Rolex Datejust 36 Yellow Rolesor — Cut Diamond Bezel Black Jubilee Diamond Dial | Ref. 116243

Reference 116243 is part of the previous-generation Datejust 36 family — a reference that remained in production for many years and developed a devoted secondary-market following. The Yellow Rolesor construction pairs Oystersteel with 18 ct yellow gold on the bezel and bracelet centre links, and here the yellow gold bezel is set with cut diamonds in a channel configuration. The black Jubilee diamond dial — a factory dial featuring applied diamond hour markers against a deep black background with subtle guilloche texture — delivers maximum contrast between dark ground and bright stone indices, a combination that remains one of the most visually striking within the Datejust range.

Inside, the Calibre 3135 powers this reference — a movement that became one of Rolex's most celebrated, running at 28,800 vph with a 48-hour power reserve, fitted with a Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers. The 36 mm Oyster case provides water resistance to 100 metres and is finished with the characteristic interplay of polished and brushed surfaces that Rolex has refined over decades. The Jubilee bracelet in Rolesor completes the composition with five-piece link construction and the Crownclasp system.

Collectors drawn to Ref. 116243 are often navigating between the current 126xxx generation and this previous series. The 3135 movement has an exceptional track record, and the previous-generation 36 mm case has a slightly more compact lug-to-lug measurement that some wearers prefer. Diamond-bezel, black-dial Datejust 36 references in Rolesor are perennially in demand and typically show steady value retention, especially in very good to excellent condition with original bracelet.