A Modern Take on the Rolex Lady-Datejust Diamond Yellow Gold Oyster Automatic Wristwatch

The Datejust is a Rolex classic that appeared on the market in 1945. Although the Rolex Lady-Datejust Automatic Wristwatch was first created for men. The manufacturer followed it up with the Rolex Lady-Datejust in 1957. And it featured the same essential characteristics but in a smaller size. The Datejust is still in production to this day, and it is Rolex’s best-selling watch of all time.

The Rolex Datejust collection features countless design sets. And this includes several metal finishes, case sizes, dial colors, and bracelet options. Today, the ladies’ Datejust is a success in its own right. And it outsells many of the brand’s most sought-after sports watches. Below we take a closer look at the modern Rolex Lady-Datejust, its history, and where you can buy it.

Rolex Lady-Datejust Automatic Wristwatch History

The history of the Rolex Lady-Datejust dates back to the early 1900s. In the time of the Rolex brand’s establishment. Yet, it took another 50 years before the Lady Datejust watch made its first appearance. 

During this time, Rolex was not an actual manufacturer of watches like the brand is today. when Rolex started out, the brand did not have its own factories. During its early years, Rolex sourced its components it could from third-party suppliers. 

An Age of Innovation

Rolex made history in 1926 with the introduction of its first waterproof wristwatch. The case was named “Oyster” for its reliable watertight seal. This invention followed the “Perpetual” movement in 1931. By the early 1930s, Rolex already had the foundation for the first Datejust. Although the model itself would not make an appearance for another decade.

The first Rolex Lady-Datejust Automatic Wristwatch hit the market in 1945. During its release, the Rolex Datejust became the first wristwatch to feature an auto changing date mechanism. Displayed through a window in the dial. 

During its early years, pocket watches were the norm for men. Although, women wore ornate wristwatches. This all changed due to Rolex’s pioneering technologies from the 1920s and 1930s. By 1945, the wristwatch was mainstream among both men and women.

The First Lady-Datejust

Rolex released the first Lady-Datejust in 1957. It’s also hot on the heels of the enormous success of the men’s version of the watch. It featured everything the men’s Datejust offered. And this includes a waterproof Oyster case. Also, it features self-winding movement, and the brand’s signature date display window. 

Rolex produces the Lady-Datejust in every metal finish available. And this includes Oyster Steel, Everose gold, yellow gold, platinum, and two-tone (Rolesor). The latter is the term used by Rolex to describe the pairing of stainless steel with gold components. On a single watch, Rolex offers Rolesor models with all three colors of 18k gold (yellow, white, and pink).

The Rolex Lady-Datejust Automatic Wristwatch also boasts countless bezel, bracelet, and dial configurations. The Lady-Datejust drips in diamonds. Also, the other side of the catalog contains all-steel models. With simple smooth bezels and Oyster bracelets. The Datejust is Rolex’s most diverse line of watches. And there is a Rolex Datejust for every possible wrist.

Rolex Datejust Case Sizes

Rolex is always evolving and catering to ever-changing watch trends. The brand attributes much of its success to its ability to adapt. Even while remaining true to the core designs of its pillar models. Rolex has an unparalleled ability to be trendy while maintaining design standards. An example is the progression of the Oyster case within the Lady-Datejust collection.

Ladies and Midsize Options

26mm: The Lady-Datejust measured 26mm in diameter. This size and weight were good for the trends at the time. Although its 26mm remained the standard case measurement of the Lady-Datejust for decades.

28mm: By 2015, women’s watch tastes were favoring larger, more contemporary timepieces. It wasn’t uncommon to see men’s watches on the wrists of many fashion-forward women. To answer the common trend among women for larger watches. Rolex discontinued the 26mm Oyster case and released a 28mm version. It was large enough to make a statement while the brand kept the feminine style. Although it remained a cornerstone design element of the Rolex Lady-Datejust Automatic Wristwatch.

31mm: While not a member of the Lady-Datejust series. The 31mm option of Rolex is also definitely worth mentioning. Most people see it as a modern embodiment of classic ladies’ Rolex watches. Although it is classified as a midsize model. By adding a few millimeters to the case size the watch takes on a bolder aesthetic. Even while still remaining more compact than the full-size men’s watches.

Full-Size Options

34mm: regarded as Rolex Date, the discontinued 34mm adds more millimeters to the case size. And it is classified as a full-size men’s model. But, it gets labeled as a unisex watch and mentioned along with the midsize Datejust models. And this is due to its versatile case size. It appeals to men who prefer smaller options to the classic Datejust 36. Also, women who want a larger case than the midsize or Lady-Datejust.

36mm: Rolex continues to produce the men’s Datejust in 36mm, like the first model from 1945. Even though it is a men’s watch, the Datejust 36 remains a popular choice for women. Even now Rolex offers many different configurations of the classic 36mm. And these are designed with female customers in mind.

41mm: In 2009, Rolex reinvented the Datejust once more by releasing the 41mm Datejust II. It remained in production for a few short years before it got replaced by Datejust 41 in 2016. And this is still 41mm in diameter but features a sleeker and less bulky case. While the 41mm model is classified as men’s watches, both editions also make fantastic options for women. Who want a Rolex model with a large case and plenty of wrist presence?

Factors to Consider before Choosing How to Store Your Rolex Lady-Datejust Automatic Wristwatch 

One of several factors to consider is: How often do you wear your Rolex? 

If you wear your Rolex daily, then storing it in a watch box or safe should suffice. Most Rolex Lady-Datejust Automatic Wristwatches have a reasonable power reserve. Although this should keeps your timepiece functioning. Although, from the moment you take it off at night until you put it back on the next morning. If you like to reserve your Rolex for special occasions. Then you may want to consider storing your Rolex on a watch winder. 

This option will keep the movement in motion as well as the date and time current. And it will save you the extra step of having to reset it each time you want to wear it.

If you’re planning on storing your Rolex for a long time, ensure that the movement is well-lubricated. And that the crown and gaskets are in good condition before storing it. You also want to wind it about once a month to allow the movement’s components. 

And this allows the movement to remain stagnant for long periods of time. And this may need more maintenance in the long run. 

Keeping your watch on a winder will cause minor amounts of extra wear and tear. And it is unnecessary if you’ll only be wearing it a handful of times each year. Leaving your Rolex sitting still in a watch box or safe with an occasional wind should work fine.

Another factor to consider is humidity. Temperature and other elements such as light and dust are also included. Even if you have your Rolex Lady-Datejust Automatic Wristwatch tucked away in a box. Moisture and other elements may still cause damage over time. The vast majority of Rolex watches are water-resistant. But if you have an older vintage model – especially one that has not had its gaskets replaced recently. Humidity and dust can find their way into the case, causing damage to both the movement and dial/hands. 

If you think this may be an issue, consider a humidity-controlled watch box. And this will keep your Rolex dry and cool. It’s also recommended to keep your Rolex in a dark place. Kept away from light if you will be storing it long-term. Because constant light exposure to the dial may cause it to fade over time. While some aging is desirable on older Rolex watches. It’s best to preserve the dial’s quality for as long as possible.

Watch Storage Options

Where to keep your Rolex watches comes down to personal preference. And this is influenced by the size of your collection, your lifestyle. And of course your financial or spatial means. 

Unless you only own one watch like a Rolex Submariner and wear it every single day. Then you will more than likely need a place to keep your watches when they aren’t on your wrist. 

Watch storage options include original boxes, display cabinets or cases, wraps, winders, safes. And sometimes a combination of more than one of these methods. 

Let’s explore common Rolex Lady-Datejust Automatic Wristwatch storage options. Along with the positives and negatives associated with each one.

Original Boxes

This one is not ideal for many people but it will work for storing your Rolex. Keeping the original box and papers of a watch is important. In the event that you wish to sell the watch for it’s most secondary market value. But using the original boxes as storage systems is not a good idea for a couple of different reasons.

These boxes are designed to be packaging and presentation materials. Rather than items that will receive daily use. Overusing a box will only harm its condition and thus reduce its value. Store original boxes in a separate box in a cool, dry location. And it should be stored away from any kind of light to prevent the exterior from fading. Even worse still, becoming laden with dust.

Secondly, it can look a bit cluttered and messy – especially if you own multiple watches. You can’t see the watches themselves in most styles of packaging and in some cases. And boxes from the same brand have no distinguishing marks to give you a clue on what you’re about to see when you open it. 

If you have another Rolex storage option, it is generally best to keep your watch elsewhere.  And it shouldn’t return to its original box until it’s time to send it off to a new home.

Display Cabinets

A display cabinet is a bit of an old-fashioned concept in this slick. Tech-heavy world – and also one that requires a larger footprint than most options. But, for those who prefer to arrange their watches behind glass in a static position, it is still an option. Individual watch stands are available and a tasteful display cabinet can make for a characterful display. Even when marshaled with care and attention.

Watch Boxes

This is many collectors’ preferred method of daily and mid-to-long term storage. The watches are presented under glass, allowing one to admire their beloved collection. Even when the watches aren’t on their wrist. Keeping them in one place also makes it easy to choose a watch to wear. Even without hassling with a safe or watch winder. Although display cases are acceptable options for storing luxury watches within a safe.  

Hence why some collectors might opt for one without a glass top. Even so, and then keep that entire watch box inside their safe.

Conclusion

The Rolex Lady-Datejust Automatic Wristwatch is an excellent lady watch. The watch looks magnificent and offers excellent performance. 

You can expect excellent performance from any watch in this collection.  And this features several variations including models with an Oyster bracelet. Even a Jubilee bracelet, all with a date window and date magnifying lens. Available in several shades which are yellow gold, raised gold, stainless steel. And not to forget two-toned combinations of all the above. New models are always being added to this collection.