When it comes to watches, Rolex reigns supreme. Founded by Hans Wilsdorf in 1905, it was once a small brand, including a 24 year-old Wilsdorf himself and one Swiss watch movement manufacturer. Since then, it has expanded past its UK foundation and has become a worldwide phenomenon. Rolex’s archive flows 18 models deep, with watches like the Submariner, GMT-Master II, and the Explorer all highly sought after for their functionality and aesthetics. But one watch that seems to trump them all, especially on StockX, is the classic Rolex Datejust.
When first introduced in 1945, the Rolex Datejust was advanced for its time, as it was the first watch to display a visible date on the dial. Today, learning the date is just an iPhone view away, but one has to understand the gravity of such a function back when cell phones and the internet didn’t exist. Not only was it technologically ahead, but it transformed societal norms. In the late 19th/early 20th century, watches were considered a female accessory, as the first wristwatch ever produced was for Countess Koscowicz of Hungary in 1868. Thanks to its groundbreaking function of a date display, mixed with its precious metal construction and simplistic details, the Rolex Datejust became a desirable piece of jewelry for both men and women.
Rolex Datejust 16233
Since it first released, the Datejust has earned its fair share of attention becoming a popular time piece for both new and tenured watch wearers. The watch has been worn by notable figures both past and present, from Martin Luther King Jr. to President Eisenhower, to Michael Jordan and Roger Federer, helping maintain the watch’s powerful influence. Dr. King wore it during his “I Have a Dream” speech and Roger Federer wore it as he won his eighth Wimbledon title. The watch’s association with noteworthy activists and athletes has given the watch both a public platform and exposure to help maintain its popularity throughout time.
Martin Luther King Jr. and President Eisenhower wearing Rolex Datejust
Such association with high level figures has fed into the allure of owning a Rolex, as those that wear it tend to possess a high social status. The Rolex Datejust provides a level that desirable level of class without people having to spend a lot. Other noteworthy Rolex, like the Submariner 114060 and the GMT-Master II 126710BLNR, range between $8K -$13K, which for the common consumer, is a stretch. The Rolex Datejust however, starts at a price point under $4K, which is more attainable, and with the help of Affirm financing, makes it even easier to purchase. For its low price point, the Rolex Datejust has become the top selling Rolex on StockX to date!
Roger Federer and Michael Jordan wearing Rolex Datejust
Not only is the Rolex Datejust an affordable watch, but it is also an attractively minimal piece of jewelry. Every Rolex comes with a variety of functions, like aquatic activities with the Yacht-Master or sports timekeeping with the Daytona, but aside from the innovating addition of the date the Rolex Datejust is simply a dress watch, something to wear that looks good. The Datejust 16013’s dial features minimal branding and hour markers and lets its 18K gold fluted bezel do the talking. With the additional hits of gold throughout the Jubilee bracelet, the Rolex Datejust adds just the right amount of luxury to anyone’s wrist.
Being on the wrist of some of the world’s most influential people in history, the Rolex Datejust has remained a staple in the watchmaker’s century long catalog. Over the years, as trends ebb and flow, the Rolex Datejust seems to stand strong and is still regarded to some as the best Rolex to date. For those looking to add a little luxurious flare to their wrist without breaking the bank, the Rolex Datejust is the right watch for you!
