Model Reference
PRE-OWNED ROLEX DATEJUST 69173 WATCHES
Production Years:
The Rolex 69173 falls under the category of 26mm series of the Rolex Lady Datejust and was manufactured throughout a good chunk of the 1980s and 1990s. It has been recorded by Rolex Certified Pre-Owned that there were reference 69173s dating as far back as 1983 and even those made in 1999.
This era is significant in understanding the nature of the watch as the Lady Datejust model itself had existed in the lineage of Rolex watches since 1957, when Rolex modified the design of the popular Datejust into a smaller size with the same attributes of precision and water resistance as other Rolex watches like the Oyster Perpetual.
By the time the 69173 was manufactured, the series had already taken the shape of a small watch, an automatic mechanical movement, and a date display at 3 o’clock position.
Defining Features
The features of the 69173 is derived not from its size, but rather from the juxtapositions. This is the case of the 26mm watch whose steel and yellow gold make it visually larger than it actually is. In fact, the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned listing describes this watch as 26mm Yellow Rolesor, featuring steel and 18 ct yellow gold.
At the heart of the 69173 beats the automatic Rolex Calibre 2135. This is a self winding movement that is consistently described by the Certified Pre-Owned program of the brand for 69173 models. Protected by the sapphire crystal is the dial of the 69173, as specified in the listings of this model by the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned.
Located at 3 o'clock is the complication of this watch which makes this reference part of the Datejust family. Above the date is the Cyclops lens - the distinctive element of the Rolex watches designed to increase legibility of the date. It was on the Datejust that Rolex placed the Cyclops for the first time.
Where the 69173 becomes particularly varied is at the dial. Champagne is frequently seen, but authenticated Rolex Certified Pre-Owned watches also confirm black, white Roman numeral, silver tapestry and mother of pearl configurations. Diamond set champagne dials are documented as well.
This variety means the dial can completely change the appearance of the reference. A champagne configuration emphasises the yellow gold elements, while black produces considerably stronger contrast. Mother of pearl and diamond set versions take the same 26mm watch in a more decorative direction.
About Rolex Lady Datejust Model Number 69173
69173 is an example of a relatively conservative approach towards the Lady Datejust's design. Unlike other attempts to increase the watch's wrist presence with increased diameter, Rolex used small case size, contrast of metal used and distinctive calendar window.
Use of Yellow Rolesor is an integral part of the watch design. The mixture of gold and steel known as Rolesor was used by Rolex since the beginning of the 1930s; the term was registered as a trademark in 1933. According to Rolex, Rolesor combines both qualities of these metals and later became a symbol of the Datejust line of watches.
However, the bracelet may be just as traditional in 69173. The Jubilee bracelet present in 69173 models is a five piece link bracelet designed specifically for Datejust in 1945.
There is also a clear mechanical distinction between the 69173 and the generation that followed. Rolex Certified Pre Owned records identify the 69173 with Calibre 2135, while authenticated reference 79173 watches from the later generation are documented with Calibre 2235. This provides a useful technical distinction when comparing two visually similar Lady Datejust references.
For collectors and wearers interested in an earlier Lady Datejust, the 69173 therefore has a specific identity: 26mm proportions, Yellow Rolesor construction, Calibre 2135 and a broad selection of dial treatments within the same reference.
At a Glance
- 26mm Oyster case in yellow gold and Oystersteel
- Jubilee bracelet in yellow gold and Oystersteel
- Dial in champagne, yellow gold, white, pearl, and more
- Rolex 2135 calibre with automatic movement
- Water-resistant to 100M
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Source Vintage, Rare, and Pre-Owned Datejust 69173 Watches
If you want to procure pre-owned Rolex wristwatches, BQ Watches can help. Our expert team will always go above and beyond to source the Rolex you’ve been wanting. Just let us know the details, and we’ll take care of the rest. In addition to our extensive Rolex inventory, we offer brands like Cartier, Audemars Piguet, Bremont, Breitling, Omega, and many others. We can always help you find the brand you want and the perfect watch for your style.
BQ Watches has an incredible inventory of used Rolex Datejust 69173 watches, and we also take pride in our customer service and satisfaction. You can always count on BQ Watches to provide a great experience, whether you’re buying from our online store or our shop in London.
Why Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex Datejust 69173?
The pre-owned Rolex Datejust 69173 combines timeless styling with the durability required for everyday wear. Its 26mm case is crafted from stainless steel and yellow gold, while the fluted bezel, date display with Cyclops lens and choice of classic dials give it an instantly recognisable Rolex look. Often paired with the elegant Jubilee bracelet, it is a versatile ladies’ watch that works well for both daily wear and special occasions.
Buying pre-owned also provides an opportunity to own a discontinued Datejust reference with genuine vintage character, often at a more accessible price than a comparable modern model. Powered by a dependable self-winding Rolex movement, the 69173 remains a practical and highly wearable watch with lasting appeal.
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If you’re looking for the best watch showroom in London, UK, always visit BQ Watches. Our inventory is constantly rotating, so there is always something new to buy. If you’re not looking to purchase a watch, we also make offers on watches you’re looking to sell. We can offer cash or give you trade-in value if you want to exchange your timepiece. Of course, we also offer our professional cleaning, repair, and appraisal services.
And please don’t hesitate to inquire about our sourcing services for second-hand Rolex Datejust 69173 timepieces. We always want to make sure our customers walk away with a watch they love. Contact us using the form below and let us know what service you need. We will be in touch shortly.
Why Choose BQ Watches for a Pre-Owned Rolex Datejust 69173?
With the 69173, choosing the reference does not necessarily mean you have chosen the watch. Champagne, black, mother of pearl and diamond set configurations can take its appearance in very different directions, so anyone looking to buy should consider the individual dial and condition as closely as the model number itself.
An older Lady Datejust may also have accumulated decades of wear and servicing. An appraisal from BQ Watches can look at the actual timepiece in front of us, including its configuration, bracelet, case and accompanying items.
Perhaps you already enjoy the two tone Datejust look but now prefer different proportions. An exchange can provide a route from the 26mm 69173 into another Rolex or a different luxury watch that better suits what you wear today.
There may also come a point when the watch simply spends more time stored than worn. We can help you sell your Rolex 69173 directly when you decide it is time for the watch to leave your collection.
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