It’s no exaggeration to say that every single Rolex collection, make, and model pushes some form of boundary.
As a brand, Rolex has long been driven by a desire to lead the market – founded in 1905 by a man who was committed to creating a wristwatch that was not only stylish and high in quality but also precise, functional, and reliable.
Hans Wilsdorf, the man behind the brand, had experience with other watch brands, and used to spend his days winding pocket watches for Cuno Korten. It was during this job that he found a gap in the market for previously unpopular wristwatches, which he believed could elevate the market and offer wearers a more convenient way of telling the time – if only the accuracy of such designs could be improved.
In 1905, he travelled to Switzerland to work with renowned watchmaker Hermann Aegler and produce a range of wristwatches that could be accurate and stylish. Then, in 1910, Rolex received the first Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision for a wristwatch, as granted by the Official Watch Rating Centre in Bienne.
What all of this tells us is that, from day one, Hans Wilsdorf – and thereby the entire Rolex brand – was driven by and committed to quality as well as innovation and a desire to push boundaries. And this is something that you see in each and every Rolex collection, whether it’s one of the sports models or an example of everyday wear.
What Is the Rolex Datejust?
When the Datejust was first released by Rolex in 1945, it was created and engineered as a form of anniversary model for the brand. Prior to its release, Rolex had pioneered the waterproof Oyster case and the self-winding Perpetual movement, and was now looking to release a timepiece that not only combined these two standout features but also added another – the ability to quickly read the date from the watch face.
Since the 1950s, ‘Datejust’ has appeared on the dial of the watch itself – though this was not always a part of the design. Originally, the wristwatch was called the ‘Rolex Oyster Perpetual’, but was termed the Datejust a few years after its release.
Keep reading for a breakdown of some of the key features, before we consider the most iconic models and releases that sell extremely well on the luxury watch market.
Standout Features of the Datejust
The first thing to note about the Datejust is that, ever since its original release in 1945, production of the Datejust has continued almost seamlessly. Countless variations have reached the market in the decades since its release, all with their adjustments and flairs – though always boasting the same core features.
These include the simple design that was made to be accessible to all kinds of wearers, the classic watch face with the magnifying Cyclops lens over the small date box, and of course that date box that automatically changes at midnight.
Over the years, many elements of the Datejust design have changed. New and innovative mechanics have improved the underlying function of the wristwatch, while aesthetic adjustments have granted buyers more choice in terms of the colour and material finish of their timepiece.
In fact, the innovations are such that the Datejust isn’t just the more accurate and up to date in terms of its mechanics, but it’s also the Rolex watch with the most variety in terms of finishes and materials. This is due in no small part to the simplicity of the original design, which lends the Datejust to such a wide variety of finishes and details.
The Most Iconic Datejust Models
The innovation of the Datejust model and the Rolex brand means that this timepiece is now available in multiple sizes, with a more delicate Lady-Datejust available with a more feminine finish, and two different bracelet options.
Depending on the individual tastes of the wearer, the Datejust comes in sizes ranging from 26mm right up to 41mm, with a plethora of dial colours and details to compliment buyer preference.
Some of the most iconic models, owing to their design and the inspiration behind their creation, include:
- Datejust 126200, which features a palm leaf and olive-green watch face, complimented by an incredibly simple silver steel structure.
- Datejust 126303, combining yellow gold and steel in the structure and bracelet, with the gold running in a line around the centre of the steel bracelet. This is enhanced by the white watch face, and is one of the more modern creations that gives the watch a high 100m water resistance and scratch-resistant crystal case.
- Datejust 278289RBR, complete with diamond hour markers and a mother of pearl dial. Despite the slightly larger size when compared with other Lady-Datejust models, this timepiece boasts feminine finishes.
- Datejust 126231, a piece designed in collaboration with tennis player Roger Federer. This watch has been nicknamed the ‘Wimbledon’ model and combines the steel and rose-gold structure with a slate-grey dial, Rolex-green hour markers, and a chunky bracelet.
As well as these most iconic models, it’s also worth noting that the Datejust has popped up multiple times in pop culture and the world of celebrities and A-list stars over the years. Matthew McConaughey’s character in The Wolf of Wall Street wears a Rolex Datejust, and stars including Dwight D. Eisenhower, Winston Churchill, Michael Jordan, and Dr Martin Luther King Jr have all worn and been seen with Datejust watches on their wrists.
Is a Rolex Datejust a Good Investment?
Not only will an authentic Rolex Datejust offer a good return on investment, but it also connects both buyers and sellers to a brand that is synonymous with luxury and status.
Owning an authentic Rolex is a goal held by many luxury watch enthusiasts – with the limited supply and exceptionally high demand only further driving the market and the value of each piece.
The Datejust isn’t only one of Rolex’s classic designs and timepieces – it also tells a story and connects with the brand’s history, evolution, and innovation.
Here at Love Luxury London, the Datejust is just one of a series of models that we have available – with our team selling and buying authentic pieces. Get in touch to book an appointment.
