2004 Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph Watch 36 116264 Black Dial Oyster Bracelet - Cal. 3135

Watch Overview

This is a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Turn-O-Graph Ref. 116264, a significant model introduced in 2004 and produced until 2011. Crafted in Switzerland, it features a 36mm stainless steel Oyster case paired with an 18k white gold fluted bi-directional rotating bezel — a distinctive hallmark of the Turn-O-Graph. Its black dial is accented by luminous baton markers, silver-tone hands, a red sweep second hand, and a date window at 3 o’clock magnified by the Cyclops lens. The watch is fitted with a stainless steel Oyster bracelet Ref. 72200 and a secure Rolex clasp.

Inside, it houses the robust Rolex Caliber 3135 automatic movement, offering 31 jewels, hacking seconds, quickset date, and a 48-hour power reserve. This COSC-certified chronometer delivers superb accuracy at 28,800 vibrations per hour and has been fully inspected and authenticated by our watchmaker. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters (330 feet), ensuring durability alongside elegance.

The Rolex Turn-O-Graph holds a unique place in horological history as Rolex’s first serially-produced rotating bezel watch, debuting in 1953. Known as the “Thunderbird” after being adopted by the U.S. Air Force squadron in the 1950s, it bridged the gap between Rolex’s classic dress watches and its emerging tool watch lineup. With its bold design and legacy, the Turn-O-Graph is now a sought-after collectible for enthusiasts. This piece is in excellent condition, with minor wear, strong case lines, and fully functional luminous material. Box & Papers: Not included.

Product Details

General Specifications

• Brand: Rolex
• Type: Wristwatch
• Model: Datejust Turn-O-Graph
• Reference: 116264
• Year / Era: 2004 - Modern
• Gender: Men’s
• Country of Manufacture: Switzerland – Swiss Made

Dial & Display

• Display: Analog
• Color: Black
• Features: Silver-tone baton hour markers with luminous dots, white minute/second track, luminous central hour/minute hands and red sweep second-hand. Date calendar at 3 o’clock with Cyclops lens.

Movement

• Type: Automatic
• Caliber: Rolex 3135
• Jewels: 31
• Movement Functions:
  • Self-winding
  • Hours, minutes, sweep seconds
  • Superlative chronometer-certified accuracy
  • Adjusted 5 positions and temperature
  • Date with quickset (referred by Rolex as a 'rapid corrector')
  • Hacking seconds
• Power Reserve:48-hours
• Frequency: 28,800 vph

Case & Band

• Material: Stainless steel
• Case Shape: Round
• Bezel: 18K white gold bi-directional bezel with fluting pattern. Turn-O-Graph
• Crystal: Sapphire with Cyclops lens
• Back: Screw
• Crown: Rolex screw-down
• Water Resistance: 100 meters (330 feet / 10 ATM / 10 bar)
• Band Type: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet with Rolex clasp. Ref. 72200
• Max. Wrist Size: This watch will include two brand new, high quality aftermarket links. This will create a total size of 8 inches. All other links are original.
• Case Back Markings: Rolex Geneva Switzerland Stainless Steel 2080

Case Measurements (mm)

• Case Size: 36
• Case Diameter w/Crown: 39
• Case Lug to Lug: 44
• Case Thickness: 11.5
• Lug Width: 20
• Band Width: 19

Additional Info

• Box & Papers: NO
• Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear; strong case, bezel, dial and bracelet; luminous material; all functional
• Extras: Fully inspected and authenticated by our watchmaker, this timepiece is running accurately and ready to wear.

History & Legacy of the Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph

The Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph was introduced in 1953 with reference 6202 and is recognized as Rolex’s first watch produced in series with a rotating bezel, a feature that later influenced models like the Submariner and GMT-Master. Soon after, the Turn-O-Graph was incorporated into the Datejust line, setting it apart as a versatile timepiece that blended classic style with functional utility. In the mid-1950s, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds aerobatic squadron adopted the model, and Rolex began marketing it in the American market under the nickname “Thunderbird.” Some examples are even known to feature the Thunderbirds insignia on the dial. While the earliest references are sometimes seen as a transitional step between Rolex’s dress and tool watches, the Turn-O-Graph earned its own place in history. Produced in a range of metal variations over the decades, it remained in the catalog until it was discontinued in 2011, and today it is regarded as a distinctive and collectible Rolex model.

About Second Hand Horology

At SECOND HAND HOROLOGY, we offer a curated selection of watches ranging from vintage to modern, including both brand-new and pre-owned timepieces. We’re committed to quality, accuracy, and integrity. Our listings feature:

Professional, unedited photography and clear, transparent descriptions. Every watch is thoroughly inspected and securely packaged to ensure a confident, seamless buying experience.

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