Pre Owned Rolex Datejust Watches in the UK

At BQ Watches, we specialize in the purchase and sale of original pre owned Rolex Datejust watches, each of which has been expertly authenticated, professionally serviced, and carefully prepared for you. Our in house experts maintain the highest qualities and reliability, providing you with absolute assurance when selecting your watch in the UK.

Discover our Used Rolex Datejust Collection

Explore our curated range of pre owned Datejust models below from rare vintage steel pieces with pie pan dials to modern 41mm references with white gold bezels. Whether you prefer timeless two tone classics or elegant Lady Datejust designs with diamond dials, our collection showcases every era of Rolex craftsmanship.

Why Choose BQ Watches for Pre Owned Rolex Datejust Watches

At BQ Watches, buying a pre owned Rolex Datejust is a refined and secure experience. Every watch is fully authenticated, delivered with insured protection, and supported by immediate bank transfers for complete peace of mind. With a permanent watch showroom in London, transparent valuations, and the trust of collectors and first time buyers alike, BQ Watches stands as the UK’s leading destination for luxury pre owned Rolex Datejust timepieces.

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Why Buy a Pre Owned Rolex Datejust in the UK?

At BQ Watches, we believe buying a pre owned Rolex Datejust is the most rewarding way to experience the model’s full heritage and value. With us, you can choose discontinued references, uncommon dial variations, and distinctive configurations no longer in current catalogues each independently authenticated and prepared to our standards. Pre-owned also means immediate availability without retail mark ups or waiting lists, so you secure genuine Rolex prestige right away, supported by local expertise and insured UK delivery.

Pre Owned Rolex Datejust Prices & Value Factors

The price of a used Rolex Datejust in the UK is determined by a combination of heritage, condition, and scarcity. Unusually, unlike most luxury products, the Datejust tends to hold its value or even appreciate with time, so it is an intelligent purchase for both beginners and collectors.

A number of variables impact market assessment and valuation:


  • Condition & Originality: High condition cases, unpolished dials, and original parts command a premium. Buyers will pay more for unpolished models with original parts.

  • Reference & Era: Classic references such as the 1601 or classic two tone 16233 command for historical value, whereas new 41mm models appeal to those seeking modern day wearability.

  • Dial Rarity: Some dial colors and configurations, e.g., mother of pearl, "Wimbledon green," or diamond set styles, have higher demand and more resilient resale values.

  • Bracelet & Bezel Type: White gold fluted bezels and the associated Jubilee or Oyster bracelet options can greatly affect desirability and cost.

  • Box & Papers: Full sets with their original Rolex papers add both collectibility and buyer assurance.

  • UK Provenance: Watches that have a service history and a record of purchase from UK dealers can give extra confidence to domestic consumers.



At BQ Watches, we go beyond selling, we also provide transparent Rolex valuations, giving you a clear understanding of your watch’s worth. Whether you’re looking to sell your RolexDatejust, part exchange it for another model, or simply request an expert valuation, our team ensures you achieve the best possible market price with immediate payment and no hidden costs.

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Rolex Datejust History & Legacy

The Rolex Datejust originally came out in 1945 to celebrate Rolex's 40th anniversary, arriving as the Oyster Perpetual Datejust. It merged the waterproof Oyster case, self winding Perpetual movement, and for the first time, a date window on the dial. The introduction also brought the now famous Jubilee bracelet.

Over time, Rolex made the model perfect with the Cyclops magnification bubble, the automatic date adjustment feature, and the Lady Datejust in 1957. More recent points of note are the Datejust II of 2009, then the new larger Datejust 41, and the new generation Datejust 36 of 2019.

Classically styled and full of heritage, the Datejust is still one of the most versatile and resilient Rolex watches, an absolute must have in every luxury collection. As one of Rolex’s most versatile creations, the Datejust sits at the heart of used Rolex watches, valued for its ability to blend everyday wearability with timeless elegance.

Popular References & Collectible Models

The Rolex Datejust has been manufactured in numerous variations, but a few of the references are notable due to their heritage, design characteristics, and sustained demand in the UK pre owned market:

Reference 1601 (1960s–70s)

An early stalwart of the Datejust collection, the 1601 is perhaps most famous for its fluted bezel and pie pan dial appointments that defined the classic Datejust look. Its acrylic crystal and distressed tritium lume ensure each model has distinct personality, making it a favorite among UK collectors who crave authenticity and charm in vintage Rolex.

Reference 16233 (1980s–90s)

One of the most identifiable two tone Datejusts, the 16233 pairs stainless steel with 18k yellow gold in Rolex's Rolesor combination. Its bold look and unmissable Jubilee bracelet made it a status symbol of success in the 1980s and 90s. Nowadays, it is very collectible for its vintage appeal and multiple wear possibilities.

Reference 116234 (2000s)

A contemporary re-interpretation of the traditional 36mm Datejust, the 116234 combines stainless steel with a white gold fluted bezel. With sapphire crystal and state of the art movement technology, it combines reliability with the sophistication of long established Datejust proportions. It strongly appeals to purchasers who need a no nonsense day to day Rolex with understated nuances.

Reference 126334 (current 41mm)

One of the most sought after new Datejust designs, the 126334 has a dominant 41mm case, white gold fluted bezel, and Rolex calibre 3235 movement with 70 hour power reserve. It combines strong wrist presence with classic styling to create a top pick for UK collectors seeking modern performance without sacrificing heritage appeal.

Reference 126300 (new 41mm, smooth bezel)

For those who like understated sophistication, the 126300 offers a sleek bezel option in full stainless steel. Available on Oyster and Jubilee bracelets, it's favored by businesspeople who desire a contemporary Rolex with understated yet commanding presence.

Lady Datejust 69173 (26mm, two tone)

A classic of women’s Rolex design, the Lady Datejust 69173 pairs stainless steel with yellow gold in a refined 26mm case. Frequently seen with diamond set dials, it remains a symbol of elegance and a highly sought after choice in the UK pre owned market for those who appreciate smaller, traditional proportions.

Features & Variants

Every Rolex Datejust is built around the iconic Oyster case, offering strength and water resistance. The line is known for its endless dial variations, from classic tones to mother of pearl, diamonds, platinum, and gold. Inside, each watch runs on Rolex’s precise automatic movement.
Bracelet options include the Jubilee, Oyster, and in some smaller models, the President. Materials range from steel and gold to Rolesor, with platinum available on select models. Bezels come in fluted, smooth, gem set, engine turned, and Turn O Graph styles, while sizes span 26mm, 28mm, 31mm, 36mm, and 41mm.

Source Your Preferred Used Rolex Datejust Watch in London

At BQ Watches, we don’t just sell, we also source. If your preferred Rolex Datejust isn’t in our current selection, our London based experts can locate it for you quickly and securely, ensuring you get the exact model you want.

FAQs

The cost of a second hand Rolex Datejust will vary depending on the size, reference, condition, and dial style. Stainless steel starter models will begin from a few thousand pounds, whereas rare vintage or diamond set models can cost much more.

The Datejust was the first automatic wristwatch to feature a date window (1945) and features a design, versatility, and wearability that is timeless.

Used Rolex Datejust watches generate high value due to their heritage, demand, and lasting quality. Discontinued references, rare dials, and original box and papers also drive prices up.

Yes. Pre-owned Datejust models hold their value or appreciation, particularly vintage references, rare dials, and sets with box and papers.

Condition, originality, dial rarity, bracelet type, provenance, and whether it has its box and papers all contribute to value.

References such as the 1601 (pie pan dial), 16233 (two tone classic), 116234 (36mm steel/white gold), and 126334 (modern 41mm fluted bezel) are particularly sought after.

Top sizes are 41mm for dramatic presence, 36mm for classic versatility, 31mm for sophisticated elegance, and the classic Lady Datejust at 26mm.

Most of our watches are sold with their original Rolex box and papers, although some earlier models won't be. Complete sets add to collectibility and resale value.

Pre owned gives you access to end of line models, older references, and dial variations not available at retail. And you save retail waiting lists while frequently getting more value for your money.

Vintage ones, such as the 1601, come with acrylic crystals, pie pan dials, and distinct aged character. Contemporary versions such as the 126334 provide sapphire crystals, modern movements, and larger case sizes.

The Rolex Datejust 36 provides traditional, eternal proportions, whereas the Datejust 41 delivers more substantial, stronger wrist presence.

The Datejust only shows the date, whereas the Day Date indicates both the day of the week and the date.

All watches receive a thorough examination by our in-house Rolex trained experts, checking movement, case, dial, bracelet, and serial numbers. Every item is serviced, tested, and warranted genuine.

Yes, there is flexible finance available subject to status. Contact our staff for information and a representative example.

Rolex advises every 5–10 years. We offer professional servicing and upkeep to ensure your Datejust functions perfectly at BQ Watches.

We provide safe and fully insured delivery throughout the UK, with the majority of watches dispatched within 1–2 working days upon confirmation of purchase.

Yes. We offer open buy back options and take trade-ins, which enables collectors to easily upgrade or modify their collection.

The Datejust has been seen on global leaders, artists, and Hollywood stars. Winston Churchill was famously known to wear one, as did Dwight D. Eisenhower. More recently, celebrities such as Roger Federer, Jennifer Aniston, and Rihanna have all been photographed wearing the Datejust.
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