As the watch that set the industry standard for how a date complication should function, the Rolex Datejust continues to be a top-selling model and as of 2019, some vintage models have sky-rocketed in value. The stainless steel and two-tone models are still very desirable and affordable and are currently listed at $8,200 for the reference 126234 in steel, and $12,700 for the reference 126333 in two-tone. For many, the Datejust is the quintessential Rolex watch, and while prices across the board still remain more accessible than many of the brand’s high-tech sports watches, the Datejust is Rolex’s best-selling model of all time, and is a true icon within the luxury watch industry.
The modern standard of the classic watch, the Rolex Datejust can be easily dressed up or dressed down. A far cry from boring or basic thanks to an aesthetically versatile face with hands and hour markers fashioned from solid 18-carat gold to prevent tarnishing, this stylish but simple watch is perfect for jet-setters and homebodies alike. The classic styling of the Datejust is entirely timeless, and despite its luxurious detailing, this iconic Rolex model offers users 100 meters of water resistance, allowing it to be a watch that can effortlessly transition from the boardroom to the beach, and everywhere in between.
The Rolex Datejust
The iconic Rolex Datejust has sustained its popularity over many years and this can be attributed to its customizable style. Each watch can be designed with any metal material, bezel or bracelet style the wearer wishes. Watch aficionados can choose from steel, platinum or yellow gold as the main material for their timekeeper and they can also add a fluted or gem-set bezel with an oyster, president or jubilee bracelet design. With so many options for creating a one-of-a-kind and distinctive timepiece, this watch can be tailored to one’s professional and leisure pursuits.
About the Datejust
The self-winding chronometer of the Datejust was launched in 1945 and has become famous for its appearance on various movie stars. In fact, the Datejust might be one of the most iconic film timepieces ever. Bill Murray sported a black dial Datejust in the film Lost in Translation, Harrison Ford wore a white Roman numeral dial and white-gold bezel version in the 1980s movie Frantic and Paul Newman wore a Datejust in The Color of Money in 1986.
Plus, many politicians fell for the classic simplicity of the Datejust including Bill Clinton, Eisenhower and Ronald Reagan who all wore the watch during their presidencies.
The casually cool and classic aesthetic of this watch makes it perfect for making a breezy fashion statement if even if you’re not running for office. Try a lightweight plaid button-down with a navy or gray blazer and add a pair of dark wash jeans. Give the look a little urban edge with burnished tan boots and a cognac-colored leather belt.
Today, the Datejust is celebrated for its refined elegance, history, and its triumphant watchmaking quality. In addition to looking as good for that next date you’ll be making a sound investment for the future. For the casual watch enthusiast or the die-hard collector, this watch is not to be missed.
