Did Rolex ever produce a datejust without Orig Rolex Design above the Ref Number?

[Murguia]

Hello everyone,

I’m wondering if Rolex ever produced a datejust without Orig Rolex Desgin above the reference number

My father gave me a 1980 datejust 16030 that he’s had for a long time, and when I was taking the band off today I noticed it didn’t say that above the reference number. The watch is very nice and I even had a watch maker offer to buy it off of me when I had it serviced, bracelet was off.

This was a surprise to me, when I didn’t see those 3 Little words

Thanks

Nick

[Murguia]

Pictures

[Murguia]

It’s hard to snap a pic of the serial and ref number but they are very precise and crisp. It does say stainless steel above the serial number which does date to 1980

[Murguia]

I was able to search these forums and find my answer.

1979 and prior was Registered Design

1980-1982 nothing

After 1982 it was Orig Rolex Design

Maybe that information will help someone else who looks at my post

Thank you,

Nick

[Richard Carver]

Nice watch Nick. :) And excellent sleuthing!

[Murguia]

Thanks Richard !