Rolex Datejust
Rolex Datejust : The Most-Recognisable Rolex Watch
The Rolex Datejust is a classic model in the brand's Oyster Perpetual range. It is one of the earlier Rolex models, launched in 1945, for the manufacturer's 40th birthday.
With its state-of-the-art design, history and functions, the Datejust watch has been described by Rolex themselves as one of the brand’s “most recognisable watches”.
Just like other Rolex watch models, the Datejust has gone through a few changes over the years including upgrading the fluted bezel to a smooth ring bezel, the case size and adding the characteristic Rolex date magnifying glass.
Current Rolex Datejust models are made in the tradition of the originals, ensuring the model maintains its unmistakable appearance. Described as being simple, yet brilliant at the same time, the Rolex Datejust has remained continually popular since its launch.
The Date Display Feature
Rolex themselves describe the Datejust wristwatch as the “ideal everyday watch”. One of the reasons why the model was so great for everyday use was its date display feature. The creation of the model introduced the calendar display, which displayed the date via a small window on the dial. With the Datejust, collectors of Rolex could enjoy a classic analogue watch which could not only track time but days too.
Featured at the 3 o’clock position on the watch, the Datejust later had a Cyclops lens added to the crystal in 1953, so that wearers could easily read the date displayed. Its dome shape is now instantly recognisable and is an iconic feature of the watch.
The convenience of the date display revolutionised the watch industry and the window date display has now become a standard among many wristwatches.
Celebrating Rolex Milestones
For the 100,000th officially certified Rolex, company founder Hans Wilsdorf came up with a very special idea. He gave it to British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, one of the most important figures in history. Churchill received the Oyster Perpetual Rolex Datejust, fashioned in 18 karat gold, with a white dial and jubilee bracelet.
The tradition continued with the 150,000th certified Rolex wristwatch, which was presented to United States President Dwight D Eisenhower. He was given a Datejust watch (Ref. 6305) made of solid gold.
It has been called “the watch that changed history” for good reason, as it has become the brand's best-selling watch of all time. A timeless classic, it is dedicated to sophistication and functionality and represents the perfect enhancement for everyday life. Always noticed and admired, it is a timepiece that will last a lifetime.
The Rolex Datejust as an Investment
When it comes to
pre-owned Rolex watches, demand is unyielding and therefore prices are steadily rising. Vintage Datejust models are just as popular with watch lovers as the latest collections.
As one of the oldest watches still produced today, the Rolex Datejust became a sensation as a result of its Oyster casing. There are numerous 36 mm Rolex Datejusts available today, but a particularly collectable variant is the Datejust Men's II, released in 2009 in a 41mm size.
One reason is because the date display is one of the most reliable in modern watches. The vintage Datejust models are equally reliable and as such, their value is assured. Depending on rarity, condition, and reference number, some vintage Rolex Datejust watches from pre-owned watch specialists can go for under £10,000 while some can go for over £30,000.
In aesthetic terms, the famous jubilee bracelet has become one of the Rolex brand's trademarks. It was available exclusively with the Datejust originally and the fact it has now been added to more Rolex watches is a testament to its quality.
Famous Wearers Of Rolex Datejust
All things considered, a Rolex Datejust is a great investment. From actors to sports stars, many famous people have chosen to wear Rolex wristwatches over the years and some have selected the Datejust as their chosen timepiece.
If you're looking for celebrity endorsements of the Datejust, James Bond actor Daniel Craig has been spotted wearing the classic Rolex Datejust stainless steel model, while style icon and former footballer David Beckham has worn his Datejust on a black leather strap. Other celebrities known to own a Rolex Datejust include U2 vocalist Bono and Friends star Jennifer Aniston.
This classic everyday Rolex watch has also featured in many Hollywood productions too such as ‘American Psycho’ where Christian Bale’s leading character wore a Rolex Datejust watch.
Former world number one tennis player Roger Federer also has a special two-tone Datejust II watch with a slate-coloured ‘Wimbledon’ dial. He wore his Datejust watch in 2009 when he broke Pete Sampras’ Grand Slam record.
Rolex Datejust Prices
Prices for used Rolex Datejust watches vary dramatically, depending on the scarcity and condition of the model. An individual pre-owned Rolex Datejust can vary in price by around £7,500 depending on whether it is in mint condition, or has the odd fine mark on the casing.
When looking for pre-owned Rolex watches to purchase, there are many used watches which have a lower price point. There are many used Rolexes which are priced at below £10,000. For some of the most expensive used Rolex Datejust watches on the market right now, there are models set with diamonds which can cost around £40,000 - £60,000.
Model popularity, condition, and age, can all have an impact on how much a Rolex will cost.
In comparison, the Rolex Datejust and Rolex Submariner are quite popular and are consistently in high demand. Models like the Datejust Ref. 6075 and Ref. 6627 from the 1950s can also vary significantly in price compared to new models from the 2020s like the Ref. 126331.
Every one or two years, prices of Rolex watches tend to increase. In terms of the Rolex Datejust, over the past few years, the Ref. 16200, Ref. 116200 and Ref. 126200 have all seen price increases.
There are plenty of beautiful dial colours to choose from, such as bold red, smooth chocolate, or classic black or white dials. If you're searching for something more striking, you can also opt for models with diamond sets.
For the best selection, browse our Rolex Datejust watches here at WatchCentre. As a leading pre-owned watch specialist, we can assure you of the highest quality, authentic, pre-owned Rolex watches, whether you're buying a gift for a loved one, or making an investment for yourself.
