ROLEX Datejust Thunderbird Champagne Dial 1968

The Datejust Turn-O-Graph occupies a distinctive place in Rolex history, combining the elegance of the Datejust with the functionality of a rotating timing bezel. The Turn-O-Graph concept began in the 1950s, and its association with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds gave rise to the enduring “Thunderbird” nickname. Reference 1625 followed the earlier generations and was produced from approximately 1959 into the 1970s.

Its defining feature is the rotating bezel, giving the otherwise classical Datejust architecture a subtly sporting character. Beneath it remains the familiar Oyster formula: automatic winding, a date display beneath the Cyclops magnifier, and the balanced proportions that became signatures of mid-century Rolex.

Examples from this period were fitted with Rolex’s 1500-series automatic movements, including Calibre 1560 in documented early examples. The combination of Datejust refinement and a functional rotating bezel makes the 1625 one of the more unusual expressions of vintage Rolex design.

Neither purely dress watch nor conventional sports watch, the Thunderbird exists elegantly between the two.

One of Rolex’s most distinctive interpretations of the Datejust.

• wrist size in our picture is 17cm circumference -