Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Two-Tone Wristwatch
Jewelry / Luxury Watch · Rolex; founded in 1905, based in Geneva, Switzerland. Renowned for pioneering waterproof and automatic chronometer-grade watches, holding a premier status in luxury horology.
Pattern: Datejust Collection; first introduced in 1945. Features the 'Rolesor' design (combination of steel and gold) with a fluted bezel and Oyster or Jubilee bracelet.
Type
Jewelry / Luxury Watch
Maker
Rolex; founded in 1905, based in Geneva, Switzerland. Renowned for pioneering waterproof and automatic chronometer-grade watches, holding a premier status in luxury horology.
Material
Two-Tone (Rolesor): typically 904L Stainless Steel for the case and outer bracelet links, and 18k Yellow Gold for the fluted bezel, crown, and center bracelet links. Dial features luminescent or applied markers.
Dimensions
Standard ladies' or mid-size variant (approx. 26mm to 31mm diameter); standard bracelet length; weight is typically substantial due to high-density steel and gold (approx. 50-90g depending on size).
Description
This iconic timepiece represents the quintessential luxury watch. The Rolex Datejust in Rolesor (steel and gold) is a masterclass in versatility, blending rugged durability with high-society elegance. The black dial with gold Roman numerals provides a sharp, sophisticated contrast, while the fluted gold bezel serves as the brand's most recognizable architectural signature.
Key Features
Oyster waterproof case, fluted gold bezel, Cyclops magnifying lens, 18k yellow gold center links, and the chronometer-certified automatic movement.
Material & Composition
Two-Tone (Rolesor): typically 904L Stainless Steel for the case and outer bracelet links, and 18k Yellow Gold for the fluted bezel, crown, and center bracelet links. Dial features luminescent or applied markers.
Finish & Decoration
Polished and brushed finishes; iconic fluted bezel in yellow gold; sunbeam or matte black dial; applied gold Roman numerals; Cyclops magnifying lens over the date window; Oyster-style link bracelet.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Rolex Crown logo on dial and crown; dial text: 'Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified' and 'Swiss Made'; Serial and model numbers would be engraved between the lugs (visible only if bracelet is removed). Metal fineness marks on the clasp.
Construction Details
Precision-machined Oyster case (monobloc middle case); screw-down case back and winding crown (Twinlock system); integration of diverse metallurgical components for durability and luxury.
Functional Features
Waterproof Oyster case; mechanical self-winding movement; instantaneous date change at midnight; central hour, minute, and second hands; date display with 2.5x magnification.
Handle & Grip Details
Folding Oysterclasp or Crownclasp for secure fastening; yellow gold screw-down winding crown (corrugated for grip) for setting time and date.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional precision-engineered tolerances; 18k gold components are cast in Rolex's own foundry; movements are COSC certified for extreme accuracy under various conditions.
Authentication Indicators
The dial printing appears aligned, and the cyclops lens shows magnification; however, the bezel texture and gold wear require close-up verification. The weight, movement sound (sweeping seconds hand vs. ticking), and serial number location are primary indicators.
Origin & Manufacturing
Swiss-made (Bienne and Geneva); manufactured using specialized high-grade robotics and hand-assembly by master watchmakers in Rolex’s vertically integrated facilities.
Era & Period
Modern Luxury Era (Late 20th - Early 21st Century); follows the design language established by the mid-century Datejust models with modern manufacturing precision.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990s-2010s; based on the Roman numeral dial configuration, thickness of the lugs, and the style of the fluted bezel.
Cultural Significance
A global symbol of success and milestone achievement; the Datejust transformed the watch from a mere tool into a piece of status-defining jewelry.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; visible surface scratches on the steel links and gold center links; slight dulling of the gold bezel facets suggest wear from use; the crystal appears to have some surface debris or light scratching.
Value Estimate
$4,000 - $8,500 USD (pre-owned) depending on the exact model number (e.g., 69173 vs 179173), movement condition, and presence of original box/papers.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft microfiber brush; ensure the crown is screwed down tight before exposure to water; service every 10 years; store in a padded watch box away from magnetic fields.
Similar Pieces
Rolex Day-Date (similar look but only in solid gold/platinum with day display); Tudor Glamour Date (sister brand alternative); Cartier Santos (square alternative with similar steel/gold heritage).
Interesting Facts
The Datejust was the first self-winding wrist chronometer to display the date in a window on the dial. It was famously worn by several US Presidents and film icons, cementing its status as the 'prestige watch'.