Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph

Think every Rolex watch was an instant hit? Think again.

For all of the iconic timepieces Rolex has produced in over a century of watchmaking, there have been a few noteworthy ‘misses — watches that, for one reason or another, failed to capture the imagination and open the checkbooks of the watch-buying public at large.

Out of this small but noteworthy collection of oddball timepieces, our favorite is far and away the Turn-O-Graph.  Originally released in the 1950s, the Turn-O-Graph was soon nicknamed the ‘Thunderbird’ after being selected for use by elite pilots the US Air Force's precision flying team of the same name. While the original Turn-O-Graphs were based on the standard Oyster Perpetual Datejust case, the added element of a rotating outer bezel gave it a sportier vibe and slightly larger dimensions, which for some reason never really caught on.

Turn-O-Graphs have come and gone from the Rolex lineup several times, each time with hope that a new generation of buyers would finally see the appeal — and each time the experiment has been relatively short lived. But you know what that means: One man’s miss is another man’s opportunity!

This particular Turn-O-Graph, a Reference 116264, dates to circa 2006-2007 and features a 36mm stainless steel Oyster case with a sapphire crystal, a signed crown, and a bi-directional rotating white gold fluted timing bezel (thats right),a luminous matte grey dial with applied indices, a matching handset with a red seconds hand, and a roulette date wheel. Powered by a robust and reliable chronometer-certified Rolex Caliber 3135 automatic movement, it comes paired to a stainless steel Oyster bracelet with a matching Oysterclasp with Rolex's fantastic Easylink system.

Like all Datejusts, these timepieces are incredibly usable for everyday use, and can easily be dressed-up for formal occasions or dressed-down and worn as a sporty everyday companion.

This one just packs a little bit of extra function - and we love em.

Though much younger than many of its heavy-hitting horological cousins, Rolex has been at the fore of contemporary watch design virtually since its inception in 1905 by founder Hans Wilsdorf. A veritable marketing genius, Wilsdorf understood the power of story, associating his watches with the most notable and intrepid athletes, explorers, soldiers and politicians of the 20th century. His efforts were clearly successful: Today, the word “Rolex” is nearly synonymous in the minds of millions around the word with “watch.”

From the early waterproof Oyster case of the 1920s through to the ultra-complicated Sky Dweller of today, Rolex models and innovations have captivated a global audience and permeated the zeitgeist unlike those of any other brand. Whether it’s a simple, time-only Air King, a function-first Submariner or a complicated GMT Master II for the jet set, a Rolex commands a certain respect on the wrist and says something about the discerning eye of its owner.

From the swimming of the English channel in 1927 to the scaling of Mt. Everest in 1953, Rolex watches have been associated with adventure for the better part of a century. Despite its association since the 1970s more with luxury and status than with commando operations behind enemy lines or sporting achievements, Rolex still makes one of the most robust timepieces available on the contemporary market. And the company continues to support scientific endeavors around the world.

Interestingly, for most of the firm’s history, Rolex largely did not produce its components in-house, including its movements. (Indeed, hand-wound Daytonas sold today at auction for eye-watering prices feature run-of-the-mill Valjoux movements that feature in watches from hundreds of other brands). It wasn’t until the early 21st century that Rolex became the vertically integrated manufacturing behemoth that it is today, purchasing everything from movement manufacturers to bracelet companies. (Notably, the Crown even forges its own gold.)

Whether one is attracted to the rich history of the brand or simply finds its products notable from an investment perspective, Rolex is a company whose wares are guaranteed to remain a benchmark for horological quality forever.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.