The History: Rolex Datejust

The Rolex Datejust: A Timeless Classic

Elegant, simple, timeless, and a fantastic timepiece - these are the descriptors befitting the exceptional Rolex Datejust, introduced in 1945. Even today, the Datejust stands as a classic, available in various sizes, colors, bezels, and bracelets. 

 

A newer Rolex 116200 Silver dial

Inception:

The watch made its debut in 1945 to commemorate Rolex's 40th anniversary. Remarkably, the Datejust remains the oldest watch in the Rolex lineup to this day. Serving as the first self-winding wristwatch with a date function, its date feature seamlessly transitions at midnight.

Distinguishing Features:

In contrast to other iconic Rolex models tailored for specific sports, environments, or lifestyles, such as the Submariner for scuba divers and Daytona for race drivers, the Datejust is singularly crafted to be a classic and reliable wristwatch. Designed for everyday wear across a spectrum of activities, it lacks the specialized features found in other Rolex timepieces.

Vintage Rolex Datejust, with the rare blue "buckley" dial 

 

Rolex Datejust 1601:

Among the most iconic within this model, the Rolex Datejust 1601 was introduced in 1959. Key features of the Datejust 1601 include a 36mm Oyster case crafted from stainless steel or precious metals like gold or Rolesor (a combination of steel and gold). It also features a fluted bezel, a distinctive characteristic found in many Rolex watches. As mentioned earlier, the watch was the first self-winding timepiece with a date function, a hallmark of this model. The Datejust 1601 offers a variety of dials with motifs and colors, adding a unique touch to this model's elegant and straightforward design. It is available on either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet, offered in both steel and gold/steel models. Equipped with a caliber 1570, later replaced by the more reliable 3035, the Rolex Datejust 1601 is part of the Oyster Perpetual series, featuring a waterproof Oyster case and utilizing the self-winding Perpetual rotor to maintain the watch's movement.

 

New Rolex Datejust Palm/Wimbledon Dial:

Over the years, Rolex has experimented with various dials for the Datejust model, and this trend continues. Among these innovations is the Olive Green Palm Motif, presenting a distinct expression with Rolex's signature green color. Although the Datejust was not originally conceived for specific usage patterns beyond being a simple everyday watch, in 2009, Rolex introduced a special dial known as Wimbledon, named after the tennis tournament for which Rolex has been a sponsor since 1978.

Rodgere Federe wining Wimbledon wearing a Datejust Wimbledon. Credit: Rolex