Why This Watch Matters

Opulent but referential to a group of military fliers, the Rolex "Thunderbird" is a relatively uncommon take on the classic Datejust.

The Full Story

The reference 1625 was produced from 1959 to 1977 in solid 18k gold, two-tone steel and yellow gold, and steel with a white-gold bezel. The best known feature is the engine-turned finish; combined with numerals, this model has an unmistakable appearance. The two-tone version is a great example of Rolex's ability to create a watch that's "high-low," especially with a rich champagne dial like the example we have here.

The origin of the name “Thunderbird” comes from the nickname of the USAF Air Demonstration Squadron, established in 1953, which was the first supersonic aerobatic team. It started with one pilot wearing this watch, and eventually it became the team’s go-to timepiece. For Rolex, it was perfect for capturing the American market with this patriotic reference. This reference actually started production under the moniker of "Turn-O-Graph," a legacy naming convention for Rolex following the ref. 6202, like the one we have in the Shop . For the ref. 1625, we find the "Thunderbird" naming much better suited for the watch, adding a layer of depth with the story of the USAF Thunderbirds.

For the watch we have here today, the standout attributes are the two-tone, stainless steel and yellow gold, case construction as well as the beautifully finished champagne dial. A large part of the genius behind Rolex is the blending of styles. A Datejust, for example, is a three hand watch with a date complication. While this configuration may lean dressy inherently, the Datejust's Oyster case and bracelet options add a layer of sport and natural ease that's nearly unique to the brand. With this Datejust "Thunderbird," blending is taken two steps further – mixing opulence and practicality in the two-tone case construction as well as the funky engine-turned applied-numeral bezel and classicism in the remainder of the design.

We paired this Thunderbird with our Sedona Watch Strap in Green, giving the watch an added bit of texture to pair with the engine turned bezel. The green color matches so well with yellow gold and two-tone Oyster cases, this pairing is one of our favorites. 

The Fine Print

Maker: Rolex
Model: Thunderbird
Reference: 1625
Year: 1973
Case No: 3280664
Material: Stainless steel and yellow gold
Dimensions: 36mm diameter; 11.5mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Yes, tritium
Caliber: Rolex, self-winding, caliber 1575
Bracelet/Strap:
Lug Width: 20mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

This watch is in overall great, honest condition. The case is strong with scratches and light nicks. The case appears to be lightly polished. The gold engine turned bezel is in good condition having developed a pleasing patina. The caseback has a few light scratches. The reverse of the lugs have some scratches from strap removal and placement.

The dial is in excellent condition without any noticeable blemishes to the champagne sunburst finish. The lume plots are all-around full, with an attractive custard patina. The hands are in good condition and have developed patina. The lume on the hands and on the dial are close to matching in color. 

The crystal is in good condition with some very fine scratches. The dial, crown, case, and movement are signed by Rolex. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.