In the world of vintage Rolex, double-signed Tiffany watches are perennially popular. The collaboration between Rolex and Tiffany, said to have begun in the 1950s, was born when Rolex, whose recognition outside of Europe was still low at the time, partnered with Tiffany, which had immense brand recognition in the U.S., to enter the American market.
Similar collaborations with Tiffany can be found with Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Omega. After World War II, as a victorious nation and the only major power whose mainland was not a battlefield, the U.S. boasted overwhelming economic prosperity. This episode symbolizes that era.
The creation of a double-signed Rolex and Tiffany model involves a Rolex watch being assembled in Switzerland, then exported to the U.S. There, it is disassembled at the Tiffany factory, and "TIFFANY & CO." is printed on the dial. Consequently, not only do the font and print quality of "TIFFANY & CO." differ, but there are also various font variations among individual pieces.
The "TIFFANY & CO." print, with its distinctly different feel from other ROLEX markings, creates a charming dissonance on the precisely crafted Swiss dial. This Ref.16013, in particular, is one of the iconic double-signed Tiffany models, as featured in catalogs of the time.
It is sometimes mistakenly claimed that double-signed watches with imprecise printing are fakes. However, this is incorrect. In fact, thin lines or a hand-drawn appearance are common characteristics, which could even be said to contribute to their distinct American charm. Because of this, it's almost impossible to determine authenticity based solely on the print.
Amidst this, the present watch comes with a guarantee bearing its serial number. Without this guarantee, it would be almost impossible to confidently purchase a Tiffany double-signed watch. Furthermore, this piece also includes the invoice from its overhaul at Rolex. It may just be paper, but it is significant paper. These two pieces of paper are the sole proof that this double-signed watch is indeed genuine.
The base model is the Ref.16013, a symbol of success in the 80s and one of the best-selling models of its time. Looking at the two-tone champagne dial again today, it doesn't appear overly flashy. Its distinct American straightforwardness, after nearly 40 years, aligns well with the undeniably aged and refined impression it exudes.
This is undeniably a superb piece, especially given its double-signed Tiffany status. I confidently recommend it as a watch you can cherish for a long time.
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