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1985 Rolex Datejust 16018 - 18K Yellow Gold Birch Wood Dial

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Details
The Warmth Of An Organic Dial
The reference 16018 represents the classic 36mm Datejust in its most luxurious form, solid 18K yellow gold. While many were fitted with traditional champagne or silver dials, this example features a factory Birch wood dial, an uncommon and highly desirable configuration. Rolex experimented with organic materials for a brief period, and these wood dials bring an entirely different character to the watch. Each piece of wood has a unique grain, ensuring no two are exactly alike. It transforms the quintessential dress watch into something warmer and more personal.
A Classic Reference From A Great Era
This 1985 example hails from a strong period for Rolex manufacturing, combining vintage aesthetics with the modern reliability of the caliber 3035 movement and its convenient quickset date function. The solid gold case provides a substantial feel on the wrist, a constant reminder of the watch's quality. Paired with a custom leather strap, the focus remains squarely on the distinct dial and the iconic fluted bezel, creating a look that is both sophisticated and grounded.
A Well Preserved Example
This watch is in very good condition. The 18K yellow gold case is in great shape, as is the crystal. The Birch wood dial is well preserved, and the date function operates correctly. The watch has been fitted with a new custom DVW leather strap that complements the warm tones of the dial and gold case. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
Beyond The Standard Datejust
This is the right watch for someone who appreciates the history and proportions of the classic Datejust but wants an execution that stands apart. The wood dial moves it beyond the boardroom standard into a more nuanced category of vintage collecting. It is a confident choice that is elegant without being loud, showcasing a rare piece of Rolex history that remains perfectly suited for daily wear.
Key Specs
Reference: 16018
Model: Datejust 36
Year: 1985
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Fluted
Strap: Custom Leather
Bracelet Length: Fits up to 7in
Dial: Birch Wood
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
SKU: 1353

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Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

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