Two-Tone 18K Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel Rolex Datejust Ref. 16233 with Diamond Dial
Luxury Wristwatch, Oyster Perpetual Datejust · Yellow Gold (High-purity 18K alloy for rich color and lasting luster), integrated with Stainless Steel (Two-tone/Bimetal).
Purity: 18K Gold components (75.0% pure gold). The fluted bezel and crown are solid 18K yellow gold, while the bracelet center links are 18K gold. Base case is 904L Stainless Steel.
Type
Luxury Wristwatch, Oyster Perpetual Datejust
Purity
18K Gold components (75.0% pure gold). The fluted bezel and crown are solid 18K yellow gold, while the bracelet center links are 18K gold. Base case is 904L Stainless Steel.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High-purity 18K alloy for rich color and lasting luster), integrated with Stainless Steel (Two-tone/Bimetal).
Weight
Total watch weight approximately 100-110 grams. Estimated gold content: 15-20 grams spread across the bezel, crown, and center bracelet links.
Description
An iconic example of the Rolex Datejust, featuring a 36mm steel case contrasted by a sharp 18K yellow gold fluted bezel. The silver sunray dial is elevated by factory-set diamond indices, creating a timeless aesthetic that balances utility with high luxury. Protected by a sapphire crystal with the signature Cyclops date magnifier.
Key Features
Fluted 18K bezel, factory diamond dial, Cyclops date lens, Calibre 3135 movement (likely), and the prestige of the Two-Tone (Rolesor) design.
Color & Finish
High-polished yellow gold bezel; sunray-finish silver dial with vertical brushing; brushed stainless steel lugs and outer links; polished gold center links.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Rolex Coronet on dial and crown. Model reference 16233 and serial number engraved between lugs. Clasp with Rolex coronet and '750' or '18K' stamp on gold components.
Dimensions Estimate
36mm case diameter (standard men's/unisex size), approx 12mm thickness, 20mm lug width, 7.5-inch standard bracelet length. Ring size not applicable.
Gemstones & Inlays
10 Single-cut or Round Brilliant diamonds as hour markers; SI-VVS clarity, G-H color; set in small square-shaped 18K yellow gold chatons/settings.
Clasp & Closure
Rolex Fliplock or concealed folding Crownclasp (Jubilee/Oyster style). High-security friction lock with embossed Rolex logo.
Chain & Links
Oyster or Jubilee-style 3-piece or 5-piece link construction. Soldered gold center links for strength. Screw-pin adjustable links.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-milled bezel; hand-applied diamond indices; machine-finished bridge and plates; iconic high-grade oyster case construction ensuring waterproofness.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the Rolex crown on the dial, crispness of the 'Superlative Chronometer' text, bezel tooth sharpness, and date font magnification (2.5x). RED FLAG: In this specific photo, the magnification/cyclops alignment or magnification level should be verified as it appears slightly off-center in low-res view.
Origin & Maker
Swiss Made; Rolex SA, Geneva, Switzerland. Renowned for high-precision movements and in-house gold foundries.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century / Neo-Vintage Era (specifically 1988–2004 production based on the reference number features).
Age Estimate
Produced between 1988 and 1995 (noting the 'T Swiss Made T' or 'Swiss Made' transition and pierced/non-pierced lug style).
Cultural Significance
The Datejust is globally recognized as the ultimate status symbol of the professional class and has been worn by countless world leaders and celebrities.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Noted surface scratches on the bezel and lugs. Magnification shows slight dirt/tarnish near the lugs. Lume plots (if present) show age. Dial appears clean.
Value Estimate
Market value: $5,500 - $7,500 USD. Melt value is negligible compared to the horological and brand value. Value depends heavily on bracelet 'stretch' and movement health.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with mild soap and soft brush to remove dirt from the gold links; Professional pressure testing every 2 years; Movement service every 10 years; Do not use abrasive cloths on the gold.
Similar Items
Rolex Day-Date (Full gold), Tudor Prince Oysterdate (more affordable alternative), Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra (Two-tone variant).
Interesting Facts
The Datejust was the first self-winding chronometer wristwatch to display the date in a window on the dial. The 'Rolesor' name for two-tone was patented by Rolex in 1933.