Two-tone, gold and steel watches are mounting a comeback, according to a report over at The New York Times, as style-savvy men embrace the brash watch style associated with Rolex and the excess of the 1980s. There were a good number of two-tone releases this year at Baselworld — the Tudor Heritage Black Bay, the Girard-Perreguaex Laureato, and the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra to name a few. And according to The Times, vintage two-tone sports watches have become more popular as they, perhaps ironically, represent a better value than their all-steel brethren. Seize the opportunity, then, to score one of these three two-tone vintage Rolexes for yourself before they inevitably become more sought-after and more expensive.
1987 Rolex Datejust
What we like: The Datejust is an essential watch for vintage collectors and one of the most accessible ways into Rolex ownership. The “jubilee” style bracelet and fluted bezel are two quintessentially ’80s Rolex design flourishes that go especially well with the two-tone color scheme, and the watch appears to be in great condition despite its age.
From the seller: Light markings throughout bracelet; has passed a pressure test of at least 30 meters.
1986 Rolex Turn-O-Graph
What we like: Originally launched alongside the Submariner, by the ’80s, the Turn-O-Graph had become Rolex’s “dark horse,” according to Analog/Shift. Still, it’s a less common sight than Datejusts or Submariners from the era and thus is worthy of consideration. This example has some interesting “bark” texturing on the rotating bezel — a very unique touch.
From the seller: Case is in very good condition with some signs of use and wear, particularly on the sides. Yellow gold bezel is in very good condition with no signs of over-polishing, retaining its factory bark finishing, but does have minimal signs of use and wear.
1979 Rolex GMT ‘Nipple Dial’
What we like: Don’t snicker. Okay, maybe snicker a little — the “nipple dial” GMT is named after its hour markers for a pretty obvious reason. Anyway, the rest is classic GMT, and the two-tone bracelet and case match beautifully with the patinated black and gold dial and bezel.
From the seller: Case that has previously been polished and has and has wear from use; the hour, minute and second hand are newer service hands. The watch is running at COSC spec.
