Rolex Datejust

The design of the Datejust is brilliantly simple and timelessly elegant. The universal timepiece is suitable for every occasion and can be showcased with a variation of ensembles. Discrete yet unmistakable: Some elements of the Datejust are so distinct that the watch is quickly recognized. The watches namesake at three o’clock is easily one of the watch’s most essential components. Its presentation in 1945 was a sensation: Although the Datejust was not the first watch with elaborate features, it was the first watch that included a date display among other simple and functional elements. The date changes instantaneously at midnight, which allows the wearer to read the exact time and date on their watch without a moment’s hesitation.

To honour the new model, Rolex created a new bracelet: the Jubilee. Initially, it was only available with the 36 millimetre Datejust but was eventually made compatible for other models as well. Rolex clients today have a broad choice: The Datejust can be equipped with the Oyster bracelet, the Jubilee bracelet or a leather strap.

The noted Cyclops lense was presented in 1954. In order to enhance legibility, a lense was added to the glass that magnifies the date by two-and-a-half times. Nowadays, the Cyclops lense is an indispensable trademark that can be found on other models, such as the Day-Date or the Submariner.

In 1945, Rolex created an immortal and timeless watch design. The 36 millimeter Datejust has not required any major changes since its introduction. The only obvious modification was the addition of the cyclops lense in 1954. Although the Datejust has mostly stayed true to its original design since 1945, the product line offers a wide range of materials, bracelets and sizes.

Yellow gold or rose gold, white gold or steel, Oyster bracelet or Jubilee bracelet - Rolex presents endless possibilities that suit any preference. The 41 millimetre Datejust II (e.g. Ref. 116300, Ref. 116333 or Ref. 116334) is in high demand with customers who are looking for larger watch cases with an elegant design. Those who are admirers of diamonds and mother-of-pearl are sure to become enamoured with versatile watch: The “Mother-of-Pearl” Datejust (Ref. 116238) and the diamond-encrusted Datejust (Ref. 116233) light up the wrist with sparkle and delight.

The small Lady-Datejust comes to life on a delicate wrist. Rolex created two designs of the eternal classic: the 26 millimetre small Lady-Datejust (e.g. Ref. 179173 or Ref. 179178) and the slightly bigger Datejust Lady 31 millimetre (Ref. 178273 or Ref. 178248). The so-called Lady-Datejust - an edition with a mother-of-pearl watch face - is particularly striking. Loved by the female public of all ages, the Lady-Datejust is well-known everywhere as the classic lady’s watch by Rolex.

The model range of the Datejust line is extraordinary: Datejust II, Lady-Datejust, Datejust Lady 31 as well as many other designs. The long history of the watch has seen many special editions released.

Today, it cannot be said for certain how many Datejust watches there are in the world. The vintage market offers an incredible amount of rarities with unusual dials or exceptional prints. Both new and used Datejust watches are worth consideration. The success of the watch that was launched in 1945 proves that the model does not go out of style. The design of watches with the references 116234 and 116234 as well as the earlier references 16234 and 16200 is very similar to the very first Datejust and is also meant for lasting use.

It is a watch that made history and yet is still in tune with the times.