1989 Rolex Datejust Ref. 16234 Cream dial Unpolished with Box and Papers

The Datejust debuted in 1945 as the reference 4467, the first automatic watch with a date. It was crafted entirely of 18K yellow gold, possessed a minimally fluted bezel (closer to a coin-edge texture), and in fact did not display the word “Datejust” on its dial.

 

The Datejust reference 16234 was released in the 1980s and remained in production until the mid-2000s. Available in several dial variants, the 16234 is most easily recognized by the fluted bezel that gives the watch a dressier feel.

The example offered for sale here is a beautiful and rare variation Rolex Datejust Ref. 16234 with cream Roman numerals dial that dates to 1989.

 

The dial is in great condition, showing little wear with only one very minor mark a few millimeters above the bottom text. The tritium lume plots are all present, featuring a light patina and matching with that on the original hands.

 

The case remains unpolished, showing sharp bevels and some normal signs of wear. The 18K white gold fluted bezel is also great shape. The case back remains in the same condition too, letting visible normal signs of use.

 

It is suited on its Rolex Oyster 78360 solid-links bracelet with 558 B end links and clasp code N12 that presents little stretch and some normal wear.

 

The watch is running great and keeping time, although service history is unknown.

 

Furthermore, it comes as a full set, including outer box with reference sticker, inner box, manuals, calendar, wallet, hang tag and stamped guarantee papers showing it was sold by Bucherer, a famous Swiss Rolex retailer, in 1990.

 

This is indeed an excellent choice for a daily beater.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request.