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The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref 126334 is not for everybody. First of all, it’s a Rolex. A fact that some will take immediate issue with. Second, it looks kind of boring. Like something your father (or his father) would wear. At least at first glance. Gaze a little longer, though, and you will discover the innate value of the Datejust 41. It is the perfect every day watch. Well-balanced. Nicely proportioned. And with enough wrist appeal to turn heads without causing a scene. Don’t take my word for it though. Read on and make up your own mind.

A (Very) Brief History Of The Rolex Datejust

The origins of the Datejust lie in the origins of Rolex itself. In 1905, Hans Wilsdorf founded a company in London. It specialised in the distribution of timepieces. In 1908, he named it Rolex. His primary focus was on chronometric precision. Wilsdorf needed to show people that wrist worn watches could be accurate.

Two years later, in 1910, he took the first major step towards achieving that goal. A Rolex became the first wristwatch to earn the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision. Granted by the Official Watch Rating Centre in Bienne. In 1914, a class “A” precision certificate followed from the Kew Observatory. A distinction previously reserved only for marine chronometers.

The accuracy of his watches established, Wilsdorf turned his mind to further innovations. The next major achievement for Rolex came in 1926. The invention of the world’s first waterproof case for a wristwatch. The Oyster Case. The design calls for the screwing down of the bezel, case back and winding crown against the middle case. A patented system still employed by Rolex today. Albeit with some improvements. Such as the Ringlock System developed for the Deepsea.

So, what does all this have to do with the Datejust? Everything. The model made its debut in 1945 to mark the 40th anniversary of the company’s founding. It was a consolidation of all major innovations from Rolex up until that point. The Datejust was the first self-winding chronometer wristwatch to display the date on the dial. Hence the name. It was also the first such model in a waterproof case.

To give its new model a distinctive look Rolex created a special fluted bezel. Along with a five-piece link metal Jubilee bracelet made specifically for this watch. Both hallmarks of the Datejust today. Ten years later, an instant date-change mechanism was introduced. And a Cyclops lens put in place to magnify the date. And with that, the enduring aesthetic of the Datejust was born.

The Fatal Flaw

The collection has seen many updates over the years, both technical and visual. Still, the fundamental design remains true to the original. That’s what makes it such a recognisable watch.

But for the longest time, the Rolex Datejust 41 had a major drawback. A fatal flaw if you will. The only ‘steel’ option was yellow Rolesor. That’s Rolex speak for a steel bracelet with 18k gold centre links. And a gold fluted bezel and champagne dial. A nice watch no doubt but a little too old-school for my tastes. Although in recent times I must admit two-tone is becoming on trend once again.



That all changed in 2017 though. That’s when the Rolex Datejust 41 became available in a much hipper full steel version. With or without a white gold fluted bezel depending on your preference. In my mind this makes it more wearable on a day-to-day basis. Not to mention a lot more accessible and appealing to a younger audience.

The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref 126334

The Datejust 41 delivers a lot of bang for your buck. This is Rolex after all. As the name suggests, it comes in a 41mm Oyster case. Which is waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet). That’s thanks to the brand’s patented Twinlock double waterproofness system. The winding crown screws down against the case to ensure a secure seal. The crystal, with iconic Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock for easy reading of the date, is sapphire. The middle case is hewn from a solid block of 904L steel.


AT WATCHBOX: check out this pre-owned Rolex Datejust 41 Ref 126334 with black dial available now. (affiliate partner)


There are a number of dial colours and variations to choose from, including; black, dark rhodium, slate, silver, blue and white. There’s even white mother-of-pearl with diamond hour markers if you’re feeling fancy. All are manufactured in house and feature a subtle sun-ray or matt finish. On the non-diamond versions, the hour markers are in 18ct gold to prevent tarnishing. Hands and hour markers are treated with Rolex’s Chromalight display. This ensures long-lasting luminescence. Even in low-light conditions.

Inside is the calibre 3235. This self-winding mechanical movement is developed and manufactured by Rolex. It boasts 14 patents in total, including the Chronergy escapement. This escapement combines high energy efficiency with great dependability. Made of nickel-phosphorus, it is also insensitive to magnetic interference.

New barrel architecture and superior efficiency means a power reserve of 70 hours. The 3235 carries the Superlative Chronometer certification redefined by Rolex in 2015. This means it is very accurate (−2/+2 seconds per day) and reliable.


Rolex Datejust Calibre 3235


The Rolex Datejust 41 comes on either a stainless steel Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. The Jubilee is more historically accurate. But my preference is still for the more modern Oyster bracelet. Both feature the new concealed attachment system beneath the bezel. This allows the bracelet to connect seamlessly into the case. A folding Oysterclasp closes the bracelet. The patented Easylink rapid extension system allows you to increase the bracelet length by up to 5 mm. Perfect for those hot summer afternoons when you need to roll up your shirt-sleeves.

Price and Availability

Official retail price of the Rolex Datejust 41 Ref 126334 is USD 9,650. That’s for the model with the 18ct white gold fluted bezel. My favourite is the blue dial model pictured worn on an Oyster bracelet. But there are so many variations it’s easy to select the perfect choice for you.


Rolex Datejust 41


These are popular watches though. So, finding one in store at an authorized retailer can be tough. They are available on the secondary market too, from sites like WatchBox. Usually at slightly above retail.

Why Is It The Perfect Everyday Watch?

The Rolex Datejust 41 makes a strong yet subtle statement on the wrist. It doesn’t loudly announce its presence like the Day-Date. Nor is it endowed with the refined elegance of the Calatrava. Yet, it looks great with a suit and tie. And, it lets people know you mean business. Although, somehow, not in an arrogant way. Plus, it’s got a real sense of history on its side.



Then, once the working day is done, you can take it with you to the bar. Or the restaurant. Or the gallery opening. Or wherever the night takes you. Outside of a black-tie event, the Rolex Datejust 41 will fit in just about anywhere. And that’s why it is the perfect everyday watch.


Technical Specifications: Rolex Datejust 41 Ref 126334

  • Case: Oyster – 41 mm – Oystersteel or Oystersteel and white gold – monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown – smooth or fluted bezel – waterproof to 100 metres / 330 feet.
  • Dial: Available in several colours – 18ct gold hour markers – Chromalight display with longlasting luminescence on hour markers and hands.
  • Movement: Calibre 3235 – bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor – paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, high-performance paraflex shock absorbers – centre hour, minute and seconds hands – instantaneous date with rapid setting.
  • Price: USD 9,650.

This article by TheWatchLounge has been sponsored by our partner WatchBox.

Tom Mulraney
Tom Mulraney
Founder & Editor
Tom likes to write about luxury watches. So much so, that he created The Watch Lounge just so he would have an outlet for his passion. Together with his team, he is dedicated to bringing you original, entertaining (and maybe even a little educational) luxury watch and lifestyle content.

12 thoughts on “Why The Rolex Datejust 41 Is The Perfect Every Day Watch”

  1. Bertrand Lemieux says:

    Do you know how much magnetism the new 3235 movement can withstand? I have looked for a figure on the internet without success. I am among the minority of mechanical watch lovers that work in a scientific field where I get exposed to magnetic fields. The one Rolex I wear is the Milgauss, but I also wear IWC pilot watches (the little pilot has ~300 to 400 gauss according to rumors…IWC never published figures). I have never magentized either one of these watches. Rolex’s statement on the 3235 movement’s magnetic resistance are vague. I’d like some figures to know if it’s a safe option for me.

  2. Darrell Ducharme says:

    Hi Tom, I have had Rolex genuine watches. Interestingly though the wall seems to be coming down on Rolex. People are now seeing japanese and chinese movements that are steaming along in the Homage market. I purchased the Corguet Homage to Tudor Heritage in Bronze. I believe its been two years runs well. A simple rotor noise. Also the big players as Patek, Hublot, IWC etc have now taken the big players market. Look at Panerai. Then there is documentation floating around about the 40% of rolex parts made in Asia. Just part of a lot of information that asks the question about Rolex being all hand made. To me they are iconic but icons can be abused from within and afar.

  3. wayne silva says:

    I own a date just 41. all steel with a smooth bezel. it is tastefully done. the 41 is not to big for
    me at all being up in my 60s i can see the time just fine. other than the crown being to small,
    i am very happy. no need to trade it in.

  4. Michael Chang says:

    Bought my very first Datejust back 1986 in Singapore, it was a two toned Thunderbird with gold Roman numerals, Jubilee bracelet, paid about US $2,500. Sold it in 2003 for $2,400, needed finds to buy a Breguet # 5920.
    Over the years I had several other Rolex models but ended up with a GMT, black ceramic bezel as the only one.
    I miss my Thunderbird/Turnograph!!!

  5. Whitney Swan says:

    Thank you soooooomuch for all the information presented to us . I am presently searching for xtra links for my 18k. Gold two tone bracelet. Thanks again and may God continue pouring out His Blessings upon you

  6. Peter Di Cecco says:

    7/28/20
    Hello Tom. I read your article and found it to be fascinating to learn about the history of the Rolex. I have found when reading articles on the internet a good grasp of the English language is usually a good indicator of a reliable source concerning the facts in the article.

    Your article is indeed educational, entertaining and a good source for a novice as myself. I was searching the internet for reliable information about the Rolex Datejust 41 Ref 126334 and I found your article. I must say it is a lifesaver and had the specific information I was looking for from a reliable source.

    I first noticed the beauty of the watch while assisting my mom at a Mercedes dealer a few years back and our salesman was wearing one. I am presently looking for this watch with the silver index dial, 18 ct. white gold fluted bezel, and jubilee bracelet.

    If I may impose upon you to ask some questions –
    1. You indicated a USD of $ 9350.00 – Is this a current price on the above referenced watch (new) in today’s market?

    2. In your article you mentioned that the manufacture date of this particular watch was 2017. So, In my research I now know to look for this model or new if available.

    3. Is there typically much price difference between a used 2017 – 2019 model and a new one?

    4. I believe that I should request for the C.O.A. with the serial no. to verify authenticity inside the dial on a used watch – correct?

    5. Any tips on a good place to look in the Houston,TX area? I have a high end jeweler where I purchased my wife’s diamond ring who sells watches, and a trusted and well established coin and jewelry dealer who might be a good starting point — any thoughts?

    6. Last question – I noted one seller online in Glendale, CA was offering a 5 year warranty on New Rolex Datejust 41 mm on an oyster bracelet above $10 K. I was unsure of the manufacturer warranty on a new watch? What is the minimum warranty of a used one I should anticipate?

    I hope that I have not been overboard on the questions but enjoy gleaning information from people who are in the know. Equipping myself with the knowledge will certainly protect my interests when purchasing the watch. Thanks for a well written article as it is greatly appreciated.

    Sincerely,
    Peter

  7. Jonathan Slark says:

    Great article! I totally agree with everything you explained. I just purchased a Datejust 41 with the fluted bezel and blue face with the oyster bracelet! It looks so classy with a dress shirt, yet sporty enough to wear with shorts and flip flops and I can go swimming with it! Perfect! The AD had just gotten the watch the day before I purchased and the morning of purchase 3 other people were waiting to buy it if I did not. So happy I did!
    Thank you for all your research, knowledge and opinions!

    Jonathan Slark

  8. Kenneth soderlind says:

    My favorite watch – stainless steel watch was purchased back in 1972.

  9. Larry says:

    About to buy my first Rolex. I’m 55.

    Deciding between the above Datejust 41 blue dial oysterstrap, exact same w black dial, or submariner 41 black dial oyster strap?

    Thoughts?

  10. antonio hernandez says:

    Hi Tom, I also think the Rolex 123664 is a nice watch. https://watchaholic.com/rolex/oyster_perpetual_datejust/126334.watch. I think prices seem to hold up and it looks like they are consistently bringing about $10,000 auction, based on the aggregated auction results from Watchcolic https://watchaholic.com/rolex/oyster_perpetual_datejust/126334.watch. I always like to look at trends and see what they are selling on average to get an idea of what its worth and how prices have performed in the past few years. Great post. Thank you, Antonio

  11. Mike Hirthler says:

    Curious, just ordered a black, jubilee DJ41, and one thing I was most excited about was wearing it for black tie, more formal events and I noticed you stated that is the one thing it does not make sense for. What makes more sense for something like that? black leather? a larger watch? just curious! thanks. -Mike

  12. Mike says:

    Pretty sure “slate” and “dark rhodium” dials are the exact same thing, but a great watch for sure.

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