The Rolex Datejust is arguably one of the most iconic and recognizable watches in the world. Its timeless design, robust construction, and enduring elegance have made it a staple in collections for both men and women for generations. However, when it comes to the Rolex Datejust for women, understanding the nuances of the market, the different models, and, most importantly, the price, can be a daunting task. This article delves deep into the world of the Rolex Datejust for women, exploring its history, the various references available, the factors influencing price, and providing guidance for prospective buyers.
A Legacy Rooted in Femininity: The Rolex & Women's History
It's a common misconception that Rolex has always primarily focused on the male market. In fact, the brand's early success was significantly influenced by its association with women. Before diving into the specifics of the Datejust, it's crucial to understand this historical connection.
As the provided information points out, the first brand ambassador for Rolex wasn't a rugged explorer or a race car driver, but a woman: Mercedes Gleitze. In 1927, this English swimmer wore a Rolex Oyster during her attempt to swim the English Channel. While the swim wasn't entirely successful due to adverse conditions, the Rolex Oyster performed flawlessly, proving its waterproof capabilities. This groundbreaking demonstration, prominently featured in Rolex advertising, solidified the brand's reputation for reliability and innovation, and it was a woman who helped pave the way.
This early association with a strong, independent woman set the stage for Rolex's continued appeal to female clientele. While specific "ladies'" models were developed later, the brand always understood the power of its association with women who valued quality, precision, and timeless style.rolex modello date just da donna prezzo
The Rolex Datejust: A Timeless Classic for Women
The Datejust itself, introduced in 1945, was a revolutionary watch. It was the first self-winding chronometer wristwatch to display the date in a window at 3 o'clock. This innovation, coupled with its elegant design, made it an instant success. While initially designed as a men's watch, its versatility quickly led to the development of smaller, more feminine versions tailored to women's wrists.
The Datejust for women maintains the core design principles of the original while offering a range of sizes, materials, and dial options to cater to diverse tastes. The most common sizes for ladies' Datejusts range from 26mm to 31mm, with the 31mm model gaining popularity as preferences shift towards slightly larger watches.
Exploring Key Rolex Lady Datejust References
Navigating the world of Rolex references can be complex, but understanding the key models is essential for making an informed purchase. Here are a few noteworthy references frequently sought after in the ladies' Datejust category:
* Rolex Lady Datejust Ref. 69174: This is a particularly popular reference, often considered a classic entry point into the world of Rolex ownership. The "69174" typically features a stainless steel case, a fluted white gold bezel (a hallmark of the Datejust), and a Jubilee bracelet. The dial options are plentiful, ranging from classic silver and champagne to more vibrant colors. The movement is an automatic caliber, ensuring accurate timekeeping and reliability. The 69174 is appreciated for its balance of elegance, durability, and affordability (relatively speaking, of course).
* Key Features: Stainless steel case, White gold fluted bezel, Jubilee bracelet (often), Automatic movement, Variety of dial options.
* Other Common References: While the 69174 is prominent, other references include those with Oyster bracelets, different bezel options (smooth steel or gem-set), and variations in dial materials (mother-of-pearl, diamond indices). You might also encounter older references like the 6917, which feature acrylic crystals instead of sapphire.
Factors Influencing the Price of a Rolex Lady Datejust
Understanding the factors that determine the price of a Rolex Lady Datejust is crucial for making an informed decision. Several key elements contribute to the final cost:
* Material: The material of the case and bracelet significantly impacts the price. Stainless steel models are generally the most affordable, followed by two-tone (steel and gold) versions, and then solid gold (yellow, white, or Everose gold) models. Platinum models are the most expensive.
* Bezel: The bezel is another key determinant of price. A simple stainless steel bezel will be the least expensive. A fluted gold bezel adds to the cost, and a diamond-set bezel will significantly increase the price. The quality and quantity of diamonds used also play a role.
* Dial: The dial material and design can also influence the price. Standard painted dials are typically the most affordable. Dials made of mother-of-pearl, precious stones, or featuring diamond hour markers will command a higher premium. The rarity and desirability of a particular dial color can also impact its value.
* Bracelet: The type of bracelet (Oyster or Jubilee) and its material (stainless steel, gold, or two-tone) affect the price. The Jubilee bracelet, with its five-piece link design, is generally considered more complex to manufacture and is often priced slightly higher than the Oyster bracelet.