When the first Rolex Datejust was introduced in 1945 – the year of the brand's 40th anniversary – it made history as the first automatic water-resistant certified chronometer with a date on the dial. The "Cyclops" was added in 1955 to visually magnify the date 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 time.
In 2009, Rolex introduced the Datejust II. 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 Rolex Datejust and the Rolex Datejust II is, of course, the size – the new one is 41 mm, significantly larger and following the trend for larger watch cases. The other difference is the movement – the Datejust II has the honor of carrying the caliber 3136, made by the brand exclusively for this model – an in-house movement with Paraflex anti-shock protection, a Parachrom hairspring, a COSC certified chronometer, a 48-hour power reserve, and a frequency of 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 II allows this popularity to be presented in a contemporary interpretation. This particular watch is in a very rare and hard-to-find combination – a blue dial with hour markers.
Indeed, the detail on this timepiece (as, by the way, on all modern Rolexes we have had the opportunity to examine) is impressive. Starting with the incredible dial in a rich blue color and the luminescent coating in the brand's specific Chromalight. A detailed look reveals the jewel-like craftsmanship, and the overall impression is very aristocratic.
Moving on to the incredible 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 the bezel – an incredible combination of brushed highest-grade 904L steel and solid 18-carat gold, 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.
The bezel is the brand's characteristic "fluted" style, which gives an incredible radiance and has nothing in common with the other Datejust II with the "smooth" bezel – they are simply different watches. This one has a killer presence on your wrist, and the fact that the bezel is 18-carat gold further reinforces the overall impression.
And of course – the bracelet. 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, not from bent sheet metal as with most brands. The only thing it lacks (but only in our opinion) is the Glidelock clasp from the Sub, but here the so-called Easylink is fitted, which allows for micro-adjustment with an additional 5–20 mm at the lugs. This particular bracelet has 11 links and will fit a wrist up to 19.5 cm.
Truly, the timepiece is impressive and carries the classic Rolex style with the precious materials used – because in this watch, everything that is yellow is gold – the fluted bezel and the fact that it is a true Datejust.
