Introduced around 2008, the reference 116000 features the in-house Calibre 3130 automatic movement, a time-only chronometer widely respected for its long-term reliability. Its 36mm Oyster case is paired with a smooth, domed bezel and Oyster bracelet. The 116000 is regarded as the archetype of the Oyster Perpetual, embodying the fundamental innovations that underpin all modern Rolex models.
Founded in 1905 by the visionary Hans Wilsdorf, Rolex was born from a singular, revolutionary idea: to transform the wristwatch from a fragile piece of jewelry into a robust, precise, and reliable daily companion. This ambition was masterfully realized in 1926 with the invention of the Oyster, the world's first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch case. Proven by a triumphant swim across the English Channel on the wrist of Mercedes Gleitze, the Oyster case established the foundational pillar of the brand's identity—performance and dependability in the most demanding conditions—a standard to which every Rolex is held to this day.
Building upon this foundation, Rolex went on to pioneer the defining features of the modern watch, including the self-winding Perpetual rotor in 1931 and the date-displaying Datejust in 1945. The brand then cemented its legend by creating the "professional tool watch" category, developing iconic models engineered for specific endeavors: the Submariner for deep-sea diving, the GMT-Master for intercontinental pilots, and the Cosmograph Daytona for the world of motorsports.
Today, Rolex positions itself as the universal symbol for success, quality, and prestige. As a fully integrated manufacturer, the brand exercises complete control over every component, from smelting its own proprietary gold alloys to assembling its "Superlative Chronometer" certified movements with uncompromising precision.
Overall Grade: 9 / 10 | Mint Condition, Light Visible Wear Production: 2018 Contents: Full-set Genre: Everyday Sports Watch
Size: 36m Thickness: approx. 12mm Lug Width: 20mm
Case: Stainless steel Oyster case, mirrored sides, brushed lugs, light signs of wear Bezel: Stainless steel dome bezel, mirrored finish, light signs of wear Dial: Black dial, applied markers, lumed Hands: Baton hands, lumed
Crown: Stainless steel screw-down crown, light signs of wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, mint Bracelet: Original oyster bracelet and clasp, light signs of wear Caseback: Solid steel screw caseback, light signs of wear Movement: Automatic Chronometer Caliber: 3130