A MEN'S ROLEX 18K YELLOW GOLD AND STAINLESS STEEL AUTOMATIC BRACELET WATCH.
DATEJUST TURN-O-GRAPH THUNDERBIRD.

Brand: Rolex
Model: Datejust Turn O Graph Thunderbird
Case reference: 16253
Year: Circa 1975
Movement: Automatic, Cal. 3035
Dial: Blue, gilt applied Roman numerals with luminous applied dots, gilt outer minute division, guilt sword hands with luminous inserts, gilt centre seconds hand, date aperture at the three o'clock position with a champagne calendar disk and black Arabic numerals
Material: 18k yellow gold and stainless steel
Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Jubelee bracelet, deployment clasp
Signed: Dial, movement, case, bracelet
Dimension: 37mm

The Rolex Turn-O-Graph, often called the “Thunderbird”, was introduced in the early 1950s and is recognized as one of Rolex’s first sports watches. Originally designed as a tool for pilots and navigators, it featured a rotating bezel that allowed for easy tracking of elapsed time—paving the way for other iconic Rolex sports models like the Submariner and GMT-Master. The Turn-O-Graph earned its “Thunderbird” nickname after being used by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, further solidifying its aviation connection.

While similar in design to the Datejust, the Turn-O-Graph’s bezel allowed it to stand out, making it a practical tool as well as a luxurious accessory. The Ref. 16253, produced in the mid-1970s, combined the classic elegance of the two-tone design with the practicality of a rotating bezel, making it both versatile and iconic. Though production of the Turn-O-Graph has ceased, it remains a collectible model due to its pioneering role in the sports watch category.