When you think of Rolex, there’s a good chance the Oyster Perpetual Datejust is the watch that comes to mind - even if you didn’t know its name. It’s the classic. The one that’s been around since 1945, always evolving, but never losing the DNA that makes it instantly recognisable.
Why does it matter? Because the Datejust was the first automatic wristwatch to feature a date that changed all on its own at midnight. A small detail, sure, but one that basically rewrote what a modern wristwatch should do.
The secret to the Datejust’s success is that it’s not tied to one specific look. Instead, it’s a canvas. Over the years, Rolex has offered it in 36mm and 41mm sizes (and smaller for those who prefer it). It comes in steel, steel and gold (Rolesor, in Rolex-speak), or full gold if you’re feeling bold.
The bezel options alone offer distinct styles to suit different tastes::
The Datejust wouldn’t be the Datejust without the Jubilee bracelet, introduced alongside the watch back in 1945 to celebrate Rolex’s 40th anniversary. Its signature five-link design is instantly recognisable, offering a balance of elegance and comfort that has made it a favourite for decades.
The polished centre links add a subtle touch of brilliance, while the curved profile ensures it wears smoothly on the wrist.
On the flip side, the Oyster bracelet - with its broader three-link construction - leans more towards a sporty, contemporary aesthetic. It’s robust, streamlined, and pairs especially well with the larger 41mm Datejust models.
In short: Jubilee if you want timeless sophistication, Oyster if you want modern versatility. You really can’t go wrong, as both bracelets highlight the Datejust’s ability to move seamlessly from formal occasions to everyday wear.
Inside today’s Datejust models is Rolex’s Calibre 3235, a movement that represents the brand’s latest generation of watchmaking technology.
At its core is the Chronergy escapement, an innovation that improves efficiency while remaining highly resistant to magnetic interference - something increasingly important in our gadget-filled world. The calibre also boasts a 70-hour power reserve, meaning you can take it off on Friday evening and it will still be ticking by Monday morning.
Add to that Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer certification, guaranteeing precision within +2/-2 seconds per day, and you have a movement engineered not just for performance, but for a lifetime of daily wear.
Who doesn't? That’s the thing - it’s universal. World leaders, athletes, actors, and everyday people have all gravitated to it. Winston Churchill was famously gifted a gold Datejust. Martin Luther King Jr. wore one while making history.
Fast-forward, and you’ll find it on the wrist of Roger Federer at Wimbledon or a creative in Soho who inherited theirs from a parent. The Datejust doesn’t need celebrity endorsements to prove its status - it has always spoken for itself.
The appeal lies in its timelessness. The Datejust isn’t about chasing hype; it’s about consistency, refinement, and the quiet confidence of knowing your watch is as relevant today as it was 50 years ago - and as it will still be 50 years from now. It bridges generations, effortlessly adapting to styles and eras while remaining unmistakably Rolex.
In an era of limited editions and waiting lists that feel like winning the lottery, the Datejust, is refreshing. It’s not some obscure reference you’ll never see in the wild, nor is it hyped into oblivion by short-term trends.
Instead, it’s a cornerstone of Rolex’s catalogue - a model that has been continuously produced for nearly 80 years because people genuinely want to wear it. Unlike watches that are collected to be flipped or stored away, the Datejust is meant to be lived in, whether that’s at the office, on holiday, or passed down to the next generation. It’s a Rolex you can walk into a boutique and realistically hope to find, a luxury that still feels attainable and welcoming.
It doesn’t scream for attention, but it makes a quiet, enduring statement. That’s the magic of the Datejust - substance over hype, timeless design over fleeting trends, and an identity rooted in consistency rather than scarcity.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust is proof that you don’t need gimmicks or hype to make a watch iconic. With its mix of versatility, technical chops, and timeless design, it’s one of the few watches that looks just as good at a black-tie dinner as it does with jeans and trainers.
It’s a watch that transitions effortlessly from formal events to casual weekends, always looking equally at home.
Discover our carefully curated selection of Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust watches, ready for next-day delivery with no waiting lists. If the exact model you’re seeking isn’t listed online, our team can source it specially for you. For a truly personalised experience, we invite you to visit our luxury showroom, where you can explore our collection up close and receive expert guidance in selecting the perfect Datejust.
Let us help you find your perfect timepiece. If you don’t see it online, simply get in touch using the form below, and one of our specialist team members will be delighted to source it for you.
