timepiece is special having been personalized with the Royal Saudi Arabian Forces crest at 6 o’clock.