THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 16014
YEAR: 1983
BOX/PAPERS: NO/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 36mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

Except for the fact that the name came from the man who coined it after himself, you’d struggle to find a reason not to love a nice Buckley-dial Datejust.

The reference 16000 series was the last generation of Datejusts to retain that distinctly vintage feel. Acrylic crystals rise proudly above engine-turned or fluted bezels, while holed cases and creamy lume plots lend a relaxed, dressy character with just a touch of sportiness. Inside ticks the Calibre 3035 with quickset date, offering practicality beyond its earlier relatives.

The present watch is a reference 16014, fitted with a white-gold bezel and a striking white Buckley dial. Credit to John—he picked a good one to put his name to. The printed Roman numerals create a completely different aesthetic from the more familiar applied-marker Datejusts. Combined with the creamy tritium lume plots (all intact and beautifully aged on this example), Buckley dials remain among the most charming and distinctive Datejust configurations.

The case here is particularly strong—sharp, full, and wonderfully preserved. The original full-link 62510H bracelet with “L”-stamped clasp is equally impressive, showing minimal stretch. A new top clasp has recently been fitted, making it a pleasure to wear.

Mechanically, the watch is in excellent health, running at +2 seconds per day with 295 amplitude and a 0.2 ms beat error. It is offered with its original guarantee papers.