Rolex Datejust 36 Yellow Rolesor — Silver Index Dial, 52-Diamond Bezel | Ref. 116243

Reference 116243 pairs the 36 mm Datejust's Oystersteel case with a yellow gold 52-diamond bezel and a silver index dial, producing a gem-set variant of the classic Rolesor configuration that balances precious sparkle with everyday wearability. The 52-stone factory diamond bezel — set at the Rolex manufactory in Geneva with matched brilliant-cut diamonds — encircles a silver dial whose applied hour markers provide clear, uncluttered legibility. Yellow Rolesor's two-metal construction, combining steel and 18 ct yellow gold in the case, crown, and bracelet, gives the watch a warm, dressy identity without the weight or price point of a full gold reference.

Reference 116243 is driven by the Calibre 3135, one of Rolex's most celebrated self-winding movements and the power behind the Datejust 36 for over three decades. Featuring a Parachrom hairspring, Paraflex shock absorbers, and COSC chronometer certification, the 3135 provides 48 hours of power reserve and has set the benchmark for in-house sports-dress movement performance across the industry. The 100-metre water-resistant Oyster case is sealed by a Twinlock screw-down crown.

Collectors value 116243 as a transitional reference — produced in the era of the older but beloved 3135 calibre, with the factory diamond bezel that commands a premium over smooth or fluted bezel variants. The combination of the silver index dial's clean simplicity and the brilliant-cut diamond bezel's glamour is a distinctly Rolex synthesis: technically rigorous, visually refined, and built to remain relevant across decades of wear and market cycles.