On this review, Eric compares and contrasts the lower priced Rolex Datejust (Datejust “1” to some) to the Datejust II, which was introduced by Rolex in 2009 as an upgraded model (discontinued in 2016 and replaced with the Datejust 41).
Both the Datejust 1 and Datejust 2 are good entry level Rolex watches. The Datejust model goes up to a diameter size of 36mm and the Datejust II is bigger at 41mm; the modern standard when it comes to men’s Rolex watches.
Even though Eric strongly recommends the 36-mm Datejust mainly for women (unless a man has a very small sized wrist), the reality is that some women are even gravitating towards the 41mm size nowadays. For these women, the Datejust II might be more appropriate than the 36mm version.
Besides the sizes, the Datejust I and II models have the same overall characteristics, including the same case design, layout and bracelet proportions. Both models come in either a smooth or fluted bezel design.
One difference between the Datejust I and II is that Datejust IIs do not come with a Jubilee band option. It would have been pretty cool for Rolex to add it as an option.
Another difference between the I and II is that the Datejust II does not come in rose gold, whereas the Datejust 1 does.
Nevertheless, both come with plenty of dial options, which almost guarantees you’ll find one that you like – especially when looking for an economical, but stylish Rolex piece.
The most economical versions of the Datejusts is the stainless steel version with the smooth bezel. However, Eric always recommend that clients opt for the more stylish fluted version to give the watch an overall more luxurious look.
As far as the dial combinations go, his favorite is the charcoal Roman dial and the blue stick dial, both of which are shown on the video.
Unlike sports watch Rolex models like the Submariner, the Datejust models do not come with a superior triple crown seal. This means that even though they are water resistant, you need to be careful and make sure that their crowns are fully closed at all times whenever you go in the water in order to avoid unecessary water damage.
For those Rolex fans who want to jazz up their watches a bit, the Datejust 1 and 2 provide plenty of versatility. One thing you can do is add a diamond bezel to the watch to give it a bit of an extra punch. A diamond bezel will make the Datejust a bit more feminine, but if caution is exercised, even a men’s Datejust can be customized to look good with diamonds. Eric’s recommended size for a diamond bezel on a Datejust is about 2.5 carats for men.
Rolex Datejust Prices
During the video, Eric mentions that the retail price on the stainless steel Datejust II with a fluted bezel is $9,100 (as of the date of this video in October 2015). He also suggests that a good price to pick one up brand new is around $7,800 and around $6,750 for a pre-owned model. A two-tone model runs $2,000 more (circa October 2015).
A good price on a pre-owned, stainless Datejust 1 with either an Oyster or Jubilee band according to Eric is around $5,500. A brand new model runs about $1,000 more. A two-tone Datejust will run you about $1,000 more as well (circa October 2015).
As far as the Watch Game goes, the Datejust I and II are good economical introductions into the Rolex brand based on Eric’s advice. They are great watches to wear every day to work and flex some muscle, without making a big dent in a collector’s bank account.
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