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 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 | About us
Perfect for smart evenings and discerning office wear, this 1985 Rolex Datejust 36mm with its rare white Boiler Gauge dial lends vintage flair to a tailored suit. In very good condition, it pairs effortlessly for auctions, gallery openings, or daily commutes when understated Swiss refinement is desired.
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 makes this Rolex Datejust 16014 "Boiler Gauge" unique? A: This 1985 vintage piece features the rare and highly collectible "Boiler Gauge" dial. Distinguished by its Art Deco-style Arabic numerals and a unique railroad minute track, this dial layout resembles pressure gauges from the era of steam, setting it apart from standard stick or Roman numeral Datejusts.
Q: What materials are used in this 36mm model? A: The Reference 16014 combines a rugged stainless steel Oyster case with a luxurious 18ct white gold fluted bezel. It is fitted with a classic stainless steel Jubilee bracelet, offering a sophisticated two-tone texture while maintaining a monochrome silver aesthetic.
Q: Does this vintage watch have a quickset date function? A: Yes. Being a 1980s model (Reference 16014), it is powered by the Rolex Calibre 3035 automatic movement. This movement introduced the "quickset" date feature, allowing you to rapidly adjust the date via the crown without turning the hands through a full 24-hour cycle.
Q: What type of crystal does it have? A: In keeping with its vintage character, this watch features an acrylic (Plexiglass) crystal. Unlike modern sapphire, acrylic has a warm, charming glow and can be easily polished to remove light scuffs, though it is less scratch-resistant than modern glass.
Q: Is the watch water-resistant? A: While the Oyster case was originally water-resistant, we cannot guarantee water resistance on vintage timepieces from 1985. We recommend treating it as splash-resistant only and avoiding swimming, showering, or submersion unless it has been professionally pressure-tested recently.
Q: Will it fit my wrist? A: This watch fits a wrist size of approximately 17.5cm or smaller. The 36mm case is a classic unisex size that wears elegantly on a variety of wrists. Please contact us with your measurements if you require sizing advice or additional links.
Q: How do I maintain the movement? A: The automatic Calibre 3035 is a robust movement. To ensure longevity and accuracy, a full service is recommended every 5–10 years. If the watch has not been worn for a while, give the crown about 30–40 turns to power it before wearing.
Q: What is the condition and authenticity guarantee? A: This watch is in Very Good condition with light traces of use and a shiny finish with minor scratches consistent with its age. A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item, and this piece comes with our 100% originality guarantee.
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 is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
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.
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.
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.
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.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
/ Datejust
7 685 £
26%
off retail price
• Stainless steel case, 36mm
• Fluted bezel
• Rare white "Boiler Gauge" dial
• Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
• Date window at 3 o'clock
• Automatic movement
• From 1985