Rolex Datejust  Watches

Rolex Datejust: A Classic Dream Watch

On its 40th anniversary in 1945, Swiss luxury watch manufacturer Rolex introduced the Rolex Datejust, a self-winding chronometer wristwatch. When it was launched, it was the first watch with a self-winding chronometer and a date indicator on the dial. Since then, the Datejust has become one of the most well-loved watches under the brand and an iconic dress watch. While the Rolex Daytona targets professional race car drivers and the Rolex Sea-Dweller for divers, the Datejust is suited for casual wear.

The Rolex Datejust also had its fair share of the spotlight, being featured in iconic films such as American Psycho and Lost in Translation. In addition, several public figures have been spotted wearing a Datejust: from politicians and athletes to Hollywood superstars.

Price List At A Glance: The Most Popular Rolex Datejust Watches

So how much is a Rolex Datejust? Refer to the table below for a list of the different Datejust models along with their prices and notable features.

How much is a Rolex Datejust watch? 

If you’re wondering how much is a Rolex Datejust, the answer is fairly simple. As an everyday watch, just like the Rolex Datejust M278240-0015, the price starts at around $7,000 USD. The watch features an Oystersteel case and bracelet and gray dial. Additionally, the Rolex Datejust M126234-0017 is another affordable option at $9,500 USD, with a bright blue dial, fluted bezel, and a Jubilee bracelet made from Oystersteel.

The more bedazzled a Datejust watch is, the higher the price. The Rolex Datejust 126233-0026, priced at $17,750 USD, boasts an olive green dial, fluted bezel, and Roman Roman VI and IX set in diamonds. On the other hand, the Rolex Datejust 126331-0014 is a gorgeous 41mm watch with a white Mother-of-Pearl dial and an Oystersteel and Everose gold case and bracelet. The price for the Rolex Datejust 126331-0014 is $19,100 USD. The more expensive models, such as the Rolex Datejust 279135RBR-0017, boast a chocolate-colored dial, Everose gold bracelet, and a diamond-set bezel. At $37,900 USD, the watch is one of the more expensive ladies’ watches.

Overall, despite its iconic history and game-changing features, the Datejust remains one of the brand’s more affordable models.

The New Rolex Datejust Models

Rolex rolls out its latest Datejust models featuring a decorated dial, either with olive green, gold, or silver palm motif or a gold fluted one as compared to the plain-colored dials from previous models. The fluted motif took inspiration from the fluted bezels that earlier Rolex models had, becoming one of the brand’s trademark designs. All new models come in 36mm and 31mm, although the 31mm model only has a bright blue bezel instead of a decorated one. 

Rolex Datejust — Is it a good investment?

Like all Rolex watches, a Rolex Datejust makes a good investment. Over time, it would hold its value, thanks to its quality and the value of the Rolex brand itself. The model is still produced and remains to be one of the top choices among enthusiasts. Vintage Datejust watches are also a good investment as there is a growing appreciation for older watches. With these factors considered, it’s safe to say that a Rolex Datejust is a good investment in the long run.

History of the Rolex Datejust: An Iconic Anniversary Watch

To celebrate its 40th anniversary in the horology industry, Rolex debuted the Datejust, a certified self-winding chronometer. The first Datejust, with a reference number of 4467, was a gold Rolex watch made of 18K yellow gold and had a fluted bezel that resembled the edge of a coin. Although it didn’t have Datejust on its dial, it did however have a Jubilee bracelet, a five-piece link metal bracelet made for the occasion. For an anniversary watch, it was definitely one to remember as it had a date display on the 3 o’clock mark which automatically changed to the next day. Since then, the Datejust became a staple in Rolex’s catalog and went on to being a modern classic.

The first Datejust models took a while for the date to change, but was in 1955 when Rolex introduced an instantaneous mechanism that resulted in the date changing at midnight. The Cyclops lens was also added to the Datejust in the same year.

Over the years, Rolex would introduce different calibers to improve the quality of the Datejust watch. Today, the Datejust is available in 28mm, 31mm, 34mm, 36mm, or 41mm and comes in either full stainless steel, solid gold, or a two-tone gold and stainless steel case and bracelet.

The Datejust would eventually become one of the brand’s oldest models that are still in production to this day. In addition, several public figures and influential people would sport this iconic timepiece. Among the notable figures to wear a Datejust include Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King Jr., Roger Federer, Michael Jordan, and Joe Biden. 

Rolex Datejust's High-Caliber Movements

Rolex powers its Datejust watches with only the best in-house calibers. For the longest time, the Caliber 3135 powered most Datejust watches until the introduction of the Caliber 3235 movement. The 3235 offers improvements in terms of precision and shock resistance along with a 70-hour power reserve. Moreover, this new movement is also resistant to magnetic interference as it is made of a combination of nickel and phosphorus. Aside from the Caliber 3235, other Rolex watches are powered by a 2236 movement.

How much is a vintage Rolex Datejust?

The first Rolex Datejust was available in 18K yellow gold and had a Jubilee bracelet. Earlier models of the Datejust didn’t include the Cyclops lens, but the feature was added in the 1950s. Because of the history behind a Rolex Datejust, you can find vintage Rolex Datejust watches on the market. 

So how much is a Rolex Datejust vintage watch? Depending on the year they were made, a vintage Datejust can cost you from $4,000 USD to six times the amount. Those made from the 70s to the 80s cost around $4,000 to $7,000, without a doubt the most affordable pieces. On the other hand, earlier timepieces from the 40s until the late 60s came at a higher price tag at $9,000 USD or more.

Five Reasons to Buy a Rolex Datejust  

As one of the most iconic dress watches of all time, buying a Datejust watch should be on every watch enthusiast’s wishlist. But if you’re looking for your first luxury watch splurge, here are reasons to buy a Datejust.

1. Its History and Heritage

At its launch in 1945, the Datejust became the first wristwatch whose date changes instinctively at midnight. Along with the Jubilee bracelet, it became a classic favorite.

2. Timeless Design

Much of the design from the first and vintage Rolex Datejust watches remain: the Jubilee bracelet, Cyclops lens, and two-tone metal combinations.

3. Various Styles

Along with its unique features, the Rolex Datejust has different styles that cater to both young professionals and seasoned watch experts. Its sizes vary from 28 to 41mm and come in different dial colors and textures.

4. No Issues With Availability

Since there are plenty of design options for the Datejust, these watches are always available. 

5. Water Resistance

Not only are Datejust watches stylish and elegant, but they are also functional as they are water-resistant. Most Datejust models have a water resistance of up to 100 meters.

Famous Patrons of the Rolex Datejust Watch

Since it was launched in 1945, the Rolex Datejust has been one of the most popular and well-loved collections from Rolex. Here’s a list of notable figures who owned or who were spotted wearing a Rolex Datejust.

Ronald Reagan

US President Ronald Reagan was known for sporting watches at every public appearance, but he was one of the last American presidents who wore a Rolex. His Datejust watch was made from stainless steel and a white gold and silver dial on a Jubilee bracelet. 

Winston Churchill

Sir Winston Churchill was among the world leaders who donned a Datejust watch for men. In 1947, Hans Wilsdorf selected Churchill to receive the 100,000th certified chronometer produced by the Swiss luxury watchmaker. The Datejust Churchill received was an 18K gold Oyster Perpetual Datejust. His watch also had a fluted bezel, Jubilee bracelet, a white dial, and his coat of arms engraved on the back.

Roger Federer

As one of Rolex’s brand ambassadors, Roger Federer has been photographed wearing a silver, steel, or gold Rolex watch on and off the court. In his Wimbledon match in 2009, he sported a Datejust II with a silver dial and blue Arabic numerals. Years later in the 2017 Wimbledon final, he sported a Rolex Datejust in steel and yellow gold.

Jennifer Aniston

Jennifer Aniston rose to fame in the ‘90s as a style icon and was also one of the few female celebrities who wore men’s watches, particularly a Rolex watch. She was also seen a couple of times wearing a Lady Datejust 115200 made with stainless steel and a white dial. 

Daniel Craig

Before he took the role of James Bond in Skyfall, English actor Daniel Craig already had an impressive collection of watches that could rival Bond’s. In Layer Cake, the actor wore a sleek Rolex Datejust with a black dial and fluted bezel. 

Rolex Datejust: Classic Luxury on your Wrist

Both historic and stylish, the Rolex Datejust watch is a modern classic. While the Rolex Daytona, Rolex Submariner, and Rolex Yacht-Master cater to racecar drivers, divers, and yacht racers, respectively, the Datejust makes a perfect choice for everyday use.