​Product Spotlight: Why We Love the Rolex Datejust

And, though it boasts a decidedly simple design that has remained largely unchanged for the better part of a century, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust still stands as an unwavering symbol of luxury. In its 75-year history, this timepiece has been sported by tastemakers, badasses and starlets, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., John F. Kennedy, Winston Churchill, Jennifer Aniston, Bono, and David Beckham.

Here are a few more reasons why the Datejust will undoubtedly remain a perpetual (pun intended) staple among collectors.

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1. It’s a Classic

As one of Rolex’s oldest models that still remains in production, this is a watch for the brand purist. The epitome of classic Rolex, the Datejust harkens back to a time when luxury watches were smaller and simpler. It debuted in 1945 to celebrate Rolex’s 40th anniversary and was noteworthy at the time because it combined all of the watchmaker’s most significant timekeeping innovations into a single piece.

With a relatively small 36mm case, a traditional dial and a Jubilee bracelet—which holds the honor of having been exclusively designed for the Datejust as well as being the first in-house bracelet from Rolex—this is a chronograph that gets watch historians and enthusiasts really excited. It also bears the honor of debuting the signature Rolex Cyclops lens (introduced in 1953) to magnify the date display, a feature that has now become a Rolex hallmark.

2. It’s Stunning

Let’s not forget about the timeless beauty of the Datejust. A favorite among both men and women (the slightly daintier Lady-Datejust is the most popular Rolex for women) Datejust is iconic for its minimalism. Though it doesn’t boast the flashiest design in the lineup, it stands out for its well-appointed austerity—the gold fluted bezel, Cyclops lens, and jubilee bracelet all contribute to the rich aesthetic history of this gorgeous watch. Given the fact that it comes in so many unique variations, the Datejust can be customized to any wearer’s taste.

3. It’s Versatile

Considered among wearers and collectors to be a good “daily driver,” this is one Rolex that has the unique ability to fit in anywhere, whether worn alongside a neatly tailored suit or luxury sportswear.Today, the Datejust comes in three sizes ranging from 31 to 41mm. The largest size, the Rolex Datejust 41mm (Datejust II), is the most modern incarnation of the timepiece, offering a wider, sportier case in keeping with the cultural shift to oversized timepieces. It also comes in multiple colors, finishes, and materials to suit a variety of personalities and style profiles.

4. It’s High-Tech

Though the automatic date window on the Datejust now seems rather commonplace, this complication was revolutionary at the time. And, while the Datejust has changed little aesthetically, it has had some tech upgrades over the years. Most notably, it has seen several updates to the movement. Today, it features the caliber 3235 movement, which features a new escapement—dubbed “The Chronergy”—and a power reserve of 70 hours. The latest models are waterproof up to 100 meters.

5. It’s Attainable

There’s one more fundamental reason why the Datejust and Datejust II are so beloved among collectors. These are watches that have existed longer than many others, which means they’re found in virtually all impressive luxury watch collections and tend to routinely show up in amazing condition pre-owned. With brand-new models available for under $7,000, it’s also one of the most attainable Rolexes price-wise, making it a solid showpiece watch for the new collector.

Buy Datejust at Luxury of Watches

Want to own a timepiece steeped in luxury watchmaking history? The Datejust is an excellent choice. With decades of interest from collectors and casual wearers, this is a Rolex that will retain its value and remain desirable for years to come. Shop Luxury of Watches to find a new or pre-owned Rolex Datejust that celebrates your exceptional sense of style.