Rolex Datejust 36 Yellow Rolesor — White Roman Dial, Fluted Bezel | Ref. 116233

Reference 116233 is a long-running and widely respected expression of the 36 mm Datejust in Yellow Rolesor with a fluted bezel and a white dial carrying Roman numeral hour markers — arguably the configuration most closely associated with the Datejust's mid-century origins. Produced across a substantial period before the transition to the 126xxx reference series, the 116233 represents the Calibre 3135 generation of the 36 mm Datejust and remains one of the most collected references in the line's history.

Calibre 3135 was Rolex's workhorse in-house movement for the Datejust for over three decades — a 28,800 vph automatic with a Glucydur balance wheel, a Breguet overcoil, and a 48-hour power reserve. Though superseded in current production by the 3235, the 3135 has demonstrated exceptional reliability and serviceability over its long production run. The yellow gold fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet outer links provide Rolesor's signature contrast with the Oystersteel case and bracelet centre links, while the white Roman dial offers outstanding legibility against the warm metallic frame.

Among pre-owned Datejust collectors, the 116233 in white Roman configuration is treated as a foundational reference — accessible, immediately identifiable, and historically significant as a connecting thread across generations of the model. Condition and box-and-papers status drive value substantially, with excellent examples retaining firm resale prices. Its familiarity makes it an excellent entry point into serious Rolex collecting.