Rolex Datejust 36 Jubilee Diamond Dial Gold Steel from 1991 Ref. 16233

Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 16233 – A Timeless Fusion of Iconic Detail and Subtle Luxury

Few watches balance heritage, innovation, and sheer visual impact like the Rolex Datejust Ref. 16233. Introduced during the height of Rolex’s 1980s design confidence, this 1991 example—bearing an X-series serial—exemplifies the Datejust’s enduring appeal. With its harmonious blend of stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, a distinctive fluted bezel, and a rare Jubilee diamond dial, this piece captures the essence of what makes Rolex the definitive name in luxury watchmaking.

Two-Tone Elegance – Steel & 18k Gold with Iconic Proportions

Encased in Rolex’s Oyster steel construction, the 36mm case is crowned by an 18k yellow gold fluted bezel—boldly reflective and deeply grooved, it remains one of Rolex’s most recognizable design signatures. The case presents strong lines and crisp transitions, showing the durability and refinement expected from a model built for both everyday wear and enduring prestige.

Fitted to the watch is the original Jubilee bracelet, a five-piece link construction in alternating brushed steel and polished gold. Introduced in 1945 alongside the first Datejust, the Jubilee bracelet has since become a Rolex hallmark for comfort and elegance. The bracelet flows seamlessly into the case, offering both suppleness and visual sophistication.

Jubilee Dial with Factory Diamonds – Monogrammed Brilliance

This particular Datejust features the celebrated Jubilee dial, a creation that debuted in the mid-1980s to commemorate Rolex’s 80th anniversary and the Datejust’s 40th. Its defining characteristic is a full-surface repetitive “ROLEX” monogram—a deeply textured visual motif that plays with light across every angle of the dial.

Ten brilliant-cut factory-set diamonds serve as hour markers, applied in elegant gold settings that float above the patterned surface. The contrast between the monochrome relief and the sparkle of the stones evokes both opulence and precision, perfectly aligning with Rolex’s DNA.

The gold baton hands and applied Rolex coronet complete the dial’s composition, all shielded beneath a sapphire crystal with Cyclops magnifier—Rolex’s proprietary lens for date readability.

Calibre 3135 – Precision at the Core

Powering the Ref. 16233 is the Rolex Calibre 3135, one of the brand’s most acclaimed automatic movements. Introduced in the late 1980s, the 3135 is a COSC-certified chronometer, revered for its durability, accuracy, and ease of service. It features a bi-directional winding system, hacking seconds, and a quickset date—functionality that’s modern, even decades later.

This movement set a new benchmark for automatic calibers when it was released, and remains one of Rolex’s longest-serving mechanical architectures.

Key Details:

• Model: Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 16233

• Serial: X-Series (1991)

• Movement: Rolex Calibre 3135, Automatic, COSC-Certified

• Case: 36mm Stainless Steel Oyster Case with 18k Yellow Gold Fluted Bezel

• Crystal: Sapphire with Cyclops Date Magnifier

• Dial: Jubilee Monogram Dial with 10 Factory-Set Diamonds

• Bracelet: Jubilee Bracelet in Steel and 18k Yellow Gold

• Features: Quickset Date, Screw-Down Crown, 100m Water Resistance

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition; serviced and functioning precisely

Why This Watch?

This 1991 Rolex Datejust Ref. 16233 is a snapshot of a pivotal Rolex era—when bold design met the brand’s mechanical maturity. The Jubilee dial with factory diamonds is a luxurious twist on tradition, elevating the Datejust beyond its classic roots into something truly distinctive.

For those who seek a Datejust that blends everyday elegance with collectible allure, this reference offers the best of both worlds. It’s not just a Rolex—it’s a celebration of Rolex milestones, encoded in gold, steel, and diamonds.

Available upon request: additional photos, wrist shots, and bracelet sizing information.