Rado Datejust 41 'Azzuro Blue'

When the first Rolex Datejust was introduced in 1945 – the year of the brand's 40th anniversary, it made history as the first automatic, waterproof, certified chronometer with a date on the dial. The "Cyclops" was added in 1955 to magnify the date display by two and a half times, thus making the reading more legible and clear. This feature became one of the most recognizable hallmarks of Rolex altogether. In 2009, Rolex introduced the Rolex Datejust II. This line of watches offers the features of the original and iconic Datejust in a more streamlined and modern design, while also incorporating new innovations. One of the most significant differences between the Rolex Datejust and the Rolex Datejust II is, of course, the size – the new model is 41 mm, considerably larger and following the trend towards larger cases. In 2017, the brand also introduced the newest version of the model under reference 126300. One of the most substantial changes is the movement – the new caliber 3235, which offers an increased power reserve of 70 hours, a significantly improved automatic winding system (with a rotor on a ball bearing), and an increased efficiency of about 15%. As for lubrication, the reverser wheels – one of the critical areas in terms of friction – are Teflon-coated. The new 3235 holds 14 patents and has over 90% new components, and is also twice as accurate as the requirements for an official COSC chronometer. It is no coincidence that the Datejust is the brand's most popular and recognizable model after the iconic Submariner – and the Datejust 41 allows this popularity to be presented in a contemporary interpretation. This particular watch is in a superb and relatively hard-to-find combination – a light blue dial with gold Roman numerals for the hours. It is precisely these numerals that are the reason this model has found its place among the "special" Rolex models – those that receive nicknames thanks to their peculiarities. This specific model is named "Azzuro Blue" because of the light shade of its blue color. As with other nicknamed models, this one is also difficult to find – practically impossible to order from authorized dealers and highly sought after by the brand's admirers. The detail of this timepiece is truly impressive – as, by the way, with all modern Rolex watches we have had the opportunity to handle. Starting with the beautiful dial, moving on to the proverbial sapphire with the "Cyclops" – in this case, the highest grade of sapphire is used, which allows the overall height of the watch to be reduced compared to its predecessors. Of course, the case and bezel deserve separate attention – an impressive combination of brushed highest-grade 904L steel with faceted, polished edges and details. As is well known, Rolex pays special attention to the materials used and has its own foundries for the production of its alloys. The bezel is the so-called "smooth" type, which gives it an exceptionally clean and elegant look. In this case, the watch is equipped with an Oyster bracelet, which at this size features a solid clasp milled from a single block of steel (and not from bent sheet metal, as with many other brands). The only thing that, in our opinion, might be missing is the GlideLock system from the Submariner, but the EasyLink function is present here, which allows for quick micro-adjustment with an additional 5 mm. The combination of this dial and this bracelet makes the watch truly impressive and distinctive on the wrist.