A Datejust is never not a good choice. As declarative a statement as that is, it’s likely to be universally agreed. Now, I will caveat that (for most (normal sized) people) it should be a 36 mm Datejust and even better if it’s a five-digit reference or earlier. And the five-digit references just might be the goldilocks and a go-anywhere-do-anything (GADA) hall of fame contender: the classic 36 mm case proportions, incredibly comfortable and flexible hollow link jubilee bracelet, vintage cues and charm, particularly when going with tritium dial variants, while still benefiting from the modern conveniences of a sapphire crystal, removable links, quickset date, hacking seconds, etc.

This very clean and attractive reference 16233 from circa 1993 is my personal favorite dial configuration with the applied “small” Roman numeral indices. These indices have a very clean, crisp, distinct appearance that is both vintage and modern, and maybe my favorite use of applied Roman’s on any dial, period. The beautifully contrast against the gloss white “porcelain” dial and the slight patina on the insides of the gold center links adds more warmth and character, with the gold skewing slightly rose. This watch is exceptionally clean throughout with an excellent, sharp case, bracelet, two hang tags, and its original service receipt from 2004.

Case: The stainless steel 36 x 43.5 x 11.5 mm case is very full, even, and sharp, exhibiting honest, light wear from use, primarily visible on the polished lug sides. The reference 16233 and “S” serial are clearly visible between the lugs.

Dial: The gloss white dial has a rich porcelain like appearance and provides such a beautiful contrast to printed black outer track and warmth of the applied small Roman numeral hour indices. The tritium dial and hands are matching, exhibiting a light, even patina.

Movement: The caliber 3135 automatic winding, hacking, and quickset date movement is winding, setting, changing date, and running smoothly at approximately +2 s/d, averaged across 6 positions. Service history is unknown, though with any watch, Rolex especially, I always recommend servicing as needed rather than proactively introducing the possibility for issues.

Bracelet: The 62523H-18 jubilee bracelet is in very nice condition throughout with a “T-11” bracelet clasp code indicating production in the 11th month of 1995, approximately. The bracelet has 18 links, 1 of which are removable and will fit up to a 6 – 5/8” wrist.

Includes: Original service guarantee paper from 2004, serial matching hang tag, and COSC hang tag.