When selecting the right Rolex wristwatch for you, whether it’s building on an established collection or starting out with your very first luxury timepiece, perhaps the most important thing to remember is that Rolex doesn’t have favourites.
While the materials, the underlying design hallmarks, and the purchase price may differ between collections and models, every Rolex on the market has been crafted with the same precision. Every Rolex commands the same coveted status on the market, and every Rolex is considered an excellent investment for its buyer.
In short, Rolex doesn’t discriminate between its collections. Rather, all of them represent the perfect timepiece for someone.
It just so happens that the Rolex Datejust is a model that suits both anyone and everyone.
So, which models should you be looking for as a first-time Rolex buyer – and what is it about the Datejust that makes it such a must-have in your budding collection?
Features of the Rolex Datejust
The Rolex Datejust is a classic by anyone’s standards. Bolstered by some of Rolex’s finest innovations and mechanisms, the Datejust displays the time as per a regular watch face, and the date in a small window that sits on the three o’clock marker.
At the top of the watch face, underneath the Rolex crown that replaces the 12 o’clock marker, are the words ‘Oyster Perpetual Datejust’. This speaks to two of the watch’s most prominent design features: the Oyster case and the Perpetual mechanism.
The Oyster case is Rolex’s answer to practical application, making the watch waterproof. Meanwhile, the Perpetual element alludes to the self-winding mechanism that allows the date on the watch face to change automatically. Both of these play a huge part in how the watch works and its underlying function, without detracting from the timeless simplicity of its overall design.
And it doesn’t end there. Other features of the Datejust include the option of the Oyster or Jubilee decorative bracelet, the bezel around the outside that adds texture and design flair, and the cyclops lens over the date window that makes it as readable as possible.
Why Is the Datejust So Popular?
Combining all of the above design traits, it’s not hard to see why so many buyers covet the Datejust as part of their Rolex collection.
Released in 1945, the Datejust is a celebration of some of Rolex’s finest and most prolific innovations – bringing all of these into a watch that is made for everyday wear. While not adorned with the practical features of some of Rolex’s Professional series of watches, the Datejust has everything you need for an elegant finish.
That’s why you’ll notice that ever since its original release in 1945, the Datejust has continued to be released by Rolex with new iterations and details.
Popular Models for First-Time Buyers
With all that in mind then, which Datejust models should you be looking for as a first-time buyer?
Because the Rolex Datejust has developed over time, the first decision facing buyers is whether they want to opt for a vintage piece or something a little more modern with the bells and whistles of 21st century watchmaking.
Buying a Vintage Datejust Model
Vintage models, like the Datejust 1601, embody the classic proportions of the range – with a fluted bezel, waterproof case, and a choice of watch face colours and bracelet materials for buyers to enjoy. The Datejust 16234 is an older piece that again embodies the hallmarks of the collection, with several choices available to the buyer.
Another vintage model that is popular among first-time buyers is the Datejust Oyster quartz, with a smooth connection between the bracelet and the dial of the watch to deliver a sleeker aesthetic. It’s worth noting that this particular model was only available for a short time, and so is one of the rarer Datejust models on the market. Getting your hands on one of these is an excellent way to start or indeed grow your Rolex collection.
When buying a vintage Rolex, be it a Datejust or any other collection, the important thing when it comes to price and value is condition. A vintage watch in excellent condition can be more expensive than the most up-to-date timepiece on the market. It all depends on the standard of the piece and of course the price that someone else is willing to pay.
The Top Modern Models from the Datejust Range
Moving into the more modern section of the market, you’ll notice that Rolex retains many of its hallmark traits – while exploring innovative materials and colour palettes.
The Datejust 278275 is one such model that follows the shape and style of a vintage Datejust but with a unique design. The rose-gold dial and bracelet, silver flower motif across the watch face, and the small diamonds that adorn the centre of each flower, all give this an incredibly feminine finish – alluding to the shift in market demand for Lady Datejust models.
The Lady Datejust represents a more delicate structure and finish and was first released back in 1957. Everything about the Lady Datejust is the same as the standard Datejust, just with a smaller size.
Another popular model for first-time buyers is the Datejust 126300 – owing largely to its classic colour palette and exquisitely refined aesthetic. While the bracelet and dial are finished in Oystersteel, the watch face boasts a rich green that evokes the grandeur of the Rolex brand.
For those seeking a first Datejust to start their collection, you can’t go wrong with a piece that captures the essence of the brand’s luxury status. Other popular reference models include the 126234, the 126303, and the 126200.
Many of these can be found with the help of reputable resellers, who specialise in valuing and buying pre-loved luxury goods and then selling them via local and boutique stores. Just make sure to ask for the proper authentication information and evidence ahead of purchase, especially when buying older models.