Why I Bought a Vintage Rolex Datejust (Ref 16030)
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- čas přidán 5. 09. 2024
- This watch is a Rolex Datejust, reference 16030. It was most likely produced in 1984 or 1985, which makes it almost exactly as old as I am. It’s a 36mm steel Oyster case on its original jubilee bracelet.
This Datejust features the iconic “Cyclops” date magnification bubble, which is designed to make the date appear larger (and therefore more legible). It also features a quickset date, a convenient feature that Rolex invented in 1977 that lets you set the date quickly, rather than turning the hour hand to manually advance the date.
The Datejust was introduced in 1945 and is still one or Rolex’s most popular models. It’s got a lot of history and has been worn by the likes of Winston Churchill and Dr. Martin Luther King.
For most people, the most remarkable thing about this watch - what makes it special - is the fact that it’s a Rolex. Partly due to innovation and craftsmanship, and partly due to really great marketing, the Rolex brand is synonymous with luxury.
While there are many watch brands that are much more expensive than Rolex, none have the same cachet or brand awareness. Most Rolex watches are purchased and worn as status symbols, and guess what: that’s totally fine. I’d be lying if I said that I bought this watch only for the craftsmanship, and not at all for the brand.
Rolex is the most recognizable watch brand, and it’s one of the most well-known luxury brands, in general. These days, buying or receiving a Rolex is often a celebration of some milestone (typically related to business or money).
I remember seeing my friend Barron’s Datejust and absolutely loving the size of it. He told me that he got a great price on the secondhand market, and the seed was officially planted.
I decided that I would reward myself with a Rolex if I hit a certain financial milestone. Then I hit it, and a couple other things happened in my personal life that warranted a celebration.
When I met Christian from Theo & Harris, and it was over. He said he’d keep an eye out for a Datejust that met my preferences - quick set, original bracelet, non-white dial.
Theo & Harris: theoandharris....
He texted me two days before I left for my wedding with pictures of this watch. Freshly serviced with a unique (and rare) dial, he offered it up at a price I couldn’t refuse. He even overnighted it to me so I could wear it while I got married. And I’ve been wearing it almost every day since.
To me, this watch represents a few things. It will always remind me of the end of 2017 and the beginning of 2018, a time when business was better than ever, I married an amazing woman (my greatest accomplishment to date), and I got to be best man in my older brother’s wedding. It was an exciting, whirlwind 3-4 months, and this watch is a celebration and memento of that time.
#rolex #datejust #16030
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GREAT looking watch! Congrats Brock!
Thanks, Antonio!
How you know you've chosen well.
Was such a pleasure to help you, brother!!!!
Thanks again dude 👊🏼
It's a beautiful and unique watch and I love that dial; congratulations! To say I'm not a little jealous would be untrue. That vintage charm, history, and craftsmanship is what attracts me to vintage pieces. I'm sure it's a similar story for you guys. Have a good one!
This is a Theo watch!!!
Christian's the man!
Mad respect that he bought from Christian and Theo & Harris
Great and unique looking DJ, Brock. You can’t do much better when it comes to value in vintage watches. It looks great on you btw.
Thanks man! Agreed, it’s an amazing way to get into the vintage luxury world.
DJ goes always
"...and by the way, I'm walking through first-class to get my seat in coach."
Truly modest. Congrats, Brock!
I own a 1978 Rolex OPDJ, best watch I’ve ever bought. There’s something about this vintage watches that you don’t see and feel anymore.
6:21-6:25 That's the most genuine smile- it just glows through the screen. Congratulations Brock!
Thank you, sir!
The Kavalier It definitely was. Really happy for Brock. Dudes living his best life!
Don't forget he was recently engaged and married!
I went in the Rolex dealer in Athens in 1980 to by the Pepsi. My wife was with me and said that is quite ugly, lol. I bought this very Datejust instead, yes I lost on the resale value end but I have love this watch from Day one. Btw at a certain angle in the water the face becomes a perfect mirror, I have worn it at the beach for the first twenty plus years without any problems. My wife is Hawaiian and we have spent many happy hours in the Pacific ocean, all I do is rinse it off. Now I don't wear it everyday, I keep it in rotation, but it has served me very well, its beautiful, its functional, and it gives great satisfaction.
I love watches. I think it says so much about a gentleman. Classy watch. Classic items don’t usually impress the common man or woman. But the quality shows. Congrats on finding a great watch for one arm and a great bride for the other. I’m sure she is a lovely and remarkable individual. Many happy years.
That feeling that you describe with your first Rolex, in my opinion is everlasting. Every time you wear it, I'm sure you're thrilled. I was like that with my first Rolex also. Congratulations on such a superb watch and for achieving those milestone's. Christian from Theo & Harris is definitely Top-notch!
It's possibly the best looking watch I have ever seen IMHO.
Amazing! Congrats dude
Thank you man! Taking a page out of your playbook this year 👊🏼
Yes ..... But wouldn't he be better off with a MVMT????
Absolutely an excellent choice. The watch I get the most complements on is a rose gold plated seiko 5 diver, but my rolexes, tudor or swiss watches never turn a head other then a watch nerd. Thankfully, we buy them for us, it turns my head and gets a smile many times a day.
Awesome. I have the exact watch. Same engine turned bezel and all. I got it as a birthday gift from my father in 1989. I beat the crap out of it. I’m a firefighter in a tough town and have been in countless fires, training ect with it. I go shooting, camping, yard work ect. No need to baby it. I’ve serviced it like 3 times and it always comes back looking brand new. I could only imagine the beating a solid link submariner would be able to take so I bought one. Now I daily wear the sun and keep the date just for when ever is see my father or feel a little more dressy.
that is such a nice approach about other people noticing your watch. Makes total sense!! most people won't even look at our wrist, and feeling ''special'' because we have a Rolex, in the end, is about how we see ourselves, and not how we think other people see us. That is so true!!!!!! great
Nice simple honest guy. I wish him success in everything he does in life.
I just bought my first (vintage) Rolex Datejust today and I couldn’t be happier! Thanks for the vid
Very nice, indeed! Purchased my 1987 Datejust last year to celebrate a milestone, as well. Gray tapestry dial. Absolutely love it! Don't worry about people reacting to it. You purchased it for your enjoyment. Enjoy!
Congratulations! Its really an amazing watch. I recently bought a datejust from 1980 for my 40th birthday and I am so happy.
Congrats to you too! Wear it well!
This is awesome. My brand new wife got me a 1988 date just and gave it to me when we were alone after our wedding and this guy is right - no one looks or cares unless they're into watches but it should mean everything to the wearer.
I bought a 83 datejust in January. I had a great year and milestone in my life and I wanted to reward myself. I promise you... no one has said anything to me yet that i have a great time piece..you were right about that lol... just remember we got this watch 4 us to use and not the world to see.!!!
I had to click on the video the moment i saw it on my feed! I’ve been considering getting a Datejust myself, and your video on it re affirms my belief that I should pull the trigger soon !
The first thing i thought of when i saw your vintage Rolex was Christian from Theo and Harris, and lo and behold - You’re Giving him credit for your purchase!
It’s a fantastic, timeless piece and i urge you to go deeper into the rabbit hole of watches. It’s an amazing hobby.
Also, congratulations on your wedding, hope you have a long, loving and prosperous life with your significant other .
All the best !
Congrats man. After owning a bunch of Rolexes, the date just still has a special spot in my collection. Easily one of the most versatile but under rated watch that only pairs well with...EVERYTHING! ... wear it in good health buddy.
Mother of pearl, I must be old if 1984/85 is vintage. This is a nice watch. It has a bit of flash without diamonds or gold. Years back, I tried to buy a Rolex after some Friday night drinking after work, but it exceeded my credit card limit... it was probably for the better. My work pal wanted to pay the difference but I declined his offer. If I recall, it was $1200 and my limit was $800. This was the late 1980s. Sadly, I still don't have one, but my Casio is treating me right.
Great choice! The datejust never goes out of style.
What an amazing story. I feel like the DJ is really THE ONE watch. At one point I will get one too. I'm still a student but at some point in my life the moment will be right. Amazing story and (late) congrats on the wedding!
I do the same thing walking through first class lol. I've seen some nice Hublots and APs. One guy saw me looking at his AP and adjusted his arm so I could get a better look.
Congrats on tying the knot. The datejust is a beautiful watch, wear it with pride. I'm saving up for my own Rolex one day but at the moment I got my eye on an Omega Speedmaster.
Perfect wedding watch, loved the video!
Thanks man!
Congrats man. I'm a young dude about to be 20, my first watch was the Skx 007 that I modded and I absolutely love it. I'm really looking at the Hamilton Khaki King for my second watch. I eventually would like a Vintage late 80's early 90's Blue dial Datejust. Such an amazing everyday timepiece. There's something about the fluted bezel that is mesmeric to me. Happy for you sir, hope you continue to enjoy you awesome watch
*your
You have excellent taste, especially at 19 years old!
Oh wow! Never thought I'd be a fan of the Jubilee bracelet but I've fallen in love with it on that piece! Congrats on the purchase!
can't go wrong with vintage. Great choice!
Enjoy your Rolex in good health Brock! Unlike smartphones that may change with technology, having a quality enduring timepiece will serve you as a personal reminder of your own age, your past milestones and the celebratory times in which you acquired it, as well as your current commitments and your life right this second.
Thanks for that review man...You have inspired me now to go after my own Rolex, DateJust or an Explorer I. You really are a modest man and humble. I really appreciate it.
I love the colour of that dial. The darker grey. It's stunning.
When I turned 41 I finally paid off my mortgage. I’d been eyeing up a 34mm OP for ages but couldn’t justify it because I always thought that I could have used that money towards my mortgage. However, once I’d payed it off, there was no reason not to buy the watch. I went into Rolex and bought it. I adore it and rarely take it off. I’ve got other luxury watches like an Omega and a Zenith but the Rolex means more to me than any of them. There’s something about small classic Rolexes than really make me happy.
I LOVE the 34mm OP. Great purchase, congrats!
Congrats Brock!! I have one exactly like yours, form around 1979. It was my Godfather's watch and it was passed down to me a couple of decades ago. It is a very understated and fenomenal watch. There are few DJ with a light coloured dial and white lettering. Enjoy!!!
Nice video mate and beautiful watch. So true about "No one really cares which watch you are wearing EXCEPT a Watch enthusiast" But wearing a nice watch puts a great smile on our faces and WE know the importance behind it and the great feeling of owning one of these beautiful time peices!!! :)
Congratulations on the marriage and a great choice on the watch. Well done, sir.
Evergreen Rolex Date-just..love it
Some people will definitely notice, but almost nobody will come up to you and start asking about your watch, unless the person is a really chatty watch guy. No one will suddenly treat you better because you have an expensive/memorable watch, but people will respond to the way you carry yourself when you are wearing one.
Congratulations on your wedding and your Rolex:)
Great watch and great video. Mine is from 1986 the year I graduated college. However, mine was given to me by my father and is his quarter century club watch from IBM which is inscribed on the back. (Remember when companies gave a Rolex for 25 years of service?) Mine is on an Oyster bracelet though and doesn't have that cool face color but still love it. Wearing it as I type this...
Congratulations marry man! What a better way to celebrate that important date than with a signature watch!
Thanks!
The dial colour is exceptional.
You've made an awesome choice! I got the 16013 tapestry dial (same as worn by Christian Bale in American Psycho) and it's marvelous!
So glad to see you working with Theo and Harris and stepping up your game from cheap/ affordable watches into some real quality
Wonderful reasons to get A Rolex. Well done
No Vincentro crap? Atta boy! Congrats
Beautiful datejust . I love the rolex datejust
Such a perfect watch.. the size, color way the thickness. Just wow!😍
-Congratulations ✔️😁🍻
Nice dial. looks great! I love the vintage "stuff!"
Steel vintage Rolex. You don’t no more like that. Well. Theoretically at least😂😂
Thanks for your open and interesting story behind and to this watch. To me it every time is interesting to learn about that and why someone decided to get that particular timepiece.
Wear it in good health, it’s a great addition to your collection 👍🏻🙏🏻
Beautiful choice! I started with a Seiko 5. Just acquired my first Rolex, a DJ door stop 1601. Feels amazing to have it on the wrist.
16030 Twinsies! Great video! You bought it for a great reason-to commemorate a special time in your life. I did the same! Congrats again and best wishes to the Mrs. ;)
This was your fault haha (in the best possible way) 🍻
Watch triplets. I also have the same reference. Any suggestions for strap colors that go well with it. Is it faux paux to want to change the dial?
I love my Datejust, bought in Zürich on May 31, 1979
Big congrats on your marriage, that's huge! The Datejust looks really nice too. :)
The ‘not so’ Modest Man hehe. Congratulations. Lovely watch.
Congrats on the marriage and the watch!!! It looks gorgeous.
Thanks for all the wrist shots.
Phenomenal one watch collection, works in every occasion!
Congratulations Brock👍
Looking good in that green shirt Brock! You're the most down to earth guy ever and its funny to hear you reminisce about times you thought Rolex was for snobs :D You totally deserve it and it looks great on you!
Thank you, sir! Much appreciated 🙏
Great choice, love the color seems very versatile and awesome that it now is a reminder of all these great moments in your life
Congrats!
Congrats brother on all your success, and marriage. May you guys have the same happiness I found with my wife of 20+yrs.
Nice video editing. And I usually don't care for Rolex watches but the minimalism of yours is quite convincing. Congratulations on getting married and I hope 2018 is just as fruitful for you. Cheers!
Thank you!!
It's a tradition in my family that the firstborn son gets dad's best watch. My wish to you: a son that will one day, many decades from today, will inherit this watch.
Great Vid! My story is similar to yours except I dove into high end when my kids grew up. That Datejust you have is gorgeous
Congratulations that is my dream watch Rolex are just amazing I love them!
Thank you for making this beautiful video. A high end watch to commemorate milestones and life events is much better than a tattoo for example. Congrats!
16014 - 16030 about 84-87 with the ivory face is my favourite. Nice watch mate 👍
Love the Datejust. Looks great on you. Recently saved up and bought myself a 1601!
Congrats!
Been there... This is what going to happen next, you will want a sport Rolex, then you'll want a gold Rolex, then you'll want an all Rolex collection.
I was torn between this one and a 36mm Explorer 1, but I reallly like having the date window, and I don't want to go larger than 36 mm...
stockegsix is spot on lol! I started with a Datejust 2 and bought a gold Daydate 40 5 years later and now 15k for a two-tone sub seems like a drop in the bucket after spending 40K+ on the gold Daydate!
Totally never get rid of this watch though and hold on to it as a gift for your son on his wedding day! What makes watches special are the memories behind them.
My Datejust 2 was a 5-year milestone for my business and my Daydate 40 was for 10 years... Next big spend will be on a Patek in 9 years for my 20th!
The Modest Man I have both, and he is right. No other watch matters anymore.
Sick! I actually am so excited because my first Rolex is in the mail to me right now. And I am already in love and it's not even here yet! I already know that I want more Rolexs after this!!!
Awesome story. Congratulations. With all the crazy Rolex new watches those 36mm 5 digits are the way to go. I’m currently searching for one.
An iconic watch.
Congratulations bro!Really nice watch! Love the champagne colour! You should do an EDC update!
Thanks! Will do that soon.
Great watch man! Nice treat for yourself (nice shirt too).
Congrats on tying that knot bro! 👍😃
Thank man!
Beautiful! Just picked up a vintage Datejust my self iconic
Great story - and great reason to treat yourself to a watch. Congrats on the stellar 2017, despite my being a little late to the game!
Hey Bro congratulations on your marriage Bro... I wish you and wife all the best and many happy years together 🙂
Congrats on that purchase, i´m in love with that original bracelet
Congratulations, I own the same watch also from 1984, love it.
Very nice!
I have a 1987 1603 I wear almost every day. It's bulletproof! I wear it for everything.
Good choice! My Fortune 500 CEO father-in-law wore one watch as long as I knew him (21 years): a steel 1501 Date. Had it on when he died. He owned a Sub 1680 and a Patek but I only ever saw him wear the 1501. I have it and the Sub now, and love them both, but I'm most likely to grab the 1501 if I go to any event that is more than casual. For casual I wear a SKX013. And I have also found, over the five years I've had them, that no one cares, other than watch followers, which are few and far between. Of course I care.
Very cool, thanks for sharing!
I have never come across someone as likeable as you . Instant subscribe! I am looking forward to watching you on a regular basis. Nice Rolex :)
Big congratulations to you Brock. Great video - thoroughly enjoyed.
Nice review and good backstory on the wedding watch, etc. I have the same 16030 myself. Classic.
Great video. Great watch.
Your authenticity is unique.
Well deserved.
Great journey through the hobby, awesome watch and incredible story getting it just in time for your wedding. Congrats on the watch and the wedding Brock!
Congratulations for the watch and glad that christian sourced you for it. Ive also hit a milestone but didn't pull the trigger so one day hopefully i will get 1601
Love the watch and the story! Enjoy man!
Thank you!
Just discovered your channel today. Really nice video quality, and good content. Congrats on your marriage; having someone to share life with is the best.
Perfect beginners Rolex, comfortable and stylish. I have a datejust and two seikos :)
Wow! I have the exact same Datejust, gray dial and all. Only difference, I have the Oyster bracelet. Bought it new in Switzerland in 1986. Paid about $800 US for it. And I seem to remember the Swiss government giving some rebate on the sales tax. Not sure about that though. That Rolex is probably the only thing I’ve owned that’s appreciated in value since I bought it.
How I can find that dial?😀
Really good watch shots, beautiful watch you have there
Great story and excellent watch to be married in and start a new life.
Kudos to you.
Love this video! Set a goal for myself as well and bought a Rolex DJ 16234 SS 18k WG fluted bezel blue dial w diamond dial markers. Wherever I go people notice it, compliment me on it, and really boosts your self confidence and reminds yourself to keep going and to never quit on your goals. Great investment
well done!! great watch...also will look LITT on a distressed blue leather band
lovely those ghost dials! also known as polar dials! stunning piece, enjoy her!
Wow great video bud! I especially like the part about no one noticing the watch even though it's a Rolex. I've never owned a Rolex but I think one of the greatest things about Rolex themselves is that it's a watch forever and multifunctional can go with everything. And it's a future heirloom to pass down to your next generation. But it is funny how nobody notices the up to $10,000 timepiece on your wrist!
Thanks! Yeah it is funny. Also funny how people don’t think about the price range among Rolex watches. Just because it’s a Rolex doesn’t mean it was $25k (although it definitely could be). Lots of great deals on the vintage market!
Ah! That would be a great video! FYI lol
Just bought one of these, Nice video.
I have 2 datejust, one stainless and sure gold bezel, one black face 18k and stainless with a spectacular diamond bezel. Let me give you a clue, PEOPLE NOTICE. THEY DON'T SAY ANYTHING, BUT THEY UNDERSTAND YOU MEAN CLASS. I have diamond rings, thick gold bracelets, and a huge flawless Ruby ring and I never wear them. Rolex is simply a statement of success. Good story. PS..... I BOUGHT MY FIRST ONE AT 24 YEARS OLD. THAT year I got out of the Marines, got married also and made 100 k for the first time in my life. By the way, I was going to college full time while busting my but and making 100 k. Congrats. Neal
That is one good looking time piece!
Mate.. This watch suits you so much. Not a datejust fan but looks great on you
Thank you sir!