The Rolex Datejust is a legend in the world of horology thanks to its everyday blend of style and functionality.
Rolex has constantly updated, upgraded and expanded the Datejust range since its creation in 1945, all the while positioning it as a watch that is the very definition of classic elegance.
Every model in the vast range of Datejusts from over the years has the same simple formula: central hours, minutes and seconds hands with the date displayed at 3 o’clock under a magnifying cyclops lens.
They all come in Rolex’s iconic Oyster case, with chronometer-certified automatic movements (apart from relatively rare Oysterquartz pieces) protected from water by a screw-in twinlock winding crown and screw-down caseback.
Versions with leather straps are no longer produced, but new today there is a choice of three-link Jubilee or five-link Oyster bracelets; plus three-link President bracelets for smaller models.
Most associate the Datejust with the crimped pie dish bezel, but there are also plainer smooth bezel styles, often adorned with diamonds in the smaller size models.
The range is almost limitless, with elegant ladies’ pieces — with or without diamond decoration — starting at 26mm and men’s pieces topping out at 41mm.
And you will find options in steel, white, yellow or rose gold, a combination of steel and gold or occasionally platinum.
Dials are like a blank canvas where Rolex can allow its creativity to run wild.
Over the years almost every colour under the sun has been used, and there have been some memorable designs including palm leaves, floral patterns and Rolex’s own fluted texture.
Hour markers might be picked out in diamonds, precision-set applied batons and Roman (or occasionally Arabic) numerals.
As with every Rolex, the range is produced to exceptionally high standards to keep them humming reliably for half a century or more, which means they have consistently held their value over many years.
Here, Rolex pre-owned watch specialist Bob’s Watches presents an expert guide to the best Datejust watches to buy right now, and includes links to its extensive collection that are available immediately.
Rolex Datejust Two-Tone
Shop for two-tone Datejust models at Bob’s Watches.
Rolex Datejust 126333
This Rolex Datejust ref 126333 Two Tone Oyster has a striking blend of 904L stainless steel, 18 karat yellow gold and a slate grey dial with green Roman numeral hour marketrs to offer a highly versatile dress watch that can accompany you on your daily activities or dressed up for a night out on the town.
The men’s Datejust II boasts one of the most reliable readings on the market today, thanks to the next generation calibre 3235 movement with bidirectional winding, a 70-hour power reserve, and a Superlative Chronometer certification.
It can be bought today for $15,495.
Rolex Datejust 16013
There are references with either an oyster or jubilee bracelet for this 36mm two-tone classic that is wearing just perfectly in today’s market for either men or women.
Buy this Datejust 16013 model today for $5,995.
Rolex Datejust Stainless Steel
Click here to browse the full range of Rolex Datejust Stainless Steel timepieces at Bob’s Watches or go straight to one of these recommendations.
Rolex Datejust 116300
The Rolex Datejust II Ref 116300 Steel Oyster pairs the Datejust’s core design with fashion-forward elements, such as a larger 41mm case and fully-lumed baton hour markers, to create a watch that is on-trend.
Bold yet still sophisticated, this is the timepiece to wear if you wish to make a lasting impression. The 116300 is a desirable edition of the larger Datejust because it showcases an all-steel finish crafted from Rolex’s proprietary 904L-grade Oystersteel and a contrasting black dial.
The Datejust’s signature jump date mechanism is always presented at the 3-hour marker, and the Rolex logo is placed at the 12-hour marker for a watch that is instantly recognizable.
Buy this Rolex 116300 Datejust model for $9,595.
Rolex Datejust 16014
This reference 16014 is an extraordinary variation of the Datejust, featuring a white gold fluted bezel and a 36mm Oyster case.
The case is equipped with a screw-down crown to offer waterproof protection of up to 330 feet, increasing its resistance to everyday wear and protecting the Swiss certified perpetual movement within.
You can buy this Rolex 16014 timepiece from Bob’s Watches today for $5,495.
Gold Rolex Datejust Watches
Although there are Datejust models in rose and white gold, it is yellow gold that is bang on trend today, and Bob’s Watches has a broad range of gold Rolex Datejust watches for sale. Here are a pair of classics.
Rolex Datejust 16238
From 1999, this Rolex Datejust 16238 with white Roman dial makes a bold statement with its yellow gold fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet, just like the original Datejust from 1945.
It’s an absolutely iconic iteration of the timeless Datejust that Bob’s Watches expects will only continue to appreciate alongside the price of gold and the exclusive Rolex brand.
This Rolex 16238 Datejust model is available to buy at Bob’s Watches for $19,495.
Rolex Datejust 116138
Offered on a leather strap, this early 2000s Rolex Datejust 116138 is elegant and sophisticated in a 36mm case with a fluted bezel and golden dial.
The yellow gold in this beautiful watch is perfectly complimented by the genuine Rolex brown leather bracelet with yellow gold clasp. An impressive watch for any occasion.
Additional reading on the Rolex Datejust
If you are still craving more information about the history of the Rolex Datejust, models from the 1940s to the present day, and recommendations on what to buy now, check out this comprehensive guide from Bob’s Watches.
