Rolex Watches – Day-Date vs

1. Rolex Watches – Day-Date vs. Datejust Models The Datejust and Day-Date are two of the most famous Rolex watches in the brand’s history. Both are known for their brilliant craftsmanship, elegance, robust styling, and polished appearance – they are the epitome of functional Swiss watchmaking. Over the years, these Rolex watches have received plenty of upgrades, with the Day-Date being the flagship premium model, while living up to its “President” nickname, and the Datejust being an accessible Rolex watch with several variations for everyone. In this article, we cover the difference between both models in a comprehensive manner – read on!

2. The Day-Date First introduced in 1956, the Day-Date quickly became known as the “President”, because in 1965, Lyndon B Johnson, the then-President of the United States of America, along with many world leaders, proudly flaunted this gorgeous piece. Initially, all of the Day-Date Presidential Models 1803 reference used non-quickset 1555 movements which could be used to manually change either the day or date; you need to rotate the hands 24 hours in order to change them. In the late 70s, these Rolex watches featured a single quickset movement 3055 for the 18038 reference models, which let the user adjust the date independently from the time. But a decade later, the company created the double quickset movement 3155 for the 18238 reference models which allowed the wearer to conveniently change both the day and date independently from the time. This Rolex watch was the first of its kind to introduce the hidden Crownclasp – a concealed clasp that made the bracelet appear seamless, while a raised coronet marked its closing point. Features: ● The day of the week is displayed at 12 o’ clock and the date is engraved at 3 o’ clock. ● Crafted only from precious metals like platinum or yellow, white, and Everose gold. ● The iconic bracelet is characterized with its semi-circular three-piece links - a signature feature. ● The Tridor model from this collection features yellow, white, and rose gold together in a singular timepiece. Renowned Day-Date Models Apart from the “President’s Watch”, there are other versions of the Rolex watch that have been re-imagined through different models:

3. ● Day-Date Ref. 6510 and 6511 – These Rolex watches are the original models from 1956 that feature smooth and fluted bezels. They were the first to display both day and date in full. ● Day-Date II (41mm) – The largest version of the President’s watch was launched in 2008, but discontinued in 2015. ● Rolex Stella Dial Models – These are known for their bold lacquered dials in vibrant colors. Consider yourself lucky if you manage to get your hands on one! ● Rolex Day-Date “Rainbow” Editions – These are limited edition timepieces designed using multi-colored gem-set bezels that are rare and dazzling. The Datejust The Datejust model is one of the most sold models till date. It was launched back in 1945 to commemorate 40 years of the Rolex brand and was an instant hit with its sleek style and classy appeal. The traditional look of the Jubilee bracelet was an immediate success for the brand and has been continued to this day. The Datejust was initially used with a non-quick 1570 movement with the date changing at midnight or requiring the user to rotate the hands 24 hours to manually change it. However, in 1977, Rolex came up with the 3035 movement so the user can manually change the date independently. This movement was replaced by the non-quickset 1570 movement in the 34mm and 36mm Datejust models. Features: ● The date is engraved at the 3 o’ clock window. ● The Twinlock system makes the seal for the winding crown, doubly waterproof ● It was the first time a date function was introduced on a self-winding watch. ● Created in stunning combinations of steel and gold. ● As mentioned, the iconic Jubilee bracelet is one of the trademark bracelets of this model. It features a five-piece link

4. construction, ensuring flexibility without compromising on sophistication. Famous Datejust Rolex Watches Datejust models have been worn by numerous celebrities and icons such as Matthew McConaughey in The Wolf of Wall Street, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Michael Jordan, and Winston Churchill. ● Datejust 126231 – It is referred to as the “Wimbledon” model, because it marked the collaboration of the brand with the legendary tennis player, Roger Federer. The Rolex watch paired a steel and rose gold case with a slate-grey dial and green Roman numerals. It had a sporty vibe, but was elegant as well. ● Datejust 126200 – The Palm Dial Datejust features an olive-green, palm-leaf-patterned dial and gives off a playful vibe. ● Rolex Thunderbird – Rolex decided to incorporate a Turn-O-Graph bezel to the Datejust in the 1950s, thus creating the “Thunderbird”. It became the official watch of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds squadron. ● Datejust 278289RBR – If you prefer a hint of sparkle in your watch, opt for this timepiece with diamond hour markers and a mother-of-pearl dial. It is one of the most striking Rolex watches. Rolex Datejust vs. Rolex Day-Date Function and Design The functional design is what distinguishes the two from each other. The Datejust comes with a date display and Cyclops lens for better legibility. The overall look is subtle, yet elegant.

5. The Rolex Day-Date comes with a Cyclops lens too, but adds a day complication to its display, spelling out the day of the week in full. Materials The Datejust models come in a variety of sizes, and in beautiful combinations of steel gold, and Rolesor (half-steel, half-gold/904L steel and 18ct gold). The diversity ensures these Rolex watches appeal to a wider audience. On the other hand, The Day-Date takes exclusivity to another level, crafted solely from precious metals. This includes 18k yellow, white, and Everose gold, along with platinum, emphasizing its status as a flagship model. Using the finest of materials, the watch exudes a refined aura, while solidifying its stature as an eye-catching timepiece. Bracelet Options The Datejust is commonly paired with the Oyster or Jubilee bracelet, each providing a different look and feel. The Jubilee bracelet, with its five-piece link design, offers a dressier appearance, while the Oyster bracelet leans towards a sportier feel. The Day-Date is known for the trademark President Bracelet, a solid gold bracelet that has created its distinctive identity over the years. The semi-circular, three-piece links offer a unique combination of comfort and luxury. Styling Options The Datejust comes with more styling options as compared to the Day-Date. It is presently available in sizes like 28mm, 31mm, 36mm, or 41mm. The Datejust gives potential customers a huge range to choose from, enabling anyone to find the watch that fits them perfectly.

6. The Day-Date was only available as a 36mm model, up until the 2000s, when the company released a special collection called the Masterpiece. It came with signature Day-Date dials, Pearlmaster bracelets, and 39mm cases. The series was discontinued after a decade. As mentioned, the 41mm Rolex Day-Date II was launched in 2008, but it got replaced after a few years with the 40mm Day-Date. Pricing Since the Rolex Day-Date is made using the premium quality materials, and has an extra functionality, its prices have long raced past the Datejust. For instance, a steel 36 mm model can be purchased between $7000 and $8000. The cheapest Day-Date is about five times that! You have to keep the maintenance expenses in mind too. The Day-Date is more complex in its design and movement, so servicing will be longer and more expensive. Replacement parts are also something you have to consider. A gold bracelet will stretch sooner than a steel one, and is bound to need overhauling at some point. Newer Rolex watches are definitely costlier than their vintage counterparts. You can get a vintage Day-Date, with its eponymous President bracelet, in great condition for less than around $10,000. A Rolesor Datejust can be bought for under $5,000, complete with its five-link Jubilee band. So which Rolex watch should you buy? Both Rolex watches - Datejust and the Day-Date are fine examples of the brand’s mastery in watchmaking, and wonderfully cater to different tastes, lifestyles, and budgets. The Datejust offers versatility and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for daily wear. The Day-Date, with its prestigious materials and additional day

7. complication, exudes a luxurious feel and is designed for those who want nothing but the best. The number of different dials, bracelets, and bezel combinations available on both Rolex watches is staggering. You can customize each timepiece to align with your tastes, while enhancing the Rolex aesthetic. When it comes to making the ultimate choice, there is no right answer as it depends upon your budget, preferences, etc. The Day-Date President is the ultimate symbol of prestige and privilege, while the Datejust is the more laid-back option for those looking to wear a timepiece regularly that is long-lasting. But there are luxurious versions of the Datejust as well, crafted in precious metals and embellished with diamonds. To put it in a nutshell, both Day-Date and Datejust watches are absolute masterpieces, showcasing Rolex’s genius for design and that unmistakable blend of style and functionality. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and start checking out those lovely and magnificent Rolex watches!