Adding to its appeal, this extraordinary wristwatch remains in razor-sharp, unpolished condition, preserving its storied authenticity. The original bezel is perfectly crisp and sharp, a feature seldom found in timepieces of this caliber and age. The movement has been recently serviced by our expert watchmaker, this Turn-O-Graph is ready to grace your wrist with both precision and panache.

Designed as the first Rolex tool watch with a rotating bezel, the Thunderbird is a symbol of timeless elegance and versatility. Whether worn as a daily companion or showcased as the highlight of a collection, reference 16253 is an ode to Rolex’s innovation and artistry. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this distinctive piece of horological history, where rarity and refinement unite.

The serial begins with Rxxxxxx dating this watch to 1987.

THE DETAILS

• Case: 36 mm stainless steel case in attractive condition which remains unpolished and razor sharp
• Bezel: Original solid gold bezel which is in stunning razor sharp condition and remains unpolished. Very few bezels survive this nice, a true time capsule!
• Dial/Hands: Original Rolex factory all original blue vignette diamond set dial. The dial is in stunning and all original condition. Hands are gold and are in stunning condition.
• Caseback: Attractive stainless steel case
• Bracelet/Strap: Factory original Rolex Jubilee Stainless Steel + 18k Solid gold middle links which is in stunning unpolished condition. The bracelet and little to no stretch. The buckle shows a few light marks, remains unpolished and has a bold Rolex symbol. The buckle is marked L12 dating the bracelet correctly to December 1987. The watch will fit an 7.9 inch wrist  
• Movement: Rolex Automatic winding movement which has been serviced by our watchmaker and is currently running +1 seconds per day. 
• Crystal: Acrylic in attractive condition with a few light marks as expected from a vintage watch
• Accessories: This watch comes watch only. It does not come come with the original box or warranty papers.