Rolex Date

A slightly smaller version of the iconic Rolex Datejust with a case diameter of 34mm, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date is one of the most classic Rolex models in the brand's catalog. With hundreds of different variations, the pre-owned Rolex Date can be some of the more affordable used Rolex watches on the market. Very similar to a Rolex Datejust in its overall aesthetics, the Date model was one of the first watches in history to display a date on the dial, and remains a popular choice among those who enjoy the styling of the classic Datejust, but want something slightly more compact on the wrist.

Used Rolex Date watches represent some of the best values for money on the secondary market, often selling for noticeably less than their larger counterparts, despite being powered by the same movements and offering identical functionality. Along with the 34mm Date model for men, Rolex also made smaller editions including the midsize Oyster Perpetual Date 31 and the ladies’ Oyster Perpetual Date 26. However, Rolex has since discontinued making these smaller Oyster Perpetual Date versions to focus on the similar Datejust 31 and Lady-Datejust 28 instead. 

The manufacturing of every Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watch follows a long Rolex tradition, steeped in advanced technological processes and high-tech material research. The first Oyster watch was developed in the 1920's and delivered to the watchmaking industry the first ever waterproof wristwatch.

When Rolex added a ‘Perpetual’ rotor to the design in 1931, it shaped the way in which the manufacturer created most of their timepieces that followed. The flexibly-mounted rotor which consists of a metal weight, winds the watch up as it moves with the motion of the wearer’s arm. Rolex then went on to add more innovative features to this archetypal design, like the date feature in a window at 3 o’clock - a concept introduced for the very first time in 1945 with the debut of the Rolex Oyster Datejust watch.

A 34mm Rolex watch

The popularity of the Datejust carried on into the 1950s, leading Rolex to create other sizes of its classic date-displaying wristwatch. To accompany the standard 36mm model, Rolex released the Date with a case diameter of 34mm during the mid 1950s. Early Rolex watches that came with the “Oyster Perpetual Date” text on the dial included references 6530, 6534, 6535, and 6537. (These models followed the transitional reference ref. 6518 that had come out a few years prior, which has a variety of names on the dial including “Oysterdate Perpetual” or “Oyster Perpetual.”) 

These vintage Oyster Perpetual watches sported 34mm cases, available in steel, gold, and two-tone configurations. Furthermore, bezel styles ranged from simple domed to decorative engine-turned to ornate fluted. Dial designs also varied, frequently featuring Alpha hands and faceted triangular hour markers. Furthermore, many examples feature the “Roulette” date wheel, characterized by a mix of red and black numerals. Since the Oyster Perpetual Date watches ran on the same Caliber 1035 movement as the Datejust watches of the era, the date window was also instantaneous—meaning it jumps to the next date at midnight rather than a slow roll. Furthermore, the Date also includes the same Cyclops date magnification lens that protrudes from the crystal. 

Additional Case Sizes

In the 1960s, Rolex rolled out a crop of midsize 31mm and ladies’ sized 26mm time and date watches in a variety of metals, bezels, and dials. Confusingly, some of these references can either include “Datejust” or “Date” on the dial with no obvious reasoning as to why. Rolex no longer makes Date watches in 31mm or 26mm sizes, only retaining the 34mm size. 

Produced in a variety of different materials and configurations throughout its history, the Rolex Date with a 34mm case has remained a constant presence within Rolex’s lineup since the mid-1950s, and has been the go-to option for those who wanted a slightly smaller version of Rolex’s most iconic design.

Pre-owned discontinued Rolex Date models can start at just under $3,000 and typically top out at around $5,000 for full steel editions. Generally speaking, older Rolex Date models are less expensive than their newer counterparts; however the type of metal also plays a huge factor when determining the price of a used Rolex Date watch from a discontinued generation.

While all modern Rolex Date watches are either full stainless steel or stainless steel and white gold, Rolex previously offered the Date collection in both two-tone and solid gold configurations. Due to the premium nature of their materials, it is these precious metal Rolex Date watches that are often the most expensive on the pre-owned market. Yellow gold Rolex Date watches in the secondary market range from about $4,995 for model on leather straps to $11,995 for ones with matching gold bracelets, which is significantly less than the cost of other full gold Rolex watches.

How much is a Rolex Day-Date?

• While their names are similar, there is a huge price difference between the Rolex Date and the Rolex Day-Date. Retail prices for the Rolex Date start out at $6,500, while the least expensive Day-Date watch retails for $33,150. Additionally, while the vast majority of Rolex Date watches are constructed from stainless steel, the Rolex Day-Date is exclusively construed from precious metals.

Case and bezel

Although Rolex Date models today are manufactured only in 34mm cases, their materials, finishes and dials can be enjoyed in a variety of different ways. The case of a Rolex Date watch is designed with values of simplicity and solidity in mind. With a waterproof capability of 100 meters guaranteed and a middle case crafted exclusively from corrosion-resistant Oystersteel (a material from the 904L steel family, commonly used in the aerospace and chemical industry for its highly corrosion-resistant qualities) - these wristwatches answer the needs of those looking for a robust and sporty wristwatch for everyday wear.

The fluted caseback of a Rolex Date watch is hermetically sealed, creating a watertight structure. A patented Twinlock crown helps protects the movement from dust, moisture, pressure, and impact. 

Some Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watches are fitted with fluted bezels, others are smooth. There are currently two Rolex Date models in production. One is the full stainless steel Date ref. 115200 with a smooth domed bezel (Rolex did also make the steel Date ref. 115210 with an engine-turned bezel but dropped it from the catalog after only a few years of production). The other is the Date ref. 115234 topped with an 18k white gold fluted bezel. 18k white gold fluted bezels combined with an Oystersteel case, known as the White Rolesor versions, can be accompanied by dials with diamond indexes, raising their value considerably - others feature classic baton indexes for a more understated look. A sapphire crystal is sealed onto the front of the case, and like its larger sibling, the crystal on the Rolex Date is fitted with the brand’s signature Cyclops magnification lens.

Movement

Rolex Oyster Perpetual watches with date complications are equipped with different movements than their non-date counterparts. The Rolex Caliber 3135 is a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured in-house by Rolex, and it is the engine used to power the current generation of Rolex Date watches.

The certified Swiss chronometer has passed the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) tests and is fitted with a Parachrom hairspring for enhanced resistance to shock and temperature variations. Its Perpetual rotor automatically winds the engine through natural arm movements, providing a 48-hour power reserve and performing at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour.

Dial

One of the key dial features of the Rolex Date watch is its magnified date lens, created by a convex curve of sapphire crystal glass above the date window at 3 o’clock. This Cyclops lens enhances the wearer’s view of the numerals within the date window by 2.5 times, becoming a distinguishable feature of this line of Rolex watches since the 1940's.

As of 2020, Rolex Date dials are available in pink, blue, silver, and classic black, and the date apertures are dressed against a striking white background to enhance legibility. The use of white gold and diamonds for the hour markers on Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watches increase their value significantly. You can get a dial with either chunky baton indexes or with a diamond and Arabic numerals. In the non-diamond variations, the batons are crafted from white gold to prevent them from tarnishing. If you opt for the diamond & Arabic mixed dial, you’ll see that the diamonds represent the odd numbers around the hour track and the Arabic numerals present the even numbers.

Bracelet

Modern Rolex Oyster Date watches are exclusively fitted on the iconic Oyster bracelet; however, older models can sometimes be found on Jubilee bracelets, particularly the models crafted from solid gold or two-tone. The instantly recognizable flat three-piece link design of the Oyster bracelet is tailored to sculpt effortlessly to the contours of the wearer’s wrist for optimum comfort. The bracelet was first introduced in the 1930’s and has become noteworthy for its mix of brushed and polished surfaces, as well as its refined Oysterclasp for a secure fit on the wrist.

The bracelets of current-production Date watches also come fitted with the folding Oysterclasp furnished with the practical Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link to allow wearer to micro-adjust the length of the bracelet without the need for any tools.

In the past, the Rolex Date was produced in a variety of different materials, including solid gold, two-tone steel and gold, and plain stainless steel versions. However, as of 2020, Rolex now only offers the Date model in either full stainless steel, or White Rolesor - a stainless steel watch and bracelet, fitted with an 18k white gold fluted bezel.

Due to the intrinsic costs of the different metals used for the construction of Rolex Date watches, stainless steel Rolex Date watches are less expensive than those equipped with an 18ct white gold bezel, and prices increase from there with the addition of a diamond dial.

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watches are incredibly good value for money, and represent some of the most affordable used Rolex watches on the pre-owned market. Older models crafted entirely from 14k gold represent some of the cheapest solid gold Rolex watches available, and are becoming increasingly desirable among collectors as they are no longer in production. Additionally, since Rolex now only offers the Date in either stainless steel or White Rolesor, the only way of buying a solid gold or two-tone Rolex Date watch is on the secondary market.

The Rolex Date came to market a few years after the Datejust. Both offer an automatically changing date display on the dial, a waterproof Oyster case, and a self-winding Perpetual movement. What sets the two models apart is the size of the case. The traditional Datejust measures 36mm in diameter, while the Date measures 34mm in diameter. The Rolex Date is a popular choice among many collectors for its modest versatile size and weight, along with its classic dress watch styling.

Popular editions on the pre-owned Rolex market include the ref. 115234, which pairs a resilient 904L-grade Oystersteel case and bracelet with an 18k white gold fluted bezel. This metal finish is known as White Rolesor and is highly sought-after among collectors of all budgets. It offers the luxury of a gold Rolex without the top-tier price of a solid gold watch. The ref. 115234 is also COSC chronometer-rated and features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a double-sealed Twinlock screw-down crown. For fans of stainless steel Roex watches, the modern Date ref. 115200 is a popular option thanks to its understated style, restrained proportions, and relatively affordability. 

For those looking for a good deal, the Date ref. 152xx generation offers plenty in the value proposition department. Introduced in 1988, this Date reference family includes modern touches like sapphire crystal and Caliber 3135, along with plenty of material and style options. There’s the full steel Date ref. 15200 with a smooth bezel, the full steel Date ref. 15210 with an engine-turned bezel, the two-tone steel and yellow gold Date ref. 15223, and the full yellow gold Date ref. 15238.

Another popular choice among Rolex enthusiasts is the ref. 15037. This edition is a vintage Rolex Date model that features a timeless yellow gold case and bracelet paired with an acrylic crystal. It exudes a certain vintage appeal that many of today's collectors seek.

Perhaps the most collectible Rolex Date watch of them all is the Rolex ref. 1530, which is unlike any other reference that shares the same name. Produced from 1975 until 1977, the Date ref. 1530 actually utilizes the case and bracelet of the Oysterquartz—a quartz Rolex watch collection that would only make its debut in 1977. In contrast to traditional Date watches, the Date 1530 includes an angular-shaped 36mm case and an integrated bracelet. 

Regardless of the specific reference, the Oyster Perpetual Date offers an appealing combination of recognizable Rolex design traits with a price tag that is significantly less than its more famous sibling, the Datejust. 

What is the Difference between the Rolex Date and Datejust?

• The Rolex Date measures 34mm in diameter, while the size of the traditional Datejust is 36mm. Although functionality is identical for Rolex Date and Datejust models of the same generation, the Datejust is available with significantly more options in regards to size, bezel, dial, bracelet, and materials, and is priced higher than the Rolex Date. The current entry-level retail price of a full stainless steel Datejust 36 is $7,050 while the Date equivalent is $6,500. The current generation of Datejust watches run on the newer Caliber 3235 with an improved power reserve rating of 70 hours. Conversely, the Date watches are equipped with Caliber 3135, which supplies the watch with 48 hours of power reserve. 

What is the cheapest Rolex?

• Among the all the Rolex models that are currently in production, the cheapest Rolex is the Oyster Perpetual; however, the Rolex Date is the second least expensive Rolex watch collection available, with prices starting at $6,500 when purchased at retail. With that in mind, the Rolex Date is the cheapest Rolex watch with a date display among the models in the brand's current catalog. The standard 36mm Rolex Datejust in stainless steel is priced slightly higher than the slightly smaller, 34mm Rolex Date, but prices for both date-displaying Rolex watch models start out at more than the cost of even the most expensive no-date Oyster Perpetual model from the brand's contemporary selection.

What is the Rolex Day-Date?

• The Rolex Day-Date is the flagship watch in the Rolex catalog. While the Rolex Date and Datejust display the date of the month through a window at the 3 o’clock location, the Rolex Day-Date also displays the day of the week (spelled out in full) through a window at the 12 o’clock location. Additionally, the Rolex Day-Date is only ever crafted from either solid 18k gold or 950 platinum.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ROLEX DATE AND OYSTERDATE PRECISION? 

• Aside from the Datejust, the Perpetual Date often gets compared to the Oysterdate Precision. While both the Date and the Oysterdate share similar 34mm case sizes and a date window at 3 o’clock with a Cyclops lens, the biggest difference between the two is the type of movement they run on. The Date is an automatic Rolex watch while the Oysterdate is a manual-winding Rolex watch. Moreover, Date watches are COSC-certified while Oysterdate watches are not—which is why they typically include “Precision” on the dial rather than the ubiquitous “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified” text found on most Rolex watches. Rolex no longer makes manual-winding Oysterdate watches.

How do you change the date on a Rolex?

• With the exception of certain vintage models that do not feature 'Quickset' date functions, the date display on a Rolex can be set independently from the time-telling hands. For older models without this quickset function, the only way to change the date will be to advance the hands in full rotations past midnight. However, for models with Quickset date functions, to change the date you must unscrew the winding crown so that is is free from the threads of the case. Then, pull out the crown to the first position, but not all the way out (the seconds hand will stay running in this first position). Next, rotate the crown to advance the calendar wheel the desired number of values. Finally, screw the winding crown back down to the case to ensure that the watch maintains its water resistance.