Rolex Datejust

The Timeless Everyday Rolex

The Rolex Datejust is one of the most iconic luxury watches ever created. First introduced in 1945, the Datejust became known for its elegant design, practical date display, automatic movement, and timeless everyday wearability.

Today, the Rolex Datejust remains one of the most versatile watches in the Rolex collection. It is available in multiple sizes, metals, dial colors, bezel styles, and bracelet options, making it a favorite for first-time Rolex buyers, collectors, gift shoppers, and anyone looking for a watch that works for almost every occasion.

At ECI Jewelers, we offer authentic Rolex Datejust watches in a variety of references, including Datejust 31, Datejust 36, Datejust 41, vintage Datejust models, discontinued references, two-tone models, diamond dial styles, and complete set watches. Every Rolex 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 Datejust Is So Popular

The Rolex Datejust is popular because it offers the perfect balance of luxury, function, and everyday style. It is dressy enough for formal occasions but durable enough for daily wear.

Collectors and buyers love the Datejust because it offers:

• Classic Rolex design
• Instantaneous date display with Cyclops lens
• Multiple case sizes
• Oystersteel, Rolesor, gold, and diamond configurations
• Smooth, fluted, diamond-set, and gem-set bezel options
• Oyster, Jubilee, and select President bracelet styles
• Wide dial selection, including blue, black, silver, champagne, Wimbledon, mother-of-pearl, Roman numeral, and diamond dials
• Strong everyday wearability
• Excellent first Rolex appeal
• Long-term collector demand

The Datejust is one of the best Rolex watches for someone who wants one luxury timepiece that can be worn casually, professionally, and formally.

Rolex Datejust History

The Rolex Datejust was introduced in 1945 to celebrate the brand’s 40th anniversary. It became famous as one of the first automatic wristwatches to feature a date window that changed automatically at midnight.

The Datejust also helped popularize several design elements now closely associated with Rolex, including the Cyclops lens over the date and the Jubilee bracelet. Over time, the model became one of the most recognizable and successful Rolex collections.

From vintage acrylic crystal references to modern sapphire crystal models with updated movements, the Datejust has remained a symbol of timeless Rolex style.

Rolex Datejust Sizes

The modern Rolex Datejust collection is available in 31 mm, 36 mm, and 41 mm sizes.

Rolex Datejust 31

The Datejust 31 is a refined mid-size option that works beautifully for women who want more wrist presence than a Lady-Datejust 28 but something smaller than a Datejust 36. It is elegant, modern, and easy to wear daily.

Popular Datejust 31 references include:

• 278240: Oystersteel Datejust 31 with smooth bezel
• 278274: White Rolesor Datejust 31 with white gold fluted bezel
• 278273: Yellow Rolesor Datejust 31
• 278271: Everose Rolesor Datejust 31
• 278383RBR: Yellow Rolesor Datejust 31 with diamond bezel
• 278384RBR: White Rolesor Datejust 31 with diamond bezel
• 278381RBR: Everose Rolesor Datejust 31 with diamond bezel

Rolex Datejust 36

The Datejust 36 is the classic Datejust size. It is one of the most balanced Rolex case sizes and is worn by both men and women. The 36 mm size is ideal for buyers who want traditional Rolex proportions with modern performance.

Popular Datejust 36 references include:

• 126200: Oystersteel Datejust 36 with smooth bezel
• 126234: White Rolesor Datejust 36 with white gold fluted bezel
• 126233: Yellow Rolesor Datejust 36 with yellow gold fluted bezel
• 126231: Everose Rolesor Datejust 36
• 126284RBR: White Rolesor Datejust 36 with diamond bezel
• 126283RBR: Yellow Rolesor Datejust 36 with diamond bezel
• 126281RBR: Everose Rolesor Datejust 36 with diamond bezel

Rolex Datejust 41

The Datejust 41 is the modern larger Datejust size. It offers a stronger wrist presence while keeping the elegance and versatility that define the collection. This size is especially popular with buyers who want a current Rolex with a bold but refined look.

Popular Datejust 41 references include:

• 126300: Oystersteel Datejust 41 with smooth bezel
• 126334: White Rolesor Datejust 41 with white gold fluted bezel
• 126303: Yellow Rolesor Datejust 41 with smooth bezel
• 126333: Yellow Rolesor Datejust 41 with fluted bezel
• 126301: Everose Rolesor Datejust 41 with smooth bezel
• 126331: Everose Rolesor Datejust 41 with fluted bezel

Discontinued Rolex Datejust References

Discontinued Rolex Datejust references remain popular because they offer vintage charm, discontinued dial options, older case shapes, and strong collector appeal.

Discontinued Datejust 41 and Datejust II References

• 116300: Discontinued Datejust II in Oystersteel with smooth bezel
• 116334: Discontinued Datejust II with white gold fluted bezel
• 116333: Discontinued yellow Rolesor Datejust II with fluted bezel

The Datejust II was the earlier 41 mm Datejust generation. It has a bolder case profile than the current Datejust 41.

Discontinued Datejust 36 References

• 116200: Discontinued Oystersteel Datejust 36
• 116234: Discontinued white Rolesor Datejust 36
• 116233: Discontinued yellow Rolesor Datejust 36
• 16200: Neo-vintage Oystersteel Datejust 36
• 16234: Neo-vintage white Rolesor Datejust 36
• 16233: Neo-vintage yellow Rolesor Datejust 36
• 16013: Vintage yellow Rolesor Datejust 36
• 16014: Vintage white Rolesor Datejust 36
• 16030: Vintage Oystersteel Datejust 36
• 1601: Vintage Datejust 36 with fluted bezel
• 1603: Vintage Datejust 36 with engine-turned bezel

Discontinued Datejust 31 References

• 178240: Discontinued Oystersteel Datejust 31
• 178274: Discontinued white Rolesor Datejust 31
• 178273: Discontinued yellow Rolesor Datejust 31
• 178271: Discontinued Everose Rolesor Datejust 31
• 68273: Older two-tone mid-size Datejust
• 68274: Older white Rolesor mid-size Datejust
• 78273: Later two-tone mid-size Datejust
• 78274: Later white Rolesor mid-size Datejust

These discontinued references can be excellent options for buyers who want a specific look, dial, bracelet, or price point that may no longer be available in current production.

Rolex Datejust Specifications

The Datejust combines classic styling with reliable Rolex movement technology. Specifications vary by size, reference, and production era, but modern models share several important features.

Model: Rolex Datejust
Current Sizes: 31 mm, 36 mm, and 41 mm
Case: Rolex Oyster case
Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal on modern models
Date Display: Instantaneous date with Cyclops magnification
Water Resistance: 100 meters / 330 feet on modern models
Crown: Twinlock screw-down crown
Movements: Calibre 2236 on current Datejust 31, calibre 3235 on current Datejust 36 and Datejust 41
Power Reserve: Approximately 55 hours on calibre 2236, approximately 70 hours on calibre 3235
Bracelet Options: Oyster, Jubilee, and select President configurations depending on reference
Bezel Options: Smooth, fluted, diamond-set, or gem-set depending on reference
Dial Options: Black, white, silver, blue, green, champagne, chocolate, sundust, Wimbledon, mother-of-pearl, diamond, Roman numeral, baton, motif, and specialty dials depending on availability

Rolex Datejust Materials

The Rolex Datejust is available in a wide range of materials and metal combinations.

Popular Datejust materials include:

• Oystersteel
• White Rolesor, combining Oystersteel with an 18K white gold bezel
• Yellow Rolesor, combining Oystersteel and 18K yellow gold
• Everose Rolesor, combining Oystersteel and 18K Everose gold
• 18K yellow gold
• 18K white gold
• 18K Everose gold
• Factory diamond-set bezels
• Factory diamond-marker dials
• Mother-of-pearl and specialty dials

Oystersteel Datejust models feel clean and versatile. White Rolesor models offer a classic Rolex look with a bright silver-tone finish. Yellow Rolesor gives the Datejust its traditional two-tone appearance. Everose Rolesor offers a warm and modern rose gold look.

Rolex Datejust Movements

Modern Rolex Datejust watches use automatic mechanical movements developed and manufactured by Rolex.

The Datejust 31 uses the Rolex calibre 2236. This movement offers approximately 55 hours of power reserve and is designed for reliable performance in a smaller case size.

The Datejust 36 and Datejust 41 use the Rolex calibre 3235. This movement offers approximately 70 hours of power reserve and includes Rolex movement technology designed for precision, reliability, and everyday wear.

Older Datejust references may use previous-generation movements such as calibre 3135, calibre 3035, or earlier automatic Rolex movements depending on the production era.

Popular Rolex Datejust Dials

One of the biggest reasons buyers love the Datejust is the wide range of dial options. The dial can completely change the personality of the watch.

Popular Datejust dial options include:

• Blue dial
• Black dial
• White dial
• Silver dial
• Champagne dial
• Wimbledon dial
• Slate dial
• Chocolate dial
• Sundust dial
• Mint green dial
• Mother-of-pearl dial
• Diamond dial
• Roman numeral dial
• Baton marker dial
• Floral motif dial
• Fluted motif dial
• Palm motif dial
• Stone and specialty dials

The blue dial Datejust is popular for a modern everyday look. The Wimbledon dial is loved for its distinctive green Roman numerals. The champagne dial is a classic choice on two-tone yellow Rolesor models. Mother-of-pearl and diamond dials offer a more jewelry-inspired appearance.

Oyster Bracelet vs. Jubilee Bracelet

The bracelet changes the entire personality of a Rolex Datejust.

Oyster Bracelet

The Oyster bracelet has a three-piece link design. It gives the Datejust a cleaner, sportier, and more modern look. It is a strong choice for buyers who want a Datejust that feels more casual and everyday.

Jubilee Bracelet

The Jubilee bracelet has a five-piece link design and was originally created for the Datejust. It feels dressier, more flexible, and more traditional. It pairs especially well with fluted bezel Datejust models.

President Bracelet

Select precious metal Datejust models may feature the President bracelet. This gives the watch a more luxurious and jewelry-like look, especially on full gold or diamond-set models.

Smooth Bezel vs. Fluted Bezel vs. Diamond Bezel

The bezel is one of the most important design choices on a Rolex Datejust.

Smooth Bezel

The smooth bezel gives the Datejust a clean and understated look. It is ideal for buyers who want a modern everyday Rolex without too much shine.

Fluted Bezel

The fluted bezel is one of Rolex’s most recognizable design details. On modern Datejust models, the fluted bezel is made from gold. It gives the watch a more classic and luxurious appearance.

Diamond Bezel

Factory diamond-set bezels add brilliance and a fine jewelry feel. These Datejust models are popular with buyers who want a more elevated and dressy Rolex.

Rolex Datejust Price

Rolex Datejust prices vary depending on size, reference, material, dial, bezel, bracelet, year, condition, box, papers, and market demand.

Approximate pre-owned market ranges may include:

• Datejust 31 models: $5,000 to $18,000+
• Datejust 36 models: $5,500 to $20,000+
• Datejust 41 models: $8,000 to $25,000+
• Vintage Datejust models: $3,500 to $12,000+
• Two-tone Datejust models: $6,000 to $18,000+
• Diamond dial or diamond bezel models: $9,000 to $30,000+
• Full gold or rare configurations: Pricing can vary significantly

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

Is the Rolex Datejust a Good Investment?

The Rolex Datejust is one of the most stable and recognizable Rolex collections. While no watch purchase is guaranteed to increase in value, the Datejust has strong long-term demand because it is versatile, timeless, and available in many desirable configurations.

Factors that can affect Datejust value include:

• Reference number
• Case size
• Metal type
• Dial color and rarity
• Bracelet type
• Bezel style
• Condition
• Production year
• Box and papers
• Service history
• Current market demand

Complete sets with the original Rolex box and papers are generally more desirable among collectors.

Is the Rolex Datejust a Good First Rolex?

Yes. The Rolex Datejust is one of the best first Rolex watches because it is timeless, practical, and easy to wear. It offers the prestige of Rolex without being limited to one specific lifestyle.

The Datejust is a strong first Rolex for buyers who want:

• A classic Rolex design
• A practical date function
• Multiple size options
• A watch that works with casual and formal outfits
• Strong brand recognition
• Many dial, bracelet, and bezel choices
• Long-term wearability

For many buyers, the Datejust is the perfect balance between a dress watch and an everyday luxury watch.

Why Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex Datejust?

Buying a pre-owned Rolex Datejust gives customers access to a wider range of references, dials, bracelets, discontinued styles, complete sets, and price points.

Pre-owned Datejust watches may include vintage models, neo-vintage references, modern discontinued models, current-production models, diamond dials, mother-of-pearl dials, two-tone styles, full-gold references, and rare configurations.

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

Expert Opinion

The Rolex Datejust is one of the most complete luxury watches ever made. It has history, daily functionality, timeless design, and enough variety to suit almost any buyer. Whether you choose a Datejust 31, Datejust 36, Datejust 41, two-tone Rolesor model, fluted bezel, Jubilee bracelet, blue dial, Wimbledon dial, or diamond configuration, the Datejust remains one of the strongest everyday Rolex choices.

Why Choose ECI Jewelers

At ECI Jewelers, we offer a curated selection of Rolex Datejust watches in a variety of sizes, 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 Datejust

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

Our experts evaluate your watch based on current market demand, condition, reference number, size, metal type, dial, bracelet condition, bezel style, 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 Datejust Watches at ECI Jewelers

ECI Jewelers offers a curated selection of authentic Rolex Datejust watches, including Datejust 31, Datejust 36, Datejust 41, Oystersteel, white Rolesor, yellow Rolesor, Everose Rolesor, blue dial, Wimbledon dial, champagne dial, diamond dial, mother-of-pearl dial, fluted bezel, smooth bezel, Jubilee bracelet, and Oyster bracelet styles depending on availability.

Whether you are searching for a classic everyday Rolex, a complete set Datejust, a two-tone model, or a specific high-demand dial, our team can help you find the right watch.

Browse our Rolex Datejust 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 Datejust 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 Datejust?

The Rolex Datejust is a classic Rolex watch known for its date window, Cyclops lens, automatic movement, Oyster case, and wide range of dial, bezel, bracelet, and metal options.

When was the Rolex Datejust introduced?

The Rolex Datejust was introduced in 1945.

What sizes does the Rolex Datejust come in?

Current Rolex Datejust models are available in 31 mm, 36 mm, and 41 mm sizes.

What movement is inside the Rolex Datejust?

Current Datejust 31 models use calibre 2236. Current Datejust 36 and Datejust 41 models use calibre 3235.

Is the Rolex Datejust waterproof?

Modern Rolex Datejust models are water resistant to 100 meters / 330 feet.

What are popular Rolex Datejust references?

Popular references include 278240, 278274, 278273, 126200, 126234, 126233, 126300, 126334, 126333, 116234, 16234, 16233, 1601, and 1603.

What is the difference between Datejust 31, Datejust 36, and Datejust 41?

The Datejust 31 is a refined mid-size option, the Datejust 36 is the classic unisex size, and the Datejust 41 offers a larger modern wrist presence.

What is the most classic Rolex Datejust?

One of the most classic Datejust configurations is a 36 mm model with a fluted bezel, Jubilee bracelet, and champagne, silver, or black dial. Two-tone yellow Rolesor models are also highly recognizable.

What is the difference between Oyster and Jubilee bracelet?

The Oyster bracelet has a sportier three-piece link design, while the Jubilee bracelet has a dressier five-piece link design. Both are popular on the Datejust.

What is the difference between smooth and fluted bezel?

A smooth bezel gives the Datejust a cleaner and more modern look. A fluted bezel gives the watch a more traditional and luxurious Rolex appearance.

Is the Rolex Datejust good for daily wear?

Yes. The Datejust is one of the best daily wear Rolex watches because it is durable, comfortable, practical, and versatile.

Is the Rolex Datejust a good first Rolex?

Yes. The Datejust is one of the best first Rolex watches because it is timeless, easy to wear, and available in many sizes and styles.

How much does a Rolex Datejust cost?

Pricing depends on size, reference, condition, metal, dial, bracelet, bezel, box, papers, and market demand. Pre-owned Datejust watches can range from more accessible vintage models to higher-value diamond, two-tone, and rare dial configurations.

Do your Rolex Datejust 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 Datejust?

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

Can I sell or trade my Rolex Datejust?

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