Rolex Datejust 16018 Ferrite

This is the Rolex Datejust 16018. First introduced in 1945 to celebrate Rolex’s 40th anniversary, the Datejust pioneered the automatically changing date window that has since become an industry standard. While most iterations were produced in stainless steel or a mixture of steel and gold, the reference 16018 is cased in solid 18k yellow gold. A reference that modernized the iconic model, its introduction brought about key technical enhancements, most notably a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and the Caliber 3035 automatic movement with its quickset date function.

While Rolex Datejusts are a dime a dozen, the defining feature of this piece is its factory ferrite dial with applied gold Roman numerals. An iron oxide compound with a metallic, dark gray luster and a subtle natural grain, ferrite is among the least common stone dials produced by the brand. The process of manufacturing natural stone dials required slicing mineral matrices into ultra-thin discs—a process with high failure rates that severely limited production numbers. Alongside its more famous siblings such as the onyx and lapis lazuli dial variants, ferrite remains lesser known but no less interesting.

Accented by applied gold Roman numerals, the metallic, dark-grey texture of the ferrite creates a eye-catching contrast against the warm 18k yellow gold case. It is a dial that flies completely under the radar from a distance and only reveals its rich, natural striations only upon closer inspection. A truly magnificent iron derivative, it is undoubtedly a stone befitting of Rolex's best-selling model.

This Rolex Datejust 16018 is offered in overall very good vintage condition. The 18k yellow gold case remains well-preserved, featuring thick, even lugs and crisp, fully legible hallmarks on the caseback. There are some minor dents present on the caseback, consistent with age and honest wear. The ferrite stone dial is in excellent condition, with no cracks, hairlines, or chips present across its surface. The crystal is clean with no flaws. The watch comes fitted on a leather strap with its original Rolex 18k yellow gold buckle without any box or papers and is in full working order.

Brand Rolex

Model Datejust

Reference 16018

Case 36mm

Movement Automatic

Case material Yellow Gold

Bracelet material Leather

Year circa 1986

Condition Very Good

Accessories Original Rolex Buckle Only

Limited No