Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000

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About the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 is a discontinued 36mm time-only watch in Oystersteel, produced from approximately 2007 to 2020 before being replaced by the current-production 126000. At WatchGuys, we carry pre-owned examples across multiple dial configurations. The 116000 features a 36mm Oystersteel case, a smooth domed bezel, and is powered by the Caliber 3130 movement with a 48-hour power reserve. With no date complication, it offers the purest Rolex experience in a classic case size. The 116000 is best known among collectors for its "Explorer dial" variants, which feature the 3-6-9 Arabic numeral layout reminiscent of the Rolex Explorer, earning the nickname "Secret Explorer." Within the broader Rolex Oyster Perpetual collection, the 116000 represents a previous-generation reference that offers a genuine Rolex at one of the most accessible price points on the secondary market.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 Dial Options

The 116000 was produced with a range of dial options that are understated compared to its successor's vibrant lacquer palette. The most collectible variants are the "Explorer dial" configurations featuring 3-6-9 Arabic numeral hour markers in black, blue, or silver (with the blue Explorer dial being particularly sought after). Additional dial options include red grape, white grape, silver with stick indexes, white with stick indexes, black with stick indexes, and dark rhodium. The red grape dial, a warm purple-tinged tone, is another collector favorite. All dials feature applied indexes and hands with luminous fill. Unlike the current 126000 with its Chromalight blue luminescence, earlier 116000 production used Superluminova with a green glow, while later examples transitioned to Chromalight.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 Price

Pre-owned Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 prices generally range from $5,000 to $9,000 depending on the dial variant, condition, and completeness. The blue Explorer dial and red grape variants tend to command the highest prices within the range. Complete sets with original box and papers trade at a premium over watch-only examples. The 116000 offers a significant value proposition compared to the current-production Rolex Oyster Perpetual 126000, which retails at approximately $6,750 and trades above retail for most dial colors on the secondary market. The 116000 delivers a modern Rolex 36mm experience with the same essential design at a lower entry point, making it one of the most accessible ways to own a Rolex. Browse all Rolex watches for the full selection.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 vs. 126000

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 126000 replaced the 116000 in 2020. Both are 36mm Oystersteel watches with smooth domed bezels, Oyster bracelets, and no date complication. The primary difference is the movement. The 126000 uses the Caliber 3230 with a 70-hour power reserve and Chronergy escapement, a meaningful upgrade over the 116000's Caliber 3130 with 48 hours. The 126000 also introduced the vibrant lacquer dial palette (turquoise, yellow, coral red, and others) that created significant secondary market demand. The 116000's dial options are more traditional and subdued, with the Explorer dial variants being the standout configurations. On the secondary market, standard 116000 dials trade well below the 126000's classic dials, offering the same core Rolex experience at a lower price. However, the 116000's Explorer dial variants hold strong collector appeal and are not replicated in the 126000 lineup.

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Why Buy a Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 From WatchGuys

When you shop for a pre-owned Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 for sale at WatchGuys, you get more than a watch. Every piece is authenticated by our in-house watchmakers and backed by a comprehensive set of buyer protections.

Common Questions

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 FAQ

• What Is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000?

  The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 is a discontinued 36mm time-only watch in Oystersteel with a smooth domed bezel, Oyster bracelet, and no date complication. It was produced from approximately 2007 to 2020 and is powered by the Caliber 3130 self-winding movement with a 48-hour power reserve. The 116000 is best known for its "Explorer dial" variants featuring 3-6-9 Arabic numeral hour markers. Water resistant to 100 meters. It was replaced by the current-production reference 126000.

• How Much Does a Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 Cost?

  Pre-owned Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 prices generally range from $5,000 to $9,000 depending on the dial variant, condition, and completeness. The blue Explorer dial and red grape variants tend to command the highest prices within the range. Complete sets with box and papers trade at a premium over watch-only examples. The 116000 offers one of the most accessible entry points into Rolex ownership on the secondary market.

• What Is the "Explorer Dial" on the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000?

  The "Explorer dial" (also called the "Secret Explorer") refers to 116000 variants featuring 3-6-9 Arabic numeral hour markers at the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions with stick indexes at the remaining positions. This layout mirrors the iconic dial design of the Rolex Explorer I collection. The Explorer dial was available in black, blue, and silver on the 116000. The blue Explorer dial is the most collectible variant, appreciated for its sunburst blue finish combined with the Explorer-style numeral layout. This dial configuration is not available on the current-production 126000, giving it unique collector appeal.

• Is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 Discontinued?

  Yes. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 was discontinued in 2020 when Rolex replaced it with the current-production 126000. The 126000 upgraded to the Caliber 3230 with a 70-hour power reserve (compared to the 116000's Caliber 3130 with 48 hours) and introduced a vibrant lacquer dial palette. Because the 116000 is no longer in production, it is only available on the pre-owned market. The fixed supply supports stable pricing, particularly for the more desirable Explorer dial and red grape variants.

• What Is the Difference Between the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 and 126000?

  Both the 116000 and 126000 are 36mm Oystersteel Oyster Perpetual watches with smooth domed bezels, Oyster bracelets, and no date complication. The 126000 upgraded to the Caliber 3230 with a 70-hour power reserve and Chronergy escapement, compared to the 116000's Caliber 3130 with 48 hours. The 126000 introduced vibrant lacquer dials (turquoise, yellow, coral red, pistachio, lavender, and others) that have driven significant secondary market demand. The 116000's dial options are more traditional, with the Explorer dial variants and red grape being standout configurations. Standard 116000 dials trade below comparable 126000 dials, making the 116000 a strong value option for buyers who want the 36mm Oyster Perpetual experience at a lower price.

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