The Rolex “Thunderbird” is a watch with a fascinating history. Officially known as the “Oyster Perpetual Datejust,” it first appeared in the 1950s.
Its most distinctive feature is its rotating bezel, the only one of its kind on a Rolex watch. This bezel was supposedly developed to help pilots measure flight times.
The nickname “Thunderbird” comes from the fact that in 1956, Colonel Don Ferris, leader of the US Air Force’s aerobatic team “Thunderbirds,” commissioned a special Rolex watch to commemorate his retirement.
US Air Force aerobatic team Thunderbirds
Colonel Ferris was a hero of the Korean War and had flown all over the world leading the Thunderbirds. He wanted a rugged watch that could withstand the rigors of flight, and Rolex was his choice.
Rolex created a special Datejust model with a rotating bezel and presented it to Colonel Ferris. This model later became known as the “Thunderbird.”
With its sporty design and high functionality, the Thunderbird became popular not only with pilots but also with many watch enthusiasts. However, production ended in 2011, making it a difficult model to find today.
History of the Thunderbird
- 1956: The first Thunderbird (Ref.6609) appears.
- 1959: Ref.1625 appears.
- 1977: Ref.16263 appears.
- 2000: Ref.116263 appears.
- 2011: Production ends.
The Thunderbird, while a derivative of the Datejust, has undergone its own unique evolution. The rotating bezel, which initially rotated in both directions, was later changed to unidirectional rotation, making it more practical.
It also comes in a wide variety of materials and dial variations, making it a popular collector’s item.
The Appeal of the Thunderbird
- Sporty and elegant design
- Unique rotating bezel function
- Wide variety of variations
- Rarity
The Thunderbird holds a special place in Rolex history, and its appeal remains strong today.