top of page
Search

First Impressions | Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 - 36mm

  • Alvin
  • 3 hours ago
  • 4 min read

It finally happened, I got it. The watch I have been lusting over for a couple of years, the one I've mentioned in every post. I got it. And I like it, I like it alot. Some people might call this a grail. But a grail is named after the Holy Grail, a mythically unattainable item, so this isn't a grail. It's just been on the lust list, it's just one of the best looking dials in existence. Find some of my real grails here.



With this in hand, on wrist, I really wish I hadn't bought the Rolex Explorer II in 2024. I could have had one of these, I could have had two (almost), but that's part of the game I guess. This is a statement piece, but one that is classy and understated. Low key. It's also a statement in the sense that, at 36mm, it cements my move into smaller watches. It's never made more sense. There is a nice feeling of having accepted the skiny wrist and moving into a different phase of this journey.


Like the Nomos Club Campus 36mm before it, when I first put it on it did feel a bit small. I panicked. Then I took a few deep breaths. The next time it felt right. Then, I removed a link or two, and it felt so right. So god damn right. The silver dial is the right one for me, in this configuration it flies under the radar, but still looks great. The Crown-3-6-9 is the nuts. The best dial configuration and balance on a time only watch, full stop. The crown is at home at 12 o'clock, the size of the hour markers and the 3, 6, 9 indices in white gold is perfect for the sunburst dial and 36mm case. I knew it was discontinued, but I didn't realise it was in 2020. Naturally, I had a quick look, there aren't many later models out there. I found a 2017 blue dial at Ramsdens Jewellery UK for £5,999 ($8000), And, a 2020 blue dial, Khanjar special order for the Sultanate of Oman, available at Subdial priced ... £9,250 ($12,400) !!! See it here (if still available). The blue dial does look great.


Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 silver dial

But did you get a deal Alvin? I hear you ask. Well, this is a 2009 piece, the oldest watch I have bought. It's weird to say that it's 17 years old, it's even weirder to say that I'm in love with a 17 year old model...so I won't. A risky purchase you might say, as would I, if it hadn't had a full service and do-over from Rolex with a warranty until 2028. How much was it Alvin? I hear you ask. It was less than £4,500 and a bit less than $6,000. And it is in very good condition. So, to answer your first question, I would say that it was a bloody good deal (from the perspective of us watch fans, not a sensible, rational person).



In other news, in a sensible turn of events, I said I was ready to sell a few of the bigger, less worn pieces. And, I have sold a piece, the Longines Master Collection engraved dial has left us. A beauty of a piece, with a dial to die for. But it wasn't being worn and it was a touch flat on the wrist - nevertheless, it will be missed.



But it won't be missed that much because Rolex fills the void with quiet ease, and assured swagger. This is an odd one, it's one of the least showy Rolexes you can buy, and I really enjoy that contradiction - it helps with the rationalisation, I am not a show-off. I feel like I want it to be noticed so I can make that point, hah!


This marks a new phase in the journey, spending proper money on a 36mm watch, you might even call it neo-vintage, but it certainly doesn't look it. Like me, it has aged gracefully and remains desirable (I wish). For the first time in my life, I actually thought, "hmm, I might not need any more watches." Then I thought better of it. It really is that kind of versatile piece that can go anywhere and do anything (GADA). The problem being that's it's too nice for many-where's and many-things.



In the words of Adam Sandler from the 2003 movie 'Anger Management' - "I feel pretty, oh so pretty, I feel pretty and witty and bright. And I pity any girl who isn't me tonight." I'm not sure what the original song is, it doesn't matter. What matters is the feeling. As first impressions go, it's a blistering start, and a great feeling - let's see how long it lasts.



Yours Crowningly,


Alvin





FAQ


Is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 discontinued?

Yes, in September 2020. The 116000 belongs to the previous 36mm Oyster Perpetual generation and is available with and without 3-6-9, and some other kooky variations, there are many available in the pre-owned market.


What size is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000?

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 is a 36mm watch.


Is the Rolex OP 116000 silver dial worth buying?

It is worth considering if you want a quiet, versatile, 36mm everyday Rolex and prefer the older, understated Oyster Perpetual style over the more hyped modern dial colours. It is one of the best looking time only Rolex OP's you can buy. The Blue dial gives more pop and show, and the black dial with pink markers is the fun, kooky option.


Is 36mm too small for a Rolex Oyster Perpetual?

No. For many wrists, 36mm is one of the best sizes Rolex makes. The Oyster case gives the watch enough presence, while the compact diameter keeps it elegant and wearable.


What is the difference between the Rolex OP 116000 and 126000?

The 116000 is the earlier discontinued 36mm generation with calibre 3130. The 126000 is the later 36mm Oyster Perpetual generation with a newer time-only movement (3230) and more modern, colourful dial range. But without the 3-6-9 I think it's a bit dull, depending on the dial colour.



Links & Things


Youtube unboxing.


Blue Dials for Sale


Oman Khanjar


Silver Dial


Black Pink




















Comments

bottom of page