Pre-owned Rolex Datejust 36 ref 16233 (1990) is, for many, the quintessential two-tone Rolex. The Datejust itself dates back to 1945, when Rolex introduced it as the world’s first self-winding chronometer wristwatch with an automatically changing date display. Over the decades, the collection evolved into the backbone of the Rolex catalog thanks to its versatility and timeless design. Unlike many watches tied to a specific era, the Datejust has remained relevant generation after generation because Rolex has updated it gradually rather than dramatically reinventing it. The ref. 16233 was one of the defining Datejust references of the 1980s and 1990s and is still hugely popular today because it’s got both vintage charm and modern practicality. It introduced the sapphire crystal to the two-tone Datejust while still retaining slimmer case proportions and lighter bracelet construction compared to newer references. Rolex eventually replaced the 16233 with the ref. 116233, which introduced a more substantial case and bracelet design with solid center links and broader lugs. Many collectors still prefer the older 16233 because it feels more classic and elegant on the wrist. Shop Rolex Datejust 36 Collection