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.
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Ideal for a boardroom meeting or a refined evening out, this vintage Rolex Datejust 36mm in stainless steel exudes understated elegance. Its fluted bezel and rare tropical tapestry dial add distinctive charm, while the automatic movement and date at 3 o'clock ensure practical sophistication. A timeless 2000 piece that transitions effortlessly from day to night.
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 Tropical Tapestry Dial (2000)? A: It’s a classic Datejust in stainless steel with a 36mm Oyster case, fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet. This example features a rare “tropical tapestry” dial—Rolex’s vertical‑ribbed tapestry pattern that has naturally aged to a warm brown tone—paired with an automatic movement and a date display at 3 o’clock.
Q: Which reference and movement does it use? A: The watch is a Datejust ref. 16234 (as indicated in the listing). Most 16234 models from 2000 are powered by the Rolex Calibre 3135 automatic movement with a quickset date and hacking seconds. If you’d like us to confirm the exact calibre in this piece, we’re happy to provide details.
Q: What does “tropical tapestry” dial mean? A: “Tapestry” refers to the dial’s distinctive vertical ribbed texture. “Tropical” describes the organic colour change that can occur over decades due to UV exposure, humidity and age, often turning originally lighter tones into rich browns. Each tropical dial is unique; the patina is considered desirable by many collectors.
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 cannot be guaranteed without recent sealing and pressure testing. This piece has a Rolex service report from November 2024, which is reassuring; however, we still recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless the watch has just been pressure‑tested and the crown is fully screwed down.
Q: Does it have a sapphire crystal and Cyclops magnifier? A: Most ref. 16234 Datejust models feature a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal with the Cyclops date magnifier. We can confirm the crystal specification for this watch on request.
Q: Is the fluted bezel made of white gold? A: On the ref. 16234, the fluted bezel is typically 18k white gold, paired with a stainless steel case. While this is standard for the reference, we can verify the bezel material on this specific piece if you wish.
Q: How do I set the time and date on a quickset Datejust? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: manual wind (about 20–30 turns if stopped). Position 2: quickset the date. Position 3: set the time. Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the bracelet be adjusted? A: This watch fits a wrist up to approximately 21cm. It comes with 2 extra links, and we can size the Jubilee bracelet for you prior to shipping. If you prefer a strap, most 36mm Datejust models have a 20mm lug width—contact us for compatible options.
Q: What is included, and is it authentic? A: Included accessories are box, tags, hang tags, a Rolex service report (Nov 2024) and 2 extra links. A Retro Tale specialises in authentic luxury vintage pieces; every item is professionally authenticated and comes with our 12‑month mechanical guarantee.
Q: What accuracy and service interval should I expect? A: A well‑maintained Datejust with Calibre 3135 typically keeps time close to period COSC standards (around −4/+6 seconds per day). Service intervals are commonly every 5–10 years, or sooner if you notice performance or water‑resistance issues. Keep the watch away from strong magnets and have it checked if it runs fast/slow or shows condensation.
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.
Outside EU, Åland and UK: Please note that customers outside of EU, Åland and UK are responsible upon delivery for any import duties, goods and services tax (GST), value added tax (VAT), customs fees, and any other tax on top of the A Retro Tale listed price. Delivery delays may occur due to external factors such as customs clearance, holidays etc.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Europe: 1-4 business days.
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.
• Stainless steel case and Jubilee bracelet
• 36mm case with a fluted bezel
• Rare tropical tapestry dial
• Date display at 3 o'clock
• Automatic movement
• Year 2000
• Vintage
