In production since 1945 and the first self-winding chronometer to change its own date. Offered in more combinations than any other Rolex, which is exactly why it works as a one-watch collection.
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Available Watches
History of the Datejust
1945
The first of its kind
Launched for Rolex's fortieth anniversary as the first self-winding chronometer wristwatch with an automatically changing date, on the newly designed Jubilee bracelet.
1953
The cyclops
Rolex adds the magnifying lens over the date window — reportedly at the request of Hans Wilsdorf's wife, who found the date hard to read.
1977
Quickset
Caliber 3035 allows the date to be advanced independently of the hands, ending the tedium of winding through 24 hours to correct it.
1988
Sapphire and the five-digit era
The 162xx series brings sapphire crystals and refined movements, and becomes the most produced Datejust generation.
2009
Datejust II
A 41 mm version arrives with heavy lugs. It is not universally loved, and is quietly superseded.
2016
The Datejust 41
Slimmer lugs and caliber 3235 correct the proportions of the 41 mm, giving the line its modern shape.
Datejust References
The references we see most often, and what separates them. Highlighted rows are references we currently have in the case.
| Reference | Produced | Case | Bezel | Caliber | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 126300 | 2016–present | 41 mm | Smooth | 3235 | The modern 41 mm in steel with a smooth bezel. Clean, contemporary, and the easiest Datejust to wear with anything. |
| 126334In stock | 2016–present | 41 mm | Fluted | 3235 | Same case with a white gold fluted bezel. The Wimbledon dial version is the most requested configuration in the family. |
| 278274In stock | 2018–present | 31 mm | Fluted | 2236 | The mid-size, with a Syloxi hairspring. Sits between the 28 and 36 and suits a wide range of wrists. |
| 126234 | 2018–present | 36 mm | Fluted | 3235 | The classic 36 mm proportion updated with the current movement. Arguably the definitive Datejust size. |
| 116234 | 2005–2018 | 36 mm | Fluted | 3135 | The previous 36 mm generation. Abundant, well understood, and a strong value entry into the model. |
| 116300 | 2009–2016 | 41 mm | Smooth | 3136 | The Datejust II. Heavier lugs than the current 41, and priced below it as a result. |
Sub-models
Before You Buy a Datejust
Size matters more than reference number
A 36 and a 41 are different watches with different buyers. Try both before deciding — the numbers understate how differently they wear.
Fluted bezels are white gold, not steel
On steel Datejusts the fluted bezel is solid white gold. A dulled or damaged one is expensive to replace, so inspect the flutes closely.
Jubilee stretch is the common fault
The five-link Jubilee is comfortable but develops play with age. Some is normal on older pieces; a bracelet that rattles has real wear and affects value.
Dial variety cuts both ways
The enormous dial catalogue means unusual combinations exist — and so do redials. On older references, verify the dial is factory-correct for that reference and year.
Check the cyclops and date alignment
The date should sit centred under the lens and snap over cleanly at midnight. Misalignment or a sluggish change points to service work.
Every watch we sell is inspected in-house in Las Vegas before it is listed. If you want a second opinion on a piece you are considering elsewhere, call us — we will tell you straight.
Specifications
Case diameter28, 31, 36 or 41 mm
Case materialOystersteel, Rolesor, yellow gold, white gold, Everose gold
MovementCaliber 3235 (36/41 mm), 2236 (28/31 mm)
Power reserveApproximately 70 hours (3235)
Water resistance100 m
BezelFluted, smooth or gem-set
BraceletJubilee, Oyster or President depending on reference
FunctionsTime, date with Quickset and cyclops
Figures describe the current production reference unless stated otherwise. Specifications vary by reference and year — see the reference table above. Source: rolex.com. Watch Bros Co. is an independent dealer and is not affiliated with Rolex SA.
Datejust Questions
What size Datejust should I buy?+
36 mm is the classic and suits most wrists; 41 mm reads modern and works well above about 7 inches; 31 mm is the versatile mid-size. Wrist shape matters more than measurement — try them on.
Is a fluted bezel real gold on a steel watch?+
Yes. Rolex machines fluted bezels from solid white gold even on otherwise steel references, which is part of why they cost what they do.
Jubilee or Oyster bracelet?+
Jubilee is dressier and more comfortable to many; Oyster is flatter and more robust. It is genuinely personal, and it changes the character of the watch more than any dial choice.
What should I budget?+
The range is wide because the configuration range is wide. Tell us the size, bezel and dial you want and we will quote current pricing.
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