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1985 Rolex Lady Datejust 69178 - 18K Yellow Gold Onyx Stone Dial

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Details
From The Height Of The Stone Dial Era
Rolex has always used its precious metal models as a platform for its most ambitious designs. This Lady-Datejust from 1985 is a prime example of that philosophy. The brand reserved its stone dials for top-tier configurations, transforming a classic watch into an object of pure luxury. An onyx dial wasn't merely a color choice; it was a difficult and expensive material to work with, offering a depth of black that no lacquer could replicate. Set in a solid gold case with the flagship President bracelet, this watch was the answer to how a timepiece could also function as serious jewelry without compromising its horological integrity.
A President Bracelet And Original Papers
This is a top configuration of the reference 69178. It combines a solid 18K yellow gold case and fluted bezel with a matching 18K yellow gold President bracelet, the most prestigious option Rolex offered. The centerpiece is the factory black onyx dial, a feature that immediately elevates the watch. Crucially, this example is accompanied by its original warranty papers, dated August 17th, 1985, which confirms its provenance and configuration directly from the point of sale.
Natural Patina On An Original Dial
The onyx dial shows some light oxidation near the center, a natural occurrence as these stone dials age over decades. A similar patina is visible on the case near the five o'clock lug. The piece presents in Very Good Vintage Condition, defined by a sharp fluted bezel and a full President bracelet with its correct hidden clasp. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
Solid Gold And Stone From 1985
The combination of solid 18K gold and pure black onyx is a fundamental statement of luxury that doesn't follow trends. Rolex has moved away from this specific style of dial production, making original examples from the 1980s increasingly sought-after. This configuration, President bracelet, fluted bezel, onyx dial, and original papers, represents a specific and highly desirable moment in the brand's history. It's a foundational piece that holds its ground in any collection, with no modern equivalent to substitute.
Key Specs
Reference: 69178
Model: Lady-Datejust
Year: 1985
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 26mm (Excluding Crown)
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Fluted
Bracelet: 18K Yellow Gold President
Bracelet Length: Fits up to a 6-inch wrist
Dial: Black Onyx Stone
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Weight: 71.5g
Includes: Original Warranty Papers
SKU: 1841
Fit & Customization
We want your watch to fit the day it arrives, so its next chapter starts the moment you put it on, and that's why we offer:
  • Any two-piece strap swapped out and customized in the material, color, and length you want
  • Links added or removed on a metal bracelet
  • Integrated bracelets resized, which few dealers will take on
Contact us about the listing or your order and we'll take it from there.