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The Rolex reference 1625 is a vintage Datejust Turn-O-Graph with a rotating bezel and date. Its mix of dress-watch proportions and a functional bezel gives it a distinct place in the Datejust line, though “under the radar” is best understood as a description of its profile—not proof that it is overlooked, undervalued, or a bargain.
What is a Rolex 1625 Thunderbird?
Reference 1625 is a Datejust variant in the Turn-O-Graph line. Sotheby’s catalogues it as a “Thunderbird” Datejust, while Phillips describes the 1625 as a later reinterpretation of the original Thunderbird/Turn-O-Graph, with an updated case shape and movement. The Thunderbird name is associated with Turn-O-Graph/Datejust watches, but the account of how the name came into use is not established here by a primary Rolex archival record; RolexMagazine discusses the history as a specialist secondary source.
The Turn-O-Graph’s rotating bezel is central to its identity. Phillips places the design within Rolex’s development of rotating-bezel watches and interprets it as part of the lineage leading toward later Rolex sports watches. That is Phillips’ historical interpretation, rather than a direct statement from Rolex.
Is the Rolex 1625 a Turn-O-Graph Datejust?
Yes. The 1625 is a Turn-O-Graph version of the Datejust, rather than a separate model unrelated to the Datejust. The reference belongs to a family whose earlier and later generations can have different specifications, so details from another Turn-O-Graph should not automatically be applied to a 1625.
Metal and individual-watch differences
Phillips lists 1625 examples in yellow gold, steel and yellow gold, and steel with a white-gold bezel. The reference therefore does not denote one universal metal configuration.
A Sotheby’s circa-1964 example illustrates why it matters to distinguish a catalogue lot from the reference as a whole. That specific watch had a 35 mm stainless-steel case, white-gold bezel, date, automatic calibre 1560 with 26 jewels, and Jubilee bracelet. Those are details of that lot, not specifications guaranteed for every 1625.
Rank #2
- Imported
- Pre-Loved Condition: Very Good; Minor scratches and wear on case and band.
- Case Size/Width: 36mm, Watch Height: 12mm, Band Width: 20mm, Wrist circumference: 7.0"
- Band material: Stainless steel with 18k yellow gold.
- Case material: Stainless Steel
When was the Rolex 1625 made?
Sotheby’s gives 1959 to 1977 as the production span for reference 1625. Individual watches and catalogue descriptions may refer to a particular approximate date; Sotheby’s, for example, describes its cited watch as circa 1964.
Why might the 1625 fly under the radar?
The phrase points to the watch’s character, not a measured ranking of collector attention. The 1625 combines Datejust cues with a rotating bezel, giving it a different profile from a conventional Datejust while retaining the family identity. That blend can make it an interesting reference to investigate, but the available auction records do not establish that it is objectively overlooked or less expensive than comparable watches.
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- Pre-Loved Condition: Very Good; Light scratching and wear throughout watch
- Length: , Height: , Depth:
- Made in Switzerland
- Oyster clasp closure
- Signature upon delivery required
What to check before buying a Rolex 1625
A reference number alone cannot establish the condition or originality of an individual vintage watch. Auction catalogue examples show that 1625s appear in established sale catalogues, but they do not authenticate a watch offered elsewhere or amount to a complete inspection checklist.
- Request clear photographs and available documentation.
- Have the reference and serial, movement, dial, bezel, case, and bracelet examined by a qualified vintage Rolex specialist.
- Ask about service history and any work or replacement parts.
- Do not assume a dial or other component is original without verification of the specific watch.
What is a Rolex 1625 worth?
No current fair price or market average is established by the auction pages cited here. Auction estimates and results belong to particular lots at particular times; they are not current price guidance. A sound assessment depends on the exact metal configuration, condition, originality, provenance, and service needs, as well as genuinely comparable recent sales.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Pre-Loved Condition: Very Good; Light scratching and scuffing throughout hardware
- Length: , Height: , Depth:
- Made in Switzerland
- Oyster clasp closure
- Signature upon delivery required
Rank #4
- Imported
- Pre-Loved Condition: Very Good; Scratches and minor wear on case and band.
- Case Size/Width: 26mm, Watch Height: 11mm, Band Width: 13mm, Wrist circumference: 5.5"
- Band material: Stainless steel with 18k yellow gold.
- Case material: Stainless Steel
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