Brand
Rolex Datejust II Ref. 116333 Two Tone With 'Wimbledon' Dial
Rolex launched the Datejust II in 2009 as a follow-up to the original Datejust. At the time, it was significant for bringing the Datejust aesthetic into a 41mm sized format for the first time. While primarily keeping to the classic Datejust aesthetic pioneered by the brand since the collection's launch in 1947, it notably included a proportionally larger lug-to-lug ratio, boxier lugs, and a thicker bezel compared to the original 36mm design. In the end, the Datejust II was short lived, being replaced seven years after its introduction in 2016 with the Rolex Datejust 41, which reverted back to the original and more tapered silhouette of the initial 36mm watch.
Over the course of its seven year production, Rolex produced at least fifteen variants of the watch, including both steel and two-tone cases; diamond, applied, and Roman numeral dials; and the choice for either smooth or fluted bezels. While diverse in its short production run, each of the watches shared some common elements, most notably a 41mm Oyster case, 100 meters of water resistance, a three o'clock date indicator magnified via a Cyclops window, and the automatic Rolex caliber 3136, a chronometer-certified movement featuring a Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers.
This particular Datejust II represents a special edition variation with what is affectionately known as a "Wimbledon" dial. The relationship between Rolex and Wimbledon extends back to 1978, the year that the watchmaker became the official timekeeper of the tournament. This partnership ultimately launched Rolex's long-running support of the sport of tennis as we know it today; the Swiss brand now serves as the Official Timekeeper of all four Grand Slam tournaments.
Over the years, the Datejust has become the unofficial watch of Wimbledon, so it's only fitting that Rolex has created a few special edition Wimbledon Datejusts along the way. These watches, like the ref. 116333 we have here, are notable for their slate grey dials with sunburst finish and black Roman numeral hours markers outlined in Wimbledon green. However, there are a few characteristics that set this ref. 116333 apart from other Datejusts with Wimbledon dials, including the combination of a two-tone, or Rolesor, case, the fluted bezel, and the Oyster bracelet.
This particular Rolex Datejust is in overall excellent pre-owned condition, meaning there are very light signs of wear and some small scratches on the case and bracelet that come with being lived with. There is a light blemish on the Cyclops lens as well as some visible wear to the crown. The case has been professionally refinished. The fluted bezel is crisp and presents as the centerpiece of the watch. The bracelet is tight with little stretch between the links. The dial presents in a gorgeous slate grey that varies in the light from deep to light. The rehaut is engraved beneath six o'clock with the serial number "V995XXX." During our quality control check, any necessary adjustments are made to ensure the watch is functioning as intended.
In 1905, Hans Wilsdorf and his brother-in-law Alfred Davis set up shop as Wilsdorf and Davis in London. In 1908, this company would officially register the name Rolex, and by 1915, they had relocated the brand to Switzerland, where the headquarters remain to this day. Rolex has notched countless firsts in watchmaking, such as the chronometer-certified wristwatch and the first cased wristwatch with water resistance up to 100 meters. The brand also became a ubiquitous force in our culture on the wrist of countless celebrities and as the official timekeeper of numerous sporting events.
