Datejust Reference 16030, a stainless steel automatic wristwatch with date and Buckley dial, Circa 1981

The Rolex Datejust 16030 was introduced in 1977 as an upgrade to the reference 1603. The 16030 remained in only from steel with an engine-turned bezel. It was eventually taken out of production in 1988. Although it is an early reference the 16030 kept the look of the earlier 1603, but has the updated movement with a quick-set date. This 16030 features a Buckley dial. The “Buckley” dial features painted Roman numerals which stand out boldly against the white dial. The “Buckley” name took inspiration after an avid New York-based Rolex collector and dealer. His passion for the rare and well-crafted dial, despite its popularity at the time. This dial is mostly found on vintage Datejust models circa 1970’s- 1980’s.