Rolex

1978 Rolex Two-Tone Datejust (Ref. 16013) Champagne "Tiffany & Co." Dial

The Rolex Datejust is one of the most iconic and most beloved Rolex watches ever made, even though the Datejust was launched in 1945 it has remained a timeless classic and is instantly recognizable as an item of refined quality and functional design. The Datejust can be worn just as easily with a suit as it can be with jeans and a tee shirt.

One of the largest evolutions for the Rolex Datejust model lineup was at the end of the 1970s with the introduction of the first "flat dial" Datejust. The movement was vastly upgraded to the Rolex cal. 3035 quick-set movement. These Datejust variations are often referred to as "transitional" as they still feature the more classic acrylic crystals and tritium lume whilst housing many advancements. 

“Tiffany & Co.” signed Rolex watches are the elusive and forever desirable variants of our favorite models offered by the horological house. Beginning in the late 1950s, Tiffany & Co. began printing their name on the dials of watches from various Swiss brands that were sold through their retail locations. Though they worked with a variety of brands in this era, the “Tiffany & Co.” co-branded Rolex are by far the most talked about, well-known, and collected amongst the lot, and for good reason. The relationship between Tiffany and Rolex carried on until the 1990s when Tiffany & Co. entered into an exclusive partnership with Patek Philippe. Interestingly, the Tiffany & Co. logos were printed by hand at the Tiffany Location in New York City, not by Rolex.

Stock # RLXDJ16013TIF-2
Brand Rolex
Style Datejust
Model 16013
Serial 53XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel / 14K Yellow Gold
Dial Champagne "Tiffany & Co."
Millimeters 36
Bracelet Rolex Two-Tone 78363 Oyster Bracelet W/ 458J End Pieces

 

CASE & BRACELET

The exceptional case retains crisp, full, and symmetrical lugs that show minimal evidence of previous polishing and honest wear from use. The original 14K yellow gold fluted bezel is believed to remain unpolished and has achieved a vibrant patina with colors that range between orange, red, purple, and blue for a stunning effect. The era-correct Rolex two-tone 78363 Oyster bracelet with 458J end pieces dates to 1980 and is potentially the original bracelet to the watch. The bracelet retains 12 links that show minor stretch and will fit up to a 7 1/4-inch wrist. The case also features the signature hand-engraved "Tiffany & Co." stock number on the back of the bottom right lug.

DIAL & HANDS

The original champagne sunburst "Tiffany & Co." co-branded dial is virtually flawless, showing no damage or age whatsoever. The tritium lume plots have taken on a lovely golden-beige patina and exhibit no degradation under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands perfectly match the dial with no degradation under UV light inspection. The metallic gold date wheel is an early service unit with closed 6's and 9's.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is keeping time, previous service history is unknown.

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