Rolex Datejust 16233 Vignette 1995

There is something that makes collecting Rolex watches special. There are a lot of different details that distinguish one piece from another. Special case materials, case shapes and dials. These are the most prominent and noticeable features.

I think you can notice that this Rolex is one of them. The sharp case and bezel are in beautiful condition together with the Jubilee strap, which is very tight for its age. The watch comes with its original papers and hangtag. The movement is checked by our watchmaker.

Stella and Vignette dial

The well-known Stella dial produced in a range of bold colours, from bright yellow to rich purple. The name came from a company called Stella, based in Chatelaine and Geneva. After the dials from Stern (one of the largest dial manufacturers of the world) arrived at the factory, Stella provided these dials with a special lacquer/coating through a difficult and long process.

Another similar type of dial as in this Datejust is called Vignette. Many collectors would not call this dial Stella, but it is good to remember that the method of production requires the same technique. The only difference is that the dial is on a rotating platform when the lacquer is applied. More lacquer is very gently applied to the outer edge, making it darker. This leaves a special gradient that goes from the original vibrant color in the center to an almost black color at the outer edge.

Datejust

In the year 1945 the first Datejust was introduced in honour of the 40-year existence of Rolex, under the reference 4467. This was the first self-winding watch with a watertight case that also indicated the date. It even automatically transitioned the date after midnight. The Datejust was equipped with a serrated bezel and the famous Jubilee bracelet, especially designed for the Datejust. The date was placed on the 3-hour mark. Ten years later, in 1955, the date-window was given a "cyclops lens", which magnifies the date up to two and a half times.

Rolex's most iconic models were produced to function as "tool watches". The Datejust, however, did not have a specific purpose. This model was supposed to be a classic, reliable, everyday watch, suitable for any occasion in day-to-day life.