Rolex Datejust 16233

Vintage 1997 Rolex Datejust 36 16233 Two-Tone Auto MOP Roman Dial 36mm

Bezel Color : Gold Movement : Mechanical (Automatic) Dial Pattern : Mother of Pearl Indices : Roman Numerals Year Manufactured : 1990-1999 Reference Number : 16233 Band/Strap : Rolex Jubilee Brand : Rolex Case Color : Silver Type : Wristwatch Department : Unisex Adults Caseback : Solid Band Material : Stainless Steel Bezel Type : Fluted Model : Rolex Datejust Watch Shape : Round Style : Luxury Case Size : 36 mm Features : 12-Hour Dial, Date Indicator, Fixed Bezel, Seconds Hand, Self-Winding, Swiss Made, Swiss Movement Case Material : Stainless Steel Country of Origin : Switzerland Display : Analog A High Level Of Factory Rarity Factory Mother of Pearl dials are far less common than the standard sunburst or lacquer finishes usually found on a 16233. This is not a simple paint application. It requires a fragile, wafer-thin slice of natural shell to be expertly bonded to the dial plate. Because it is an organic material, no two dials react to the light in the same way. The Roman numeral configuration makes this specific variant even more distinct, offering a level of texture and depth that a standard dial simply cannot match. Sophisticated Intentional Design Choosing a Mother of Pearl dial moves the watch away from the utilitarian look of a standard Datejust and into a more elevated space. While the 16233 remains the quintessential two tone Rolex, the inclusion of organic materials on the dial indicates a higher level of craftsmanship from the period. It represents a specific era in the late nineties where Rolex began experimenting more heavily with exotic materials, creating pieces that feel more like jewelry than just tools. Sharp Case Lines And Mechanical Health This example is in very good shape with a sharp case and defined lines. The Mother of Pearl dial is perfect and the sapphire crystal is clear. The matching two tone Jubilee bracelet is notably tight with almost no stretch, exhibiting a very well cared for watch. Mechanically, the watch is running strong after passing our test bench. The Most Interesting Version Of A Classic This is for the collector who wants the silhouette of a classic Datejust but finds the standard configurations too common. The Mother of Pearl dial adds a layer of exclusivity without being loud. It works because it takes the most recognizable watch in the world and gives it a unique, organic fingerprint. It is a clean, honest example of a factory variation that is increasingly difficult to find in this condition. Key Specs: Reference: 16233 Model: Datejust 36 Year: 1997 (U-Serial) Movement: Automatic (Quickset) Case Size: 36mm Bezel: 18K YG Fluted Bracelet: Two-Tone Jubilee Dial: Mother of Pearl (MOP) Roman Numeral Wrist Size: 6.1–6.85in Metal: Two-Tone (SS/YG) SKU: 509 This item's authenticity will be verified by experts before delivery