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1988 Rolex Datejust 16013 - Two Tone Champagne Diamond Dial

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Details
The Two-Tone Diamond Dial
The decision to render the Datejust in two-tone steel and gold was about creating a watch that could exist in two worlds at once. It has the everyday durability of steel, but the elevated presence of solid gold. Adding a factory diamond dial was a further commitment to this idea, pushing the watch firmly into the luxury space without sacrificing its foundational practicality. This combination became a signature for Rolex in the 1980s, defining an era and creating a configuration that was formal, yet versatile enough to be worn daily.
The Quickset Generation
The 16013 marked a quiet but meaningful upgrade to the Datejust. Introduced in the late 1970s, it brought the quickset date of the caliber 3035 and a sapphire crystal to the two-tone model, making it far easier to live with day to day. Paired here with a fluted 18K yellow gold bezel, a champagne dial set with factory diamonds, and a matching two-tone Jubilee bracelet, this example captures the 16013 in its classic dress form.
Factory Sticker Still Present
The original caseback sticker remains intact, a rare survival for a watch from 1988. The champagne dial with its factory-set diamonds is clean, and the fluted gold bezel is sharp. The original Jubilee bracelet shows only very light sag, maintaining a strong and contrasting finish between the steel and gold links. This example is in Very Good Vintage Condition. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
An Elevated Daily Wearer
The two-tone Datejust with a diamond dial answers the need for a single watch that can move between contexts without requiring a second thought. The steel and gold construction and factory diamonds add refinement for formal settings, while the Oyster case and automatic movement handle the demands of daily wear. It's a choice that communicates an appreciation for the classic form of the Datejust, but in an execution that stands apart from the standard all-steel option.
Key Specs
Reference: 16013
Model: Datejust
Year: 1988
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm (Excluding Crown)
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Fluted
Bracelet: Stainless Steel and 18K Yellow Gold Jubilee
Bracelet Length: 6.25-7in
Dial: Champagne, Diamond Indices
Metal: Stainless Steel & Yellow Gold
SKU: 525
Fit & Customization
This watch should feel like it was made for your wrist from the moment you put it on. That's why we offer:
  • Strap Customization: Any two-piece strap swapped and custom-fitted in your choice of material, color, and length
  • Standard Bracelet Sizing: Precise link additions or removals to achieve your exact fit
  • Integrated Bracelet Sizing: A bespoke service few boutiques are equipped to handle
  • Custom Caseback Engraving: Personalize your watch with initials, dates, or custom text engraved on the caseback
Contact us about this item or your order, and we'll take it from there.