Rolex Turn-O-Graph 16264 – History

The Rolex Turn-O-Graph reference 16264 occupies a unique and often underappreciated place in Rolex history. Produced primarily in the early to mid-2000s, the 16264 represents one of the final executions of the Turn-O-Graph line—Rolex’s original rotating-bezel wristwatch and a direct ancestor of the Submariner.

The Turn-O-Graph lineage dates back to 1953, when Rolex introduced the first rotating bezel wristwatch to the public. Unlike later professional dive models, the Turn-O-Graph was conceived as a versatile timing watch suitable for aviation, sport, and everyday use. It quickly gained recognition for its practicality and clean design.

By the time the 16264 was released, the Turn-O-Graph had evolved into a refined sport-luxury watch within the Datejust family, combining classic Datejust proportions with a functional rotating bezel. The reference 16264 is distinguished by its stainless steel case, white gold rotating bezel, and more contemporary dial options, including the highly desirable black dial.

The Turn-O-Graph’s Place in Rolex History

Often referred to as the “Thunderbird” in earlier generations, the Turn-O-Graph was issued to the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds aerobatic team in the 1950s, cementing its tool-watch credentials. While later overshadowed by the Submariner and GMT-Master, the Turn-O-Graph remained Rolex’s most versatile timing watch—sporty, elegant, and wearable in any setting.

The 16264 represents the final era before the Turn-O-Graph line was discontinued, making it especially appealing to collectors seeking a less common Rolex sports reference with true historical significance.

Case, Bezel, and Dial

The Rolex Turn-O-Graph 16264 features a 36mm Oyster case crafted from stainless steel, maintaining classic Datejust proportions that wear comfortably on the wrist. Its defining feature is the engine-turned rotating bezel in white gold, allowing elapsed time tracking while adding visual contrast and refinement.

The black dial offers a clean, modern aesthetic with excellent legibility. Luminous hour markers and Mercedes-style hands reinforce the watch’s sport-watch roots, while the overall layout remains unmistakably Rolex.

Movement: Rolex Caliber 3135

Powering the Turn-O-Graph 16264 is the proven Rolex Caliber 3135, one of the brand’s most respected automatic movements.

• Automatic movement

• 48-hour power reserve

• Quickset date function

• COSC-certified chronometer

• Known for durability, accuracy, and ease of service

The Caliber 3135 was used across Rolex’s professional and classic lines for decades and is a major factor in the long-term reliability of the 16264.

Design and Specifications

• Reference: 16264

• Case Size: 36mm

• Case Material: Stainless steel

• Bezel: Rotating white gold Turn-O-Graph bezel

• Dial: Black with luminous hour markers

• Crystal: Sapphire with Cyclops date magnifier

• Bracelet: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet

• Water Resistance: 100 meters / 330 feet

Model Specifics

U Serial dated to 1997. Complete set with box, booklets, and warranty papers dated 2/27/1999.