When the first Rolex Datejust was introduced in 1945 – the year of the brand's 40th anniversary – it made history as the first self-winding, waterproof, officially certified chronometer wristwatch with a date display on the dial. The Cyclops lens was added in 1953 to magnify the date two and a half times, making it considerably clearer and easier to read. This feature would eventually become one of the most recognizable trademarks of Rolex.
In 2004, Rolex introduced the updated generation of the Datejust 36. This collection offers the characteristics of the original and iconic Rolex Datejust in a cleaner, more modern design, while incorporating a number of improvements. One of its most important features is, of course, the movement – the Datejust 36 houses the time-proven calibre 3135, an in-house Rolex automatic movement with COSC certification, a 48-hour power reserve, and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. The movement is renowned for its reliability, precision, and robust construction, making it one of the most successful calibres in the brand's history.
It is no coincidence that the Datejust is the brand's most popular and recognizable model after the legendary Submariner – and the Datejust 36 allows this popularity to be expressed through a contemporary interpretation. This particular watch is one of those models whose combination of a fluted bezel, Oyster bracelet, and rhodium-grey dial featuring a wavy "Rolex" inscription pattern and oversized "6" and "9" numerals set with high-quality diamonds makes it particularly rare and highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of the brand.
The attention to detail on this watch (as indeed on all modern Rolex watches we have had the opportunity to present) is truly impressive. Starting with the incredible dial (in this case, a silver-grey colour featuring the distinctive wave decoration and diamonds), which, when viewed from certain angles, almost seems to disappear – creating the impression that the hands and hour markers are somehow suspended in mid-air, completely weightless. Moving on to the classic sapphire crystal featuring the Cyclops magnifier – in this case, a high-quality, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal provides excellent legibility and protection for the dial. Naturally, special attention should also be paid to the case and bezel – a combination of top-grade brushed 904L stainless steel with beautifully polished bevelled edges and carefully finished details (as you probably know, Rolex pays particular attention to the steel it uses and even operates its own foundries for the production of its alloys). The bezel is the classic fluted variety, crafted from 18-carat white gold, giving the watch an incredible appearance and a truly striking presence on the wrist. And, of course, the bracelet, band, strap, or whatever you prefer to call it – as one would expect from a Rolex, it is genuinely excellent... In this case, we have an Oyster bracelet with solid links and a robust clasp crafted from solid steel (rather than folded sheet metal, as is the case with many other brands). The only thing it lacks (although perhaps only in our opinion) is the Glidelock clasp found on the Submariner, although it does feature the Easylink system, allowing an additional 5 mm of quick adjustment. The lug width is 20 mm.
