Rolex Datejust Watches

Rolex Datejust: Overview & Key Specifications

The Rolex Datejust watch looks good, but it also solves a problem. Before this model, it was not a standard feature to read the date on a watch. So, the Datejust changed how people use wristwatches by making the date an important component of the design.

Model Description and Naming

The story starts in 1945. Rolex was celebrating its 40th anniversary, called the “Jubilee.” So, the company released a new watch model to celebrate the occasion. It was the first self-winding wristwatch that was waterproof and had a date window on the dial that changed automatically. 

The name “Datejust” comes from the mechanism itself. The date “just” changes. According to Rolex’s official website, dates on watches would slowly and steadily drift over to the next number for hours. However, the date on this watch jumps to the next day right at midnight, and this happens instantly. 

In addition, another important feature is the “Cyclops” lens, which is the bubble you see over the date window. While this was not on the first model in 1945, the company added it later in 1953. The Cyclops lens magnifies the number 2.5x so you can read it without squinting your eyes. 

Technical Specifications

When you buy a Datejust, you get the core technology, which makes Rolex famous. Almost all versions have the following engineering features:

• Oyster Case: The case is made from gold or Oystersteel. It is very rigid and protects the inside movements of the shocks. 
• Water Resistance: You can swim with a Rolex Datejust watch because the company has rated it waterproof to 100 meters or 330 feet. The Twinlock winding crown makes this possible because it screws down right against the case with two sealed zones. 
• Movement: Most Rolex Datejust watches have a perpetual mechanical movement on the inside, which winds itself when you move your arm. Larger models between 36 mm and 41 mm use Calibre 3235, which has a power reserve of about 70 hours. So, you can leave it for the weekend, and it will still be running on Monday. Smaller models have 28 mm to 31 mm use Calibre 2236 and have a reserve of about 55 hours. 
• Accuracy: It is a Superlative Chronometer, which means the watch model is very precise. After the movement is put inside the case, it is tested to be accurate within -2 to +2 seconds per day. 

Main Size Variants

The most difficult thing about buying a Datejust watch is choosing which one you want because there are numerous options. But the following table makes it easy for you to choose the correct one:

Bezel and Bracelet

People usually choose between two types of bezels. The first one is the smooth bezel, which is polished steel and looks very clean and simple. The second is a fa luted bezel made of 18k gold. It has ridges that catch the light. Professionals often call this the “dressy” look. 

When it comes to the bracelet, you have the Oyster bracelet and the Jubilee bracelet. The first one usually has three flat links, which give the watch a sporty look. The second one comes with five small links, making it feel very comfortable. In fact, it looks like jewelry. 

Rolex Datejust Prices: Retail vs Secondary Market

There are two prices for every Rolex:

• Retail: the price that the “authorized dealer” can sell you the watch. 
• Secondary Market: The price you actually have to pay to get one. 

Authorized dealers usually have empty display cases because these watches are in high demand. So, this causes most people to go to the secondary market. There, prices are set by how much buyers want the watch, not by a list. 

Secondary Market Price Overview

The secondary market is often called the pre-owned or grey market. Here, prices change like the stock market. For instance, currently, the market has cooled down from the peak of 2022. However, popular models still cost more than retail. 

Steel Models: These are the trendiest Datejust models. For example, a steel Datejust 41 with a blue or green dial is very hard to find at a dealer. However, if you go to the secondary market, you might pay AED 37,500 or $10,200 even though the retail price is lower. 

Two-Tone (Steel and Gold): While these would sell for less today, prices have climbed. You can expect to pay between AED 49,500 and 55,000 ($13,500 to $15,000). Remember, prices depend on the condition. 

Diamonds: If the dial has diamond hour markers, the price is even higher. Likewise, factors like the “Full Set” make a lot of difference. A watch sold with its original green box and warranty card is worth much more than the “watch only.” 

Official Retail Price List

It is very hard to get an allocation from an authorized dealer. However, if you are lucky enough, this is the approximate list of prices you would pay. 

Keep in mind that retail prices are always fixed. However, secondary market prices for these same references are 20% to 30% higher, depending on the dial color. 

Rolex Datejust Watch as an Investment

Many people ask whether a Rolex Datejust is a good investment. Our short answer is “yes and no.” While it is a safe watch to invest your money in, it won’t make you rich all of a sudden or overnight. When we analyze the historical data, we see that the Datejust goes up in value slowly and steadily. 

The average price of a pre-owned Rolex Datejust between 2010 and 2025 went from about AED 4,200 to AED 31,200. When it comes to investment, the important thing is to focus on the retention of the configuration. A stainless steel Datejust with a Jubilee bracelet and a Fluted bezel maintains its value. Unusual dials like the “Wimbledon” with a slate dial and green Roman numerals are also good for investment. 

Authenticity, Certification, and Warranty

We all know that luxury watches are very expensive. There are real and fake watches in the market. Therefore, knowing that a Rolex Datejust is real is very important. The company builds these watches to perfection. Therefore, any imperfection is a sign of a fake watch. Experts usually look at details when checking a Datejust for authenticity:

• The Rehaut: It is the inner metal ring around the dial. Modern Rolex watches have the word “ROLEX” engraved repeatedly around them. Also, the serial number is engraved at the 6 o’clock position. 
• The Laser Crown: There is a sapphire crystal right at the bottom, where there is a tiny and almost invisible Rolex crown logo etched into the glass. Experts use a high-quality magnifying glass and the right lighting to see it. 
• The Movement: An expert mechanic will open the back to see the movement. If the movement is clean, well and good. 

Other important authentication factors are looking for polished screws, jewel bearings, and finishing quality. Moreover, all modern Rolex Datejust watches come with a Green Seal or tag, which means the watch is a superlative Chronometer. It guarantees the watch has gone through tough testing by Rolex after the movement was cased to ensure it keeps perfect time. 

Moreover, the warranty depends on where and how you buy the Rolex Datejust watch. For instance, a new watch from an authorized dealer gives you a 5-year international warranty. If you buy from the certified pre-owned program, you will get a 2-year international warranty. At Watch Maestro, we provide our own protection by offering a one-year limited warranty.