The Reference

Examined to the movement.

The Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph reference 116264, affectionately known to collectors as the Thunderbird for its association with the United States Air Force aerobatic squadron, is one of the most quietly distinctive Datejusts ever produced. The 116264 carries a feature found nowhere else in the modern Datejust catalog: a bidirectional rotating bezel in 18k white gold, fluted and engineered for tracking elapsed time — a complication originally designed for pilots and divers and grafted onto the Datejust platform as a tool-meets-dress hybrid. Produced from 2004 to 2011, the 116264 represents the final generation of the Turn-O-Graph line before Rolex discontinued the model entirely. The 36mm Oystersteel case is paired with the rotating white gold fluted bezel, while the black lacquered dial carries applied luminous indices, Mercedes hands, and the signature red second hand and red date display that mark the 116264 as a Thunderbird at a glance. Powered by the in-house Rolex Caliber 3135 with paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, approximately 48 hours of power reserve, and Superlative Chronometer certification. Water-resistant to 100 meters via the Twinlock screw-down crown and worn on the Oystersteel Oyster bracelet with Oysterclasp. Pre-owned in excellent condition.

Reference details

Specifications

Brand
Rolex
Reference
116264
Model
Datejust
Movement
Automatic
Case size
36mm
Case material
Stainless Steel
Dial
Black
Condition
Pre-owned
Delivery

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