For those newer to Rolex, the name Turn-O-Graph might not immediately ring a bell. Discontinued in 2011, it no longer appears in the Rolex catalogue and was often overshadowed by models like the Daytona, GMT-Master, and Submariner.

Yet the Turn-O-Graph is a watch with a fascinating and significant history. Introduced in 1953, it was Rolex’s first commercially available watch with a rotating bezel—a feature often mistakenly credited to the Submariner—and the first sports model offered in Rolesor, the combination of steel and gold.

By blending practical functionality with sporty elegance, the Turn-O-Graph laid the groundwork for what we now recognize as the modern tool watch. Its rotating bezel would go on to inspire defining features of some of Rolex’s most iconic sports watches, including the Submariner, and GMT-Master. Eventually, the Turn-O-Graph became integrated into the Datejust line, serving as its sporty variant.

The example we have here is a classic 36 mm steel variant, featuring a turnable bezel in excellent condition and a beautifully preserved case. The stepped, pie-pan style silver dial is highlighted by striking black-topped hour markers, creating a sharp contrast and timeless appeal.

It comes on a folded Jubilee bracelet, reference 6251H, with a clasp stamped “S W1” and end links marked 55. This sporty Datejust, complete with its slow-setting movement, has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and is ready to wear.

A watch like this, with its silver Linen dial, turnable bezel, and sporty charm, doesn’t come around often. Contact us today to arrange a viewing or to find out more!

Specifications:

Rolex Datejust Reference 1625 Datejust “Turn-o -graph”
36mm steel case with 18k white gold Turnable bezel
Serial 269xxx dating to 1971
Silver linen pie- pan style dial
Jubilee bracelet 6215H with 55 end links
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping

Rolex Turn- o-graph Silver linen dial ref 1625

Rolex Turn- o-graph Silver linen dial ref 1625

Before/after