History of the Rolex Datejust

The history of the Rolex Datejust started in 1905, Hans Wilsdorf founded the company that would be the well-known luxury brand it is today, Rolex. Originally based in the United Kingdom under the name Wilsdorf & Davis, Rolex was renamed by Hans Wilsdorf upon transitioning the company’s location to Switzerland, where his suppliers were located. Although not much is known about the early days of Rolex, it was understood that Hans Wilsdorf insisted on this name for a number of reasons. Wilsdorf preferred a name that was easily pronounceable in all languages, but short enough to fit elegantly on the dial of his watches. 

In 1945, the first Rolex Datejust was released, in celebration of the 40th anniversary of Rolex, it has remained largely unchanged for the past 60 years. The Datejust was the first automatic wristwatch with an automatically changing date window. It was housed in an Oyster case.

The very first Oyster case was introduced in 1926, making it the very first water-proof case to be produced on a major scale as well as in general. Previously made water-proof cases were flimsy and had to be snapped over top of the main case. 

The 1st Rolex Datejust | History of the Rolex Datejust

The first Datejust (ref.4467) was only available in yellow gold with a yellow gold Jubilee bracelet. 

The subtly tan/white dial with gold batons to mark the hours, including the day-date window, showed even days in red and odd days in black numbered colors. There was no cyclops magnifier inside the crystal over the date at the time, that wasn’t introduced to the Datejust until 10 years later in 1955. On the dial, the word “Datejust” does not appear on the dial– instead, “Rolex Oyster Perpetual” is written at 12 o’clock and “Chronometre” at 6 o’clock. The bezel is slightly fluted which will appear more in the 1960s version of the watch. 

Since then, there have been numerous variations of the Rolex Datejust. There are two-tone steel and pink gold variations, entirely steel models, and watches that feature stone dials, some with diamond bezels. The name “Datejust” finally started to appear on some newer models sporadically (ref.5030 and ref.5031), however, it wasn’t permanently seen on the watch until later references 6074 and 6075. 

Rolex Datejust models from the 1960s and 1970s

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, upgrades to the Rolex Datejust movement were made. Rolex launched the iconic Caliber 1570 into the model in 1965. The firm then introduced the quickset feature to the clock in the 1970s. As a result, it received an entirely new movement: the Caliber 3035. The debut of the Caliber 3035 in 1977 with the Rolex 16014 increased the frequency of the model. It had moreover 28,000 beats per hour as compared to around 20,000 beats per hour. As a result, accuracy has increased dramatically. Following the commencement of the Quartz Crisis in the late 1970s, Rolex added a quartz movement into the collection with the Datejust OysterQuartz, Reference 17000.

The 1980s Rolex Refinements | History of the Rolex Datejust

Rolex updated the movement to the Caliber 3135 in the late 1980s. This movement was of the same size as the 3035. However, the replacement of the acrylic crystal with a sapphire crystal allowed for a significantly smaller watch. This improved the classic design.

16200 family of Datejusts

The Rolex Datejust has remained unchanged in many ways, still at 36mm like the original. In 2009, Rolex introduced the Rolex Datejust II in a 41mm size. Both size versions offer similarities to the original Datejust such as in variety and style of dials and other details. Variations also include different styles of golds, added diamonds, and Arabic numerals. Some horology enthusiasts believe the 36mm is too small, the 41mm can live classically alongside the 36mm version and can be a good alternative for those who feel that way. Furthermore, when the Datejust debuted, it was accompanied by a new form of bracelet – the Jubilee, which was developed exclusively for the Datejust. The name “Jubilee” was proposed for the watch itself (since it was produced to commemorate Rolex’s 40th anniversary), but it was ultimately only used for the five-piece metal-link bracelet that has been an option on Rolex Datejust watches ever since.

The Datejust was not created for a specific sport, environment, or lifestyle activity. While the Submariner was developed for SCUBA divers and the Daytona for racing car drivers, the Datejust is just a traditional and dependable timepiece with a timeless and adaptable style that was designed to be worn every day, during a wide range of activities.

A few important Datejusts 

When U.S President Dwight D. Eisenhower sported his personal Rolex Datejust on the cover of Life Magazine, it put the Rolex Datejust on the map in the place of pop culture and history. This is one of the many examples that illustrate the importance of this watch in the world of horology. An archetypal Datejust from the mid-1950s (ref.6305) is one that even Daytona collectors get excited about. This vintage Datejust is made from solid steel and shows one of the earliest examples of the fluted bezel that we are familiar with today. The dial that is off-white in color is more collectible than the other option of the time – a grayish-black dial (ref.6305), both have a honeycomb texture on the surface.  It wasn’t until the 1950s, with the reference 5030 and 5031 Datejust watches, that stainless steel and Rolesor (two-tone) variants became available, and the term “Datejust” began to be printed.

Ref. 6604 | History of the Rolex Datejust

This version of Rolex Date just dates back to 1957. It is especially unique due to the fact that it is solid platinum, with the original woven platinum bracelet. It houses a black honeycomb dial with gilt printing and lume plots. It is unclear how many were made, making it more valuable. 

Ref. 116200 | History of the Rolex Datejust

There are numerous combinations of dials, metals, and bracelets for this more modern version of the Datejust. Particularly we’ll compare with ref.116234 – because of its classically historical traits with the few modern updates. Released in 2005, it was slightly wider than the original. 

Rolex Datejust an Iconic watch 

Rolex had debuted their Caliber 1560 movement during the late 1950s, ushering in a new generation in the shape of the reference 160x series. The Datejust’s overall look was very much decided at this phase. Other characteristics like the hands, bezel, hour markers and crystal (with cyclops magnification lens) took shapes that are still very much present on the current Datejust watches that Rolex makes today.

The Datejust received its second significant modification in the late 1970s when Rolex released their Caliber 3035 movement with the reference 160xx series. The ‘quickset’ date feature was added to the latest generation of Datejust watches, allowing users to independently modify the date display without also adjusting the hands indicating the time. The reference 16013 is the original Rolesor (stainless steel and yellow gold) version of this generation of Datejust watches, complete with Rolex’s characteristic fluted bezel.

This series of Datejust watches kept the 36mm case diameter of its predecessors, but it was distinguished by a number of modest design modifications that coincided with the new generation of movement. While the crystals on the 160xx generation of Datejust watches are still constructed of acrylic, the previous generation’s slanted “pie pan” type dial has been replaced with one with a fully flat surface, similar to the displays that Rolex still employs today.

In 1988, Rolex introduced a new generation of Datejust watches, the reference 162xx series, which was based on their revised Caliber 3135 mechanism. Although it was functionally identical to the preceding movement generation, the Caliber 3135 had a few minor enhancements that promised greater timekeeping, dependability, and overall day-to-day ease.

While the reference 162xx series included a brand-new movement, the crystal was perhaps the most notable alteration to accompany this new generation of Datejust watches. Unlike prior generations of Datejust watches, which were made of acrylic, the crystal of the reference 162xx generation is composed of scratch-resistant synthetic sapphire, just like the current watches that Rolex manufactures today.

Modern Evolutions of the DateJust II

The Datejust II, the next major upgrade, was released in 2009. For decades, the regular men’s Datejust was 36mm in diameter; however, with the debut of the Datejust II, Rolex added a 41mm variant to complement the usual 36mm model.

The reference 1163xx generation of Datejust II watches was remarkably similar to the wristwatch that customers had grown to know and love; but, to accommodate its bigger case, this new generation was outfitted with Rolex’s Caliber 3136 movement. Furthermore, the Datejust II was only available with an Oyster bracelet, as opposed to the 36mm version, which could be ordered with either an Oyster or a Jubilee bracelet.

While the 41mm Datejust II met the public’s desire for a bigger watch, the new wristwatch did not take off right away. The Datejust II series was discontinued after only a few years. However, Rolex’s oversized Datejust was reintroduced in 2016 as the Datejust 41, with a new reference number, a new movement, and slight stylistic changes.

The Datejust 41 is still in production today, along with its brothers ranging in size from 28mm to 41mm, and it is available in a broad range of metal combinations. Furthermore, the Datejust collection offers more dial, bezel, and bracelet combinations than any other Rolex watch line, ensuring that there is a suitable Rolex Datejust for almost any wrist size and aesthetic.

The Datejust 41

Rolex offered enthusiasts of the Datejust a curveball in 2016. They discontinued the Datejust II and introduced the Datejust 41. The Datejust 41 is a 41mm variant of the traditional Datejust, similar to the Datejust II. The movement is the most noticeable change between the newest Datejust 41 and the Datejust II. The Rolex Caliber 3235 in-house movement, with fourteen patented components and Superlative Chronometer certification, is housed inside the Datejust 41.

Choosing the Perfect Date for You

The Datejust and Datejust II look to be quite similar at first glance. However, if you start dissecting them, you will see the discrepancies. The first consideration is size. The Datejust is a smaller variant, measuring 36mm, whilst the Datejust II is slightly bigger, reaching 41mm. This affects not just how they look on the wrist, but also the proportions of the design. The Datejust II sports a larger bezel as well as thicker lugs. It also has extra space between the date window, hour markers, and the famous Rolex crown at twelve o’clock.

Then you must check behind the hood. Both versions include a COSC-certified chronometer movement with Rolex’s proprietary Parachrom hairspring. The Datejust II’s Caliber 3136, on the other hand, consists of the brand’s high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers. So, how do you select between the original Datejust, the Datejust II, and the brand-new Datejust 41?

The Datejust II is currently only available in pre-owned condition. If you’re searching for a new model, this might not be the best option. The Datejust II, on the other hand, is a perfect alternative if you want a rarer model that is no longer in production. Then there’s the matter of size. The Datejust 41 and Datejust II are both attractive watches if you want bigger and more contemporary dimensions. If you’re searching for a more modest size, the Datejust is the way to go. There’s also a movement to consider for watch enthusiasts.

The Rolex Datejust has gone through several generations.

Throughout its existence, the Datejust has experienced a number of movement and cosmetic enhancements, and Rolex is always improving on its classic design. The following are several generations of Rolex Datejust watches and their distinguishing characteristics. This post will concentrate on the reference that Rubber B provides the best rubber straps.

Rolex Datejust 41mm

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2016 – present / Rolex Datejust 41 – Reference numbers: 1263XX

Rolex discontinued the Datejust II in 2016 in favor of Datejust 41. While the 41mm case size remained, the new Datejust 41 featured dimensions comparable to the old Datejust and was equipped with a new-generation movement. The Datejust 41 is regarded as a more elegant version of the Datejust II, which is more sturdy and athletic. In addition, the Datejust 41 comes with the choice of an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet.

Movements: Caliber 3235 automatic movement

Models 126334, 126331, 126333, 126300, 126303, and 126301 are all compatible (including Jubilee and Oyster bracelet versions)

NOTE: This strap is NOT compatible with prior models “Datejust II 41mm”, which is a different watch model you can see those option below.

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2009 – 2015 / Rolex Datejust II 41mm – Reference numbers: 1163XX

Rolex created the Datejust II in 2009 in response to the increased popularity of bigger watches. With its 41mm case, this was the first time Rolex provided a men’s size in addition to the classic 36mm. In addition to the bigger case, it had thicker lugs and a wider bezel.

Movements: Caliber 3136 automatic movement

NOTE: Not compatible with the newer 2016-present “Datejust 41mm” models.

Vulcanized Rubber strap engineered to fit Rolex Datejust II case (pre-2016 ONLY along with model ref. 116334) and deployant buckle (Oyster bracelet version only). NOTE: The pre-2016 Jubilee clasp is not compatible with this strap. This strap utilizes “Blocked Integration” engineering, incorporating solid inserts for a flawless, motionless flush mount to the watch case.

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Rolex Datejust 36mm

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2018 – present / New generation Rolex Datejust 36 – Reference numbers: 1262XX

Rolex revamped the Datejust 36 series in 2018 with the new Caliber 3235 movement. With an accuracy of -2/+2 seconds each day, the in-house automatic movement has a longer power reserve of 70 hours and is two times more exact than an officially certified chronometer.

Movements: Caliber 3235 automatic movement

NOTE: This strap is NOT compatible with prior models “Datejust 36mm produced before 2018”. Contact our customer service department for help with older models.

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Rolex Datejust 31mm

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Oyster Bracelet Datejust 31

Use your Original Rolex clasp – (Clasp NOT included)

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Use the Rubber B 316L SS Tang Buckle – (Tang Buckle included)

Are You in Need of a Custom Rubber Watch Band For Your Luxury Watch? Visit Rubber B Today

Rubber B watch straps do not contain any coating, blends, or bonding, and each and every strap undergoes rigorous testing to ensure that it meets quality control standards.

If you would like to learn more about our complete list of products, shipping policies, pricing, or have questions about our custom rubber watch straps, please visit the Rubber B website today for more information. One of our valued associates will be happy to answer your inquiry in a timely manner.

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