Rolex Lady-Datejust 26

The Classic Women’s Rolex

The Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 is one of the most iconic women’s luxury watches ever made. Elegant, refined, and instantly recognizable, the 26 mm Lady-Datejust represents the classic size that defined generations of Rolex women’s watches.

Rolex introduced the Lady-Datejust in 1957 as the women’s version of the Datejust. It carried the same signature design elements that made the Datejust famous: the Oyster case, automatic movement, date window, Cyclops lens, and timeless Rolex styling, all in a smaller size designed for a more delicate wrist.

Today, the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 is discontinued, making it especially popular in the pre-owned and collector market. Buyers love it for its classic proportions, wide variety of dial options, precious metal combinations, diamond details, and everyday elegance.

At ECI Jewelers, we offer authentic Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 watches in a variety of references, metals, dial styles, bezels, and bracelet configurations. Every watch is carefully authenticated and inspected by our in-house experts. All Rolex watches from ECI Jewelers come with the original Rolex box. If a watch is listed as a complete set, it also includes the original Rolex papers.

Why the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 Is So Popular

The Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 is popular because it combines classic Rolex craftsmanship with a feminine and timeless design. Its smaller case size makes it elegant and easy to wear, while its wide range of configurations allows buyers to choose a watch that feels personal.

Collectors and buyers love the Lady-Datejust 26 because it offers:

• A classic 26 mm Rolex case size

• Timeless women’s Rolex styling

• Date window with Cyclops magnification

• Automatic mechanical movement

• Stainless steel, two-tone, yellow gold, white gold, and diamond options

• Jubilee, Oyster, and select President bracelet configurations

• A wide selection of dials, including champagne, silver, white, black, mother-of-pearl, Roman numeral, and diamond dials

• Strong brand recognition

• Discontinued status and long-term collector appeal

The Lady-Datejust 26 is a strong choice for customers who want a smaller, elegant Rolex with classic proportions.

Current Production Status

The Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 is no longer in current production. Rolex now produces the Lady-Datejust in larger modern sizes, including 28 mm, while the classic 26 mm models remain available through the pre-owned market.

Because the 26 mm size is discontinued, condition, reference number, dial style, bracelet condition, box, papers, and originality can all affect value.

Popular Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 References

The Lady-Datejust 26 has been produced in many references over the years. Each reference may vary by metal, bezel, movement generation, bracelet, and dial options.

Rolex Lady-Datejust 69173

The Rolex 69173 is one of the most recognizable Lady-Datejust 26 references. It features a two-tone Yellow Rolesor design, combining stainless steel with 18K yellow gold. Many examples are paired with champagne dials, diamond dials, Roman numeral dials, fluted bezels, and Jubilee bracelets.

The 69173 is popular with buyers who want a classic vintage-inspired two-tone Rolex.

Rolex Lady-Datejust 69174

The Rolex 69174 is a white Rolesor Lady-Datejust 26, typically featuring stainless steel with an 18K white gold fluted bezel. It offers a more understated look than yellow two-tone models while still keeping the traditional fluted Rolex appearance.

This reference is a strong choice for buyers who want a classic Lady-Datejust with silver-tone versatility.

Rolex Lady-Datejust 79173

The Rolex 79173 is a later two-tone Yellow Rolesor Lady-Datejust 26. It continues the classic stainless steel and yellow gold look but with a newer-generation feel compared to earlier 69XXX references.

Many 79173 models include Jubilee bracelets, fluted bezels, champagne dials, white dials, black dials, Roman numerals, or diamond markers.

Rolex Lady-Datejust 79174

The Rolex 79174 is a white Rolesor Lady-Datejust 26 with a stainless steel case and 18K white gold fluted bezel. It is popular for its clean, refined look and works well as an everyday women’s Rolex.

This reference is often found with silver, white, black, blue, mother-of-pearl, Roman numeral, or diamond dials.

Rolex Lady-Datejust 179173

The Rolex 179173 is a later-generation two-tone Yellow Rolesor Lady-Datejust 26. It combines stainless steel and 18K yellow gold with a refined case and bracelet feel. This reference is often seen with champagne, ivory, white, black, mother-of-pearl, Roman numeral, anniversary, or diamond dials.

It is a popular choice for buyers who want a classic two-tone Lady-Datejust with a more modern build.

Rolex Lady-Datejust 179174

The Rolex 179174 is a white Rolesor Lady-Datejust 26 with a stainless steel case and 18K white gold fluted bezel. It offers a refined and elegant appearance while maintaining the classic 26 mm Lady-Datejust size.

This reference is especially popular with silver, white, blue, mother-of-pearl, Roman numeral, and diamond dial configurations.

Rolex Lady-Datejust 179178

The Rolex 179178 is an 18K yellow gold Lady-Datejust 26. It offers a more luxurious full-gold look and may be found with President bracelet, diamond dials, or factory gem-set details depending on the configuration.

Rolex Lady-Datejust 179179

The Rolex 179179 is an 18K white gold Lady-Datejust 26. It offers precious metal luxury in a refined and elegant tone, making it ideal for buyers who prefer a more understated full-gold appearance.

Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 Specifications

The Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 was designed to bring the classic Datejust identity into a smaller, elegant case size.

Model: Rolex Lady-Datejust
Classic Case Size: 26 mm
Case: Rolex Oyster case
Crystal: Sapphire crystal on later references, acrylic crystal on select older vintage models
Date Display: Date window with Cyclops magnification
Water Resistance: Varies by age and condition, with many later Oyster case models originally rated to 100 meters / 330 feet
Bracelet Options: Jubilee, Oyster, and select President bracelet configurations
Bezel Options: Smooth, fluted, diamond-set, or gem-set depending on reference
Dial Options: Champagne, silver, white, black, blue, mother-of-pearl, Roman numeral, diamond, and specialty dials
Movement: Automatic Rolex mechanical movements, including calibres such as 2135 and 2235 depending on reference and generation

Materials

The Lady-Datejust 26 was produced in a wide variety of metal combinations.

Material options may include:

• Stainless steel

• Yellow Rolesor, combining stainless steel and 18K yellow gold

• White Rolesor, combining stainless steel with an 18K white gold bezel

• 18K yellow gold

• 18K white gold

• 18K Everose or rose gold configurations depending on era

• Factory diamond-set bezels

• Factory diamond-marker dials

Two-tone yellow Rolesor is one of the most recognizable Lady-Datejust looks. White Rolesor feels more understated and modern. Full gold and diamond models offer a more elevated jewelry-inspired appearance.

Movement

The Lady-Datejust 26 used Rolex automatic mechanical movements that vary by generation.

Older references such as the 69173 and 69174 are commonly associated with the Rolex calibre 2135. Later references such as the 79173, 79174, 179173, and 179174 are commonly associated with the Rolex calibre 2235.

Both movement families are respected for their reliability and compact engineering. As with any pre-owned Rolex, movement condition and service history are important factors when buying.

Dial Options

One of the biggest reasons buyers love the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 is the wide variety of dial choices.

Popular dial options include:

• Champagne dial

• Silver dial

• White dial

• Black dial

• Blue dial

• Ivory dial

• Mother-of-pearl dial

• Diamond marker dial

• Roman numeral dial

• Stick index dial

• Anniversary dial

• Floral dial

• Pyramid dial

• Specialty and factory-set dials

A champagne diamond dial on a two-tone Lady-Datejust feels classic and traditional. A mother-of-pearl dial with diamond markers feels more luxurious and jewelry-inspired. A silver or white Roman dial offers a clean and timeless look.

Bracelet Options

The bracelet plays a major role in the overall style of the Lady-Datejust 26.

Jubilee Bracelet

The Jubilee bracelet is one of the most classic bracelet choices for the Lady-Datejust. Its five-piece link design feels elegant, flexible, and comfortable on the wrist. It pairs especially well with fluted bezel models.

Oyster Bracelet

The Oyster bracelet gives the Lady-Datejust 26 a cleaner and slightly sportier appearance. Its three-piece link design feels simple, durable, and refined.

President Bracelet

Select precious metal Lady-Datejust 26 models may be found with President bracelets. This gives the watch a more elevated and jewelry-like appearance, especially in 18K gold or diamond configurations.

Fluted Bezel, Smooth Bezel, and Diamond Bezel

The bezel changes the personality of the Lady-Datejust 26.

Fluted Bezel

The fluted bezel is one of the most recognizable Rolex design features. On many Lady-Datejust references, the fluted bezel is made from gold, including yellow gold or white gold depending on the model.

Smooth Bezel

The smooth bezel gives the watch a cleaner and more understated appearance. It is ideal for buyers who prefer a simple, everyday look.

Diamond Bezel

Factory diamond-set bezels add brilliance and luxury. These models are popular with buyers who want the Lady-Datejust to feel more like fine jewelry.

Size and Fit

The 26 mm case is the classic Lady-Datejust size. It has a delicate and refined wrist presence, making it ideal for buyers who prefer smaller watches.

The Lady-Datejust 26 is especially popular for:

• Smaller wrists

• Classic women’s Rolex styling

• Dressy everyday wear

• Jewelry stacking

• Vintage-inspired looks

• Customers who prefer subtle luxury over larger modern case sizes

While modern tastes have shifted toward larger watch sizes, the 26 mm Lady-Datejust remains timeless for those who appreciate traditional proportions.

Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 Price

Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 prices vary widely based on reference, metal, dial, condition, bracelet, year, box, papers, and market demand.

Approximate pre-owned market ranges may include:

• Stainless steel Lady-Datejust 26 models: $3,500 to $6,500+

• Two-tone Lady-Datejust 26 models: $4,500 to $9,500+

• White Rolesor Lady-Datejust 26 models: $4,500 to $8,500+

• Mother-of-pearl or diamond dial models: $6,000 to $12,000+

• Full gold Lady-Datejust 26 models: $10,000 to $25,000+

• Factory diamond or rare configurations: Pricing can vary significantly

Prices change based on condition, availability, originality, and market demand. For the most accurate pricing, browse current ECI Jewelers inventory or contact our team directly.

Is the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 a Good Investment?

The Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 remains desirable because of its classic design, discontinued case size, and strong Rolex recognition. While larger modern sizes have become popular, the 26 mm Lady-Datejust continues to appeal to buyers who want a traditional women’s Rolex.

Factors that can affect value include:

• Reference number

• Metal type

• Dial style

• Diamond details

• Bracelet condition

• Production year

• Box and papers

• Service history

• Condition and originality

• Current market demand

No watch purchase is guaranteed to increase in value, but the Lady-Datejust 26 has lasting appeal because it represents one of the most classic women’s Rolex designs.

Is the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 Good for Daily Wear?

Yes. The Lady-Datejust 26 is an excellent daily watch for customers who prefer a smaller and more elegant Rolex. It is lightweight, refined, and easy to wear with jewelry, business attire, casual outfits, or formal looks.

Because many Lady-Datejust 26 watches are pre-owned, it is important to buy from a trusted jeweler and confirm that the watch has been inspected for authenticity and condition.

Why Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex Lady-Datejust 26?

Since the Lady-Datejust 26 is discontinued, the pre-owned market gives buyers access to a wide variety of references, dials, metals, and bracelet styles.

Pre-owned Lady-Datejust 26 watches may include vintage models, neo-vintage references, modern discontinued references, diamond dials, mother-of-pearl dials, two-tone designs, and full gold configurations.

At ECI Jewelers, every pre-owned Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 is inspected for authenticity, condition, and quality before being offered for sale.

Expert Opinion

The Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 is one of the most timeless women’s Rolex watches ever made. Its small case size, elegant proportions, automatic movement, and wide range of dial and metal options make it a true classic. Whether chosen in stainless steel, two-tone, white gold, yellow gold, or diamond-set form, the Lady-Datejust 26 remains a refined and meaningful luxury watch.

Why Choose ECI Jewelers

At ECI Jewelers, we offer a curated selection of Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 watches in a variety of references, metals, dial styles, bracelets, and bezel configurations. Every watch is thoroughly authenticated, inspected, and prepared to meet high standards of quality.

When you shop with ECI Jewelers, you receive:

• 100% authentic Rolex watches

• Original Rolex box included with every watch

• Original Rolex papers included when listed as a complete set

• Free insured shipping

• Financing options available

• Transparent pricing

• Expert guidance

• NYC Diamond District showroom service

• Help with buying, selling, trading, and sourcing Rolex watches

We started in New Jersey and have been serving clients from New York City since 2018.

Sell Your Rolex Lady-Datejust 26

If you are ready to sell or trade your Rolex Lady-Datejust 26, ECI Jewelers offers competitive market valuations and a seamless selling experience.

Our experts evaluate your watch based on current market demand, condition, reference number, metal type, dial, bracelet condition, year, box, papers, and overall desirability. Whether you are upgrading your collection or selling a watch you no longer wear, we make the process fast, transparent, and stress-free.

You can contact ECI Jewelers to receive an offer or visit our NYC showroom for an in-person evaluation.

Shop Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 Watches at ECI Jewelers

ECI Jewelers offers a curated selection of authentic Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 watches, including stainless steel, two-tone, white gold, yellow gold, diamond dial, mother-of-pearl dial, Roman numeral dial, Jubilee bracelet, Oyster bracelet, and President bracelet options depending on availability.

Whether you are searching for a classic everyday Rolex, a complete set Lady-Datejust, a diamond dial model, or a specific discontinued reference, our team can help you find the right watch.

Browse our Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 collection online or visit our NYC showroom to view select watches in person.

Visit Our NYC Showroom

ECI Jewelers is located in New York City’s Diamond District. Visit our showroom to view select Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 watches in person, compare references, and speak with our team before purchasing.

ECI Jewelers
37 W 47th St, Suite 1301
New York, NY 10036

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26?

The Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 is the classic 26 mm women’s Datejust model. It features a date window, Cyclops lens, automatic movement, and classic Rolex Oyster case design.

Is the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 discontinued?

Yes. The 26 mm Lady-Datejust is no longer in current production. Rolex now produces the Lady-Datejust in larger modern sizes, including 28 mm.

When was the Rolex Lady-Datejust introduced?

Rolex introduced the Lady-Datejust in 1957 as the women’s version of the Datejust.

What are popular Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 references?

Popular references include 69173, 69174, 79173, 79174, 179173, 179174, 179178, and 179179.

What movement is inside the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26?

The movement depends on the reference and generation. Older models such as 69173 and 69174 are commonly associated with calibre 2135, while later models such as 79173, 79174, 179173, and 179174 are commonly associated with calibre 2235.

Is the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 waterproof?

Many later Lady-Datejust 26 Oyster case models were originally rated to 100 meters / 330 feet. However, water resistance on pre-owned and vintage watches depends on age, condition, and service history.

Is the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 good for daily wear?

Yes. The Lady-Datejust 26 is a strong daily watch for customers who prefer a smaller, elegant Rolex with timeless styling.

What is the most classic Rolex Lady-Datejust 26?

One of the most classic configurations is a two-tone Yellow Rolesor Lady-Datejust 26 with a champagne dial, fluted bezel, and Jubilee bracelet.

What is the difference between 69173 and 79173?

Both are two-tone Yellow Rolesor Lady-Datejust 26 references. The 79173 is a later-generation model and is commonly associated with the calibre 2235, while the 69173 is an earlier reference commonly associated with calibre 2135.

What is the difference between 179173 and 179174?

The 179173 is a two-tone Yellow Rolesor Lady-Datejust 26, combining stainless steel and 18K yellow gold. The 179174 is a white Rolesor model with a stainless steel case and 18K white gold fluted bezel.

How much does a Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 cost?

Pricing depends on reference, condition, metal, dial, bracelet, box, papers, and market demand. Pre-owned Lady-Datejust 26 watches can range from more accessible stainless steel models to higher-value diamond, mother-of-pearl, and full gold configurations.

Do your Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 watches come with the original box?

Yes. All Rolex watches sold by ECI Jewelers come with the original Rolex box. If the watch is listed as a complete set, it also includes the original Rolex papers.

Do you offer free insured shipping?

Yes. ECI Jewelers offers free insured shipping on eligible online orders.

Can I finance a Rolex Lady-Datejust 26?

Yes. Financing options are available for qualified customers at checkout.

Can I sell or trade my Rolex Lady-Datejust 26?

Yes. ECI Jewelers buys and accepts trades on select Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 watches. Contact our team for a market-based evaluation.