Released in 1945, to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Rolex, the Datejust is one of the most emblematic wristwatch ever produced. It owes its success to its classic appeal, reliable movement, and timeless design. The reference 16018 was launched in 1977, powered by the updated caliber 3035 which introduces the quickset function.

This is an excellent example of a Datejust with a hard stone dial, here tiger eye, usually appearing on Day-Date models but used far less for the Datejust and making this one even rarer. There are highly sought after by collectors as the manufacture of these dials is delicate and their cost high, so few were produced.

The brand would occasionally supply special order pieces, most commonly Middle Eastern royalty, and include that person’s official crest or signature on the dial, in this case the signature of Qaboos bin Said (1940-2020), Sultan Of Oman. The Sultan’s name is printed in Arabic, in red, above the standard “Superlative chronometer” certification at six o’clock. The Sultan was known for combining his passion for watchmaking with diplomacy.

Associating such rare features, tiger eye dial with khanjar crest, this watch is a must-have for collectors.