About Datejust

An iconic model, the Rolex Datejust was launched in 1945 as the first self-winding waterproof chronometer wristwatch to display the date at the 3 o’clock on the dial, and the world’s first watch to feature a date function that automatically changed. As one of Rolex’s most emblematic and top-selling watches, the Datejust is a reliable piece with unlimited configurations. In fact, it’s so popular that it’s the best selling model in at least 4 countries—check out this breakdown of the top watch brands by country to learn more.

While Datejust models have introduced new features over past decades, its enduring aesthetic has remained the same. Made for practical everyday wear, the Rolex Datejust is a highly accurate and suitable timepiece for any occasion.

The History of the Rolex Datejust

Since the collection’s launch in 1945 for the brand’s 40th anniversary, it has remained in constant production. Interestingly, the very first model was technically reference 4467, but it didn’t yet carry the Datejust name. Once the 1950s rolled around, the name became more standard and the design was finished off with the renowned Cyclops magnification lens on the crystal’s surface. This feature has set the precedent and standard for today’s date-displaying wristwatches.

  • A Matter of Movement

    Rolex’s revolutionary date display became the watchmaking standard after 1945. Prior to the Rolex Datejust, watches indicated the date by a hand pointing to markings around the edge of the dial. The Rolex Datejust was released using the Calibre 710, later replaced with the Calibre 730, which uses 17 jewels. While these movements were reliable, they were difficult to service. In 1957, the design of the Datejust changed to incorporate the new Calibre 1065 and date magnifier known as the Cyclops lens for easy reading. The caliber changed again in 1965, with the introduction of the Calibre 1570. In 1988, the Calibre 3135 was introduced, improving, but not totally renewing, the watch’s movements. With automatic winding, high accuracy, and high water resistance, the Rolex Datejust became one of Rolex’s most wearable watches. Many elements of the model such as the dial layout, hands, and specs remain almost unchanged from its introduction.

Datejust Characteristics

When the Datejust was first released it was only available in yellow gold. In following years, Rolex introduced rose gold, steel, and two-toned one editions, known as Rolesor. In the 2000s, the flat and polish bezel became an alternative to the classic fluted bezel. The Datejust lineup offers a variety of sizes for men and women consisting of 28mm, 31mm, 34mm, 46mm, and 41mm. Designed in a spectrum of metals, dials, textures, bracelets, and types of markers, the Rolex Datejust provides endless configurations.

Discover Important Models

Over the years, the Rolex Datejust collection has seen its fair share of changes and iterations, but the intrigue and collector-worthy status of these pieces has remained the same. Check out a variety of its most memorable models and references for recommendations on where to start looking for your next piece.Check out such models like: 126234, 126300, 16233, 1630

  • The Turn-O-Graph

    Perhaps one of the most noteworthy versions of the Datejust is the Turn-O-Graph ref. 1625 which launched in 1953. It features a gold Turn-O-Graph bezel which gives it a stopwatch functionality, and it was also awarded to U.S. Airforce pilots after returning from combat missions. If you’d like to see a modern version of this piece up close, watch this expert review of the Rolex Datejust ref. 116264.

    • Rolex Datejust ref. 16233

      The iconic two-tone stainless steel and yellow gold Datejust ref. 16233 was released in 1988. This timepiece stayed in production until 2005, and features a sapphire crystal, the caliber 3135, and a fluted bezel. Available in either a Jubilee or Oyster bracelet, this Datejust also boasts a range of dial colors including champagne, white, blue, and black.

      • Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust

        This historic, rare model features a gorgeous faceted metal bracelet and a fluted gold bezel. It’s extraordinarily robust with the caliber 5035 ticking away inside, and it’s COSC Swiss Chronometer certified—a true feat for quartz watches. Learn more about this piece by reading this review of the ref. 17013.

        • Rolex Oystersteel Datejust ref. 126234

          Durable and robust, the Rolex Datejust ref. 126234 is a 36mm timepiece featuring a screw down caseback and winding crown, a fluted bezel, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and the self-winding caliber 3235. Collectors also enjoy its instantaneous date feature with rapid setting and stop seconds.

          • Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 41

            Fans of a sunburst dial and stainless steel Oyster bracelet can’t go wrong with this model. The Oyster Perpetual Datejust 41 ref. 126334 measures in at 41mm and has a striking stainless steel case with an 18k white gold fluted bezel. See all of its features and movements up close when you watch this detailed review.

            • Rolex “Rare Bird” Datejust ref. 1630

              Released a few years earlier than its Oysterquartz predecessor, the Rolex “Rare Bird” Datejust ref. 1630 is a two-tone version of the stainless steel Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 1530. It’s 36mm, fitted with an integrated Jubilee bracelet, and features three gold centrelinks.

              • Two-Toned Ref. 16233

                Featuring a yellow gold fluted bezel, a stainless steel case, and a two-tone bracelet, this model sticks out to many collectors. This self-winding automatic watch is 36mm and boasts a beautiful slate grey Jubilee bracelet. Although it’s no longer in production, it was replaced by the ref. 126233 if you have trouble finding a pre-owned ref. 16233.

                • Datejust II

                  Although not a part of the original Datejust suite, this collection deserves a bonus mention. Introduced in 2009, this suite is a bit sportier and flaunts the new, self-winding movement caliber 3136. It also clocks in at a robust 41mm for those who prefer a larger watch. Once this collection launched, the original Datejust references have seen a surge in demand on the pre-owned market.

                How Much Does a Rolex Datejust Cost?

                It goes without saying that pre-owned Datejust models range in cost and often fluctuate based on demand, materials, condition, and official documentation. If you’re looking for a more rare piece like the Rolex Pearlmaster Datejust ref. 86349SAFUBL, you should expect to pay around $83,000. However, most mid-range models typically cost between $12,00-$16,000, while more basic Datejusts are valued at around $4,500 to $9,000.

                Why Buy Pre-Owned Rolex Datejusts From WatchBox?

                Explore our expansive assortment of Rolex Datejusts in premier condition. Because of Rolex’s popularity, many of the highly sought-after models in our collection won’t last long. As the world’s leading platform for the buying, selling, and trading of pre-owned luxury watches, we are the trusted destination for watch enthusiasts worldwide. Learn More about our unrivaled selection, guaranteed authenticity, and superior watchmaking service. Or, explore other collections such as our entire Rolex Watches for Men. Have a specific model in mind? Shop for a pre-owned Submariner, Daytona, or GMT-Master II

Datejust Pricing Guide