We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
This vintage Rolex Datejust 36mm Ref 16234 watch from 1996 exemplifies timeless elegance with its classic stainless steel case and bracelet, distinguished by a refined white gold bezel and black dial. In very good condition, this beautifully preserved timepiece features a precise automatic movement and comfortable 21cm bracelet, maintaining its sophisticated appeal with only minimal signs of wear. Whether you're attending important business meetings, celebrating special occasions, or enhancing your everyday professional attire, this iconic Datejust brings authentic Swiss luxury to any ensemble whilst embodying Rolex's legendary commitment to precision and enduring design.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the Rolex Datejust 36mm Ref 16234 (1996)? A: It’s a classic 36mm Oyster Perpetual Datejust in stainless steel with an 18k white gold fluted bezel, automatic movement, and date display with the Cyclops magnifier. This specific piece is from 1996 and features a black dial and stainless steel bracelet.
Q: Which movement does the 16234 use? A: Most Datejust 16234 models house the Rolex Calibre 3135—an automatic self‑winding movement with quickset date, hacking seconds, and a 28,800 vph beat rate. It’s renowned for robustness and reliable timekeeping. We can confirm the movement in this exact watch on request.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I swim with it? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres, but water resistance on vintage watches is not guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless the seals have been replaced and the watch tested. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any exposure to moisture.
Q: Does this era have a sapphire crystal and Cyclops magnifier? A: Yes—Datejust 16234 models from the 1990s typically feature a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal with the Cyclops over the date. If you’d like us to verify the crystal on this specific watch, please ask.
Q: How do I set the time and date on a 16234? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: manual wind (about 20–30 turns if it has stopped). Position 2: quickset the date. Position 3: set the time. Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly to maintain water resistance.
Q: Will the 36mm size suit my wrist, and can the bracelet be adjusted? A: 36mm is a versatile, timeless size that suits many wrists. This bracelet fits up to approximately 21cm and can be sized to your measurement before shipping. Additional links may be sourced subject to availability—contact us for guidance.
Q: What is the lug width, and can I fit different straps? A: The 16234 typically has a 20mm lug width. You can fit leather or other straps and different Rolex bracelets that match the correct lug width and end‑link type. We’re happy to advise on compatible options.
Q: How can I confirm the exact reference and production year? A: The reference is usually engraved between the lugs at 12 o’clock and the serial at 6 o’clock (bracelet removal required). The T‑prefix serial on this watch corresponds to 1996. A Retro Tale can verify these details for you.
Q: What accuracy and service interval should I expect? A: A well‑maintained Datejust with Calibre 3135 should keep time close to period COSC standards (around −4/+6 seconds per day). Service every 5–10 years is often recommended, or sooner if there are timekeeping or water‑resistance concerns.
Q: What is included and how do you guarantee authenticity and support? A: This watch is delivered without original box or papers unless stated otherwise. A Retro Tale professionally authenticates every piece and provides a 12‑month mechanical guarantee, secure insured shipping, and a 14‑day return policy. Please contact us for additional photos or details.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
The shipping fee will be clearly shown during the checkout process. In some cases—such as during promotions or depending on your delivery location—shipping costs may vary. If no special rates apply, the standard international shipping fee of $49 will be charged.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
/ Datejust
33%
off retail price
- Rolex Datejust 36mm Ref 16234 1996 Watch
- Stainless Steel Case 36mm
- Stainless Steel Bracelet
- White Gold Bezel
- Automatic Movement
- Bracelet Size Aprox 21cm
