Rolex Datejust: A Classic Timepiece for Every Luxury Watch-Lover

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The year 1945 marked the 40 years of existence of the world-renowned Swiss watchmaker Rolex. The celebration went with a bang because it was also the time when the company launched its classic Datejust line. With its self-winding caliber (certified chronometer) and water-resistance Oyster case, this timepiece easily became one of Rolex’s all-time favorites.

For more information about the famed history of the Rolex Datejust, take some time to read this blog post.

The popularity of Rolex Datejust

The Rolex Datejust is among the oldest models in the Rolex catalog, and it still takes the fancy of many watch enthusiasts today.

People in the entertainment industry, sports, and politics love the Rolex Datejust. Dwight D. Eisenhower – the 34th President of the United States – was seen on various special occasions wearing this incredible wristwatch. Other illustrious men who wore the Datejust timepiece include Winston Churchill, Bono, and Roger Federer.

Early Models of the Datejust Line

Rolex Datejust reference 4467 was the first timepiece of this famed timepiece line. It came with a Jubilee bracelet that matches the yellow gold-tone in the case and bezel. However, it had no Cyclops lens that could magnify the date display by 2.5x. The magnifying lens only came out in the mid-50s Datejust models.

The dial of the first Rolex Datejust had a cream color with gold hour indicators. The date display with its black and red numbers representing odd and even days, respectively – was located at the 3 o’clock position. Then, you can see the “Rolex Oyster Perpetual” inscribed below the 12 o’clock position.

Models, such as the 5030 and 5031, only later had the “Datejust” inscribed on their dials, although appearing sporadically. It started becoming a regular feature when versions 6074 and 6075 came out.

The Later Versions

While many versions came out through the years (sporting different sizes, color combinations, materials, and calibers), the Rolex Datejust stays true to its roots. However, every watch lover has a variety of options when it comes to the design of his/her Datejust timepiece.

Rolesor

For those who want simple elegance, the combination of stainless steel and 18k gold model known as “Rolesor” Datejust is perfect for you. It has the latest version that features an Oyster bracelet with middle links and a fluted bezel made of yellow gold, while the casing and outer links of the bracelet are made of stainless steel.

The silver sunburst-patterned watch face sports gold Roman numerals that really look spectacular. Aside from Roman numerals, some versions feature diamond and baton indices.

Rolex Datejust Ref. 278285RBR

For the ladies, there are also Rolex Datejust watches for you. Take, for instance, the stylish Datejust reference 278285RBR. This wristwatch has a 31mm case and bracelet made of Everose gold (rose gold alloy). Then, to make the timepiece tantalizing to the eyes, the dial and bezel are adorned with diamonds.

Datejust II

In 2009, Rolex released a larger version of the Datejust line called Datejust II. From the original 36mm case, the new model features a 41mm case. However, there are design elements of the latest model that resemble the original version.

Besides the new case, the Rolex Datejust II also comes with a new watch movement – the Caliber 3136 – which is a chronometer-certified by the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute. It has a power reserve of 48 hours and a bigger base plate than the early Datejust model.

Later, the Datejust II evolves into various versions, featuring different materials and dial options. For example, there’s the Datejust II reference 116300 that sports a polished stainless steel bezel. The model reference 116333, a two-tone Datejust II with a fluted bezel covered with 18k gold, was also released by the Swiss watch manufacturer.

Datejust 41

The Swiss watchmaker released Datejust 41 in 2016. It has the same case size as the Datejust II, but this one comes with a Caliber 3235 and an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. For this timepiece, you can choose two-tone versions, featuring a stainless steel material combined with white, rose, or yellow gold. Then, the bezel can either be polished or fluted.

Takeaway

The Datejust watch line by Rolex has spectacular timepieces that can make every watch enthusiast go wow. When it comes to the material, design, and caliber used on each Datejust watch, it’s not an overrated thing to say that it’s among the best watch lines (if not the best) that the Swiss watchmaker ever released.

So, if you’re planning to purchase a timepiece from Rolex, you should consider the classic Datejust watches!