1990 Rolex Watches

Discover the defining Rolex references of 1990—a year that saw the introduction and refinement of legendary models like the Submariner, Datejust, Daytona, and Day-Date. These timepieces showcase Rolex’s transition to modern materials and movements, making them highly sought-after among collectors and investors.

Top Rolex Models Launched or Produced in 1990

Rolex Submariner 16610

• Case: 40 mm stainless steel
• Bezel: Unidirectional aluminum insert
• Movement: Caliber 3135 with quickset date
• Water Resistance: 300 m

This is the first Submariner in 1990 to feature Rolex’s in-house 3135 movement, elevating precision and durability.

Rolex Datejust 16233 & 16234

• Materials: Two-tone Rolesor (steel + 18k yellow or white gold)
• Crystal: Sapphire with Cyclops lens
• Bracelet: Jubilee or Oyster

These 31 mm and 36 mm models mark Rolex’s full adoption of sapphire crystals for enhanced scratch resistance.

Rolex Daytona 16520

• Movement: Zenith El Primero-based Caliber 4030 (modified by Rolex)
• Dial: Black or white “Panda” style
• Bezel: Steel tachymeter

Launched in 1988 but produced heavily through 1990, the 16520 remains prized for its historic El Primero lineage.

Rolex Day-Date 18238

• Material: Solid 18k yellow gold
• Movement: Caliber 3155 with double quickset
• Bracelet: President with concealed clasp

A year-round flagship, the 18238 exemplifies Rolex’s pinnacle of luxury in 1990.

Technical Milestones in Rolex’s 1990 Lineup

Rolex’s 1990 releases combined time-tested design with modern innovations:

• Sapphire Crystals: First across Datejust and Submariner for superior scratch resistance
• Caliber 3135 Deployment: Quickset date function in both Submariner and Datejust models
• Zenith El Primero Legacy: The Daytona 16520 kept this famed automatic chronograph alive until Rolex’s own 4130 debut
• 904L Stainless Steel: Improved corrosion resistance and polishability