How often does a Rolex Datejust need to be serviced?

Rolex recommends servicing every 10 years for modern Datejust models (post-2015 with the Caliber 3235). Older models with the Caliber 3135 or 3035 should be serviced every 7-10 years. A full Rolex service costs approximately $800-$1,200 through an authorized service center and includes movement overhaul, pressure testing, gasket replacement, and case/bracelet refinishing. Independent watchmakers may charge $400-$700 but won't use genuine Rolex parts.

Can you swim with a Rolex Datejust?

Yes: the Datejust is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet) thanks to its Oyster case and Twinlock screw-down crown. It's safe for swimming, snorkeling, and showering. However, always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before water exposure, and have the water resistance tested during routine servicing. The Datejust is not designed for serious diving, for that, consider the Submariner or Sea-Dweller.

What's the difference between a Datejust and a Day-Date?

The Day-Date (the 'President') displays both the day of the week spelled out at 12 o'clock and the date at 3 o'clock, and is only available in precious metals (gold or platinum). The Datejust shows only the date and is available in steel, two-tone, and gold configurations. The Day-Date starts at approximately $38,000 (18k yellow gold) while the Datejust starts at $7,450 (Oystersteel). They share the same movement but serve different segments of the market.

Why is the Rolex Datejust so popular?

The Datejust's enduring popularity stems from three factors: versatility (it works with literally any outfit and any occasion), configuration variety (hundreds of possible combinations of size, material, bezel, bracelet, and dial), and cultural weight (80 years of being worn by presidents, athletes, actors, and business leaders). It's also the 'safe' Rolex: nobody has ever regretted buying a Datejust. It's the one watch that does everything well and nothing badly.

Are aftermarket modifications okay on a Datejust?

Aftermarket modifications, especially non-factory diamond bezels, custom dials, and third-party bracelets,generally decrease a Datejust's resale value, sometimes dramatically. The exception is factory Rolex gem-setting, which is documented on the warranty card and maintains full collector value. If you're buying pre-owned, always verify whether diamonds and dial configurations are factory original. At Ultimate Diamond, every watch is authenticated and all modifications are disclosed.

What is 'Rolesor' on a Rolex Datejust?

Rolesor is Rolex's trademarked term for a two-tone combination of Oystersteel and gold. 'Yellow Rolesor' combines steel with 18k yellow gold; 'White Rolesor' uses 18k white gold; 'Everose Rolesor' uses Rolex's proprietary 18k rose gold alloy. On a Datejust, the Rolesor configuration typically means a steel case and bracelet with a gold fluted bezel and gold center bracelet links. Rolesor Datejusts offer a middle ground between all-steel and all-gold in both aesthetics and price.

Is a Datejust a good first Rolex?

The Datejust is widely considered the best first Rolex you can buy. It's versatile enough to wear with anything from a suit to jeans, holds its value exceptionally well, and comes in dozens of configurations across two sizes (36mm and 41mm) to suit any wrist and any style. It's also the most historically significant Rolex model, the watch Eisenhower wore, the watch that introduced the date window to wristwatches. At Ultimate Diamond, approximately 40% of first-time Rolex buyers choose a Datejust.

Datejust 36 vs 41, which size should I choose?

The 36mm Datejust is the original and classic size, ideal for wrists under 7 inches and for those who prefer a vintage-proportioned, understated look. The 41mm is the modern standard, better suited for wrists 7 inches and above and for those who like a more contemporary presence. The market trend is actually shifting back toward 36mm as vintage sizing returns to favor. Try both on: most people are surprised by how well the 36mm wears, even on larger wrists.

How much does a Rolex Datejust cost in 2025?

New Rolex Datejust prices in 2025 range from $7,450 (36mm Oystersteel with smooth bezel) to over $80,000 (full gold with diamond bezel and dial). The most popular configuration, a 41mm steel with fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet (Ref. 126334),retails for approximately $10,500-$11,100. Pre-owned prices vary widely: vintage models start around $3,000-$5,000, while current-production models with desirable dials trade at or above retail on the secondary market.

Do Rolex Datejust watches hold their value?

Yes: the Datejust is one of the best value-holding watches in the world. Current-production steel models typically trade at 90-110% of retail price on the secondary market, depending on configuration. Discontinued references (like the 116234 and 116233) have been steadily appreciating. Vintage Datejusts from the 1960s-1970s with original dials have shown consistent 5-10% annual appreciation over the past decade. The Datejust won't deliver the speculative returns of a Daytona, but it offers reliable, bond-like value preservation.

What is the Wimbledon dial on a Rolex Datejust?

The 'Wimbledon' dial is an unofficial collector nickname for a Datejust dial featuring a slate-grey sunray finish with green-outlined Roman numerals, a design referencing Rolex's partnership as Official Timekeeper of Wimbledon since 1978. First introduced on the Datejust II in 2009, it's now available on both the Datejust 36 and 41 in multiple material configurations. The Wimbledon dial consistently trades at a premium over standard dials on the secondary market and is one of the most recognizable modern Rolex configurations.

Fluted bezel vs smooth bezel on a Datejust: what's the difference?

The fluted bezel is crafted from 18k gold (white, yellow, or Everose) and is the Datejust's signature design element: dressy, elegant, and light-catching. The smooth (domed) bezel is Oystersteel and gives the Datejust a cleaner, more casual, sportier look. The fluted bezel adds $1,500-$2,000 to the retail price due to its precious metal content. For the classic Datejust look, go fluted; for a more modern, understated aesthetic, go smooth.

Where can I buy a Rolex Datejust in NYC?

NYC's 47th Street Diamond District is the epicenter of the pre-owned Rolex market, with dozens of authorized and independent dealers within a single block. Ultimate Diamond has been a trusted family-owned dealer on 47th Street since 1959, carrying thousands of authenticated Rolex Datejust models across every reference, configuration, and price point. We offer competitive pricing, expert authentication, and the kind of personalized service that online marketplaces can't match.

Is the Rolex Datejust a good investment in 2025?

The Datejust is a reliable store of value rather than a speculative investment. Current-production models hold value well with minimal depreciation. Discontinued modern references like the 116234 and 116233 are actively appreciating. Vintage references with original dials (especially the 1601 with rare dial colors)have shown strong 5-10% annual gains. The best 'investment' Datejust right now is arguably the 16234 (1988-2004) in excellent condition. You get a sapphire crystal, modern movement, and classic looks for roughly half the price of its current-production equivalent.

Jubilee vs Oyster bracelet on a Datejust?

The Jubilee bracelet is the Datejust's original companion, introduced together in 1945. Its five-piece link design is dressier, more elegant, and more comfortable. The Oyster bracelet's three-piece solid links are sportier and more strong-looking. For the classic Datejust experience, choose the Jubilee with a fluted bezel. For a more casual, tool-watch feel, pair the Oyster with a smooth bezel. Modern versions of both bracelets are extremely well-built, the old reputation for Jubilee fragility no longer applies to post-2000 references.

Rolex Datejust: The Complete Collector's Encyclopedia

The Rolex Datejust is Rolex's best-selling model and arguably the most versatile luxury timepiece ever produced. Introduced in 1945 as the world's first self-winding waterproof chronometer with an automatically changing date display, it has spent eight decades as the default choice for professionals across every industry. Available in 36mm and 41mm case sizes, in steel, two-tone Rolesor, or solid gold, and with dozens of dial configurations, the Datejust accommodates virtually any wrist size, occasion, and budget within the Rolex ecosystem. Whether configured with a smooth bezel and Oyster bracelet for sport versatility or dressed in a fluted bezel on Jubilee for boardroom authority, it remains the single watch that works with everything.

Last updated: 2025-04-01

Available at Ultimate Diamond

3 pieces in our collection right now.

Datejust 36 · $23,500 Datejust 41 · $22,000 Datejust 36 · $19,950

Specifications

Current References{"datejust41":"126334 (White Rolesor), 126300 (Oystersteel), 126333 (Yellow Rolesor), 126331 (Everose Rolesor)","datejust36":"126234 (White Rolesor), 126200 (Oystersteel), 126233 (Yellow Rolesor), 126…

Diameter{"datejust41":"41mm","datejust36":"36mm"}

Case Thickness{"datejust41":"11.8mm","datejust36":"11.6mm"}

Case MaterialsOystersteel (904L), White Rolesor (Oystersteel + 18k white gold), Yellow Rolesor (Oystersteel + 18k yellow gold), Everose Rolesor (Oystersteel + 18k Everose gold), 18k Yellow Gold, 18k White Gold, 18k…

Movement{"caliber":"Rolex 3235","type":"Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding","powerReserve":"Approximately 70 hours","frequency":"28,800 vph (4 Hz)","jewels":31,"accuracy":"-2/+2 seconds per day (Superlative …

Water Resistance100 meters (330 feet)

CrystalScratch-resistant sapphire with Cyclops lens (2.5x magnification) over date at 3 o'clock

Bezel OptionsSmooth (Oystersteel or gold), Fluted (18k white gold, yellow gold, or Everose gold), Diamond-set (various carat weights)

Bracelet OptionsJubilee (five-piece links, folding Oysterclasp or concealed Crownclasp with Easylink 5mm extension), Oyster (three-piece solid links, folding Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm extension)

Dial VarietyDozens of configurations including sunray, fluted motif, palm motif, and plain finishes in black, blue, silver, slate, green (mint and olive), white, rhodium, champagne, mother-of-pearl, and chocolate…

LumeChromalight display (long-lasting blue luminescence)

Year Introduced1945

Original Reference4467

Msrp Range{"datejust36":{"oystersteel_smooth_oyster":"$7,450","oystersteel_fluted_jubilee":"$9,550","rolesor_fluted_jubilee":"$13,000-$14,400","fullGold":"$28,000-$37,000+","diamondSet":"Up to $75,000+"},"datej…

History

In 1945, to celebrate its 40th anniversary, Rolex introduced the Datejust (reference 4467)as the world's first self-winding waterproof chronometer wristwatch to display the date in a window on the dial, automatically changing at midnight. The original was a 36mm case in 18k yellow gold. Alongside it, Rolex debuted the Jubilee bracelet, a five-piece link design named for the anniversary, initially crafted exclusively in solid 18k yellow gold. The 'Datejust' name did not consistently appear on dials until references 5030 and 5031 in the early 1950s.

Iconic References

Buying Guide

• First luxury watch purchase: the Datejust is the safest entry point into Rolex
• Daily wear that transitions from office to weekend to formal events
• Dress watch that doesn't look out of place with a T-shirt
• Investment-conscious buyers seeking strong value retention
• Collectors building a well-rounded watch collection, the Datejust is a cornerstone piece
• Gift purchases for graduations, promotions, or milestone birthdays

Pricing & Market Data

Retail MSRP

datejust36 entry$7,450 (Oystersteel, smooth bezel, Oyster bracelet, Ref. 126200)

datejust36 fluted$9,550 (Oystersteel + white gold fluted bezel, Jubilee, Ref. 126234)

datejust36 twoTone$13,000-$14,400 (Yellow/Everose Rolesor)

datejust41 entry$8,050 (Oystersteel, smooth bezel, Oyster bracelet, Ref. 126300)

datejust41 fluted$10,500-$11,100 (Oystersteel + white gold fluted bezel, Jubilee, Ref. 126334)

datejust41 twoTone$14,400-$16,750 (Yellow/Everose Rolesor)

datejust fullGold$28,000-$42,000+ depending on size and gold type

datejust diamondSetUp to $80,000+ for full diamond bezel and dial configurations

note2025 MSRP after January price increase (~4.8% average). Additional ~3% increase in May 2025 for gold models.

Market Trajectory

The Datejust market has stabilized after the 2022 correction. Current-production steel models trade at or slightly above retail for standard dials and meaningfully above retail for desirable configurations (blue, green, Wimbledon, palm). Vintage and neo-vintage references are on an upward trajectory driven by growing collector interest in older Datejusts. The two-tone segment is experiencing a renaissance after years of being unfashionable. Overall direction: steady appreciation with annual Rolex MSRP increases providing a rising floor.

Investment Grade

B+ (Current production steel) / A- (Discontinued modern references like 116234) / A (Vintage references with original dials like 1601). The Datejust is not a speculative investment like the Daytona or GMT-Master: it's a store of value that appreciates slowly and reliably. Think bond market, not crypto.

Best Value Pick

The Rolex Datejust 16234 (1988-2004, 36mm, steel with white gold fluted bezel, Caliber 3135, sapphire crystal) represents the best value in the Datejust universe today. You get a modern sapphire crystal, the bulletproof 3135 movement, solid construction, and the classic Datejust look for $5,400-$8,700: roughly half the price of its current-production equivalent (126234 at $9,550+ MSRP). It's the sweet spot of quality, value, and collectibility.

Comparisons

Cultural Significance

Frequently Asked Questions

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