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, and this feature became one of the most recognizable Rolex hallmarks of all.
In 2009, Rolex introduced the Rolex Datejust 36. This line of timepieces offers the features of the original and iconic Rolex Datejust in a more streamlined and modern design and includes new innovations. One of the most significant differences between the previous version and the new one is, of course, the movement - the Datejust 36 has the honor of carrying within it the caliber 3135, made by the brand exclusively for this model - an in-house movement with Paraflex anti-shock protection, a Parachrom hairspring, a COSC certified chronometer with a 48-hour power reserve, operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour.
Not in vain is the Datejust the brand's most popular and recognizable model after the iconic Submariner – and the Datejust 36 allows this popularity to be presented in a contemporary interpretation. This particular timepiece is in the superb and relatively hard-to-find combination – a dark grey dial with diamond markers, rose gold, and an Oyster bracelet.
Indeed, the detail of this watch (as, by the way, with all the modern Rolexes we have had the opportunity to examine) is impressive. A detailed inspection reveals the jewel-like craftsmanship, and the overall impression is very aristocratic. Moving on to the classic sapphire with the "cyclops" – in this case, the brand's highest grade of sapphire is used, which has allowed the overall height of the watch to be reduced compared to its predecessors. Of course, separate attention must be paid to the case and bezel – an incredible combination of brushed highest grade 904L steel with faceted polished edges and details in places (as you know, Rolex pays special attention to the steel used and for this purpose has its own foundries for the production of all its alloys) and 18-carat rose gold. The bezel is fluted, and the fact that it is made of 18-carat gold further reinforces the overall impression! And of course the bracelet, or whatever you may call it – as can be expected from a Rolex, it is truly good... In this case, it is the new bracelet with a solid 18-carat gold center link and a solid clasp, crafted from a single block of steel (and not from bent sheet metal, as is the case with most brands) – the only thing it lacks (but only in my opinion) is the Sub's GlideLock clasp, but here the so-called EasyLink is fitted, which allows for micro-adjustment with an additional 5 mm - 20mm at the lugs, this particular bracelet has 10 links, and will fit a wrist up to 18 cm.