The Datejust, a paragon of the gentleman’s perfect wrist companion. It’s simple, constraint yet so versatile – I’d venture as far as to say it is a timepiece that every man should own at least once in their lifetime. There’s something so simple about it, yet so gratifying at the same time, it is pretty much the only watch that man could ever need, yet Rolex continue to evolve the Datejust, making small changes here and there. Rolex introduced the iconic Datejust to the world back in 1945 – instantly recognised by Rolex as the world’s first self-winding watch to display the date via an aperture. Naturally, overtime Rolex experimented with dials and case sizes to further enhance the Datejust’s perennial beauty and mass appeal. For these new Datejust 36 in stainless steel, Rolex have focused on the dial aspect and while they’re somewhat eclectic – admittedly I’m liking the stylish new motifs Rolex have chosen to go with.
Earlier this year, Rolex dropped four new versions of the Datejust 36, that featured a new ‘palm’ and ‘fluted’ motifs in various colours, which can be paired with different case metals. The palm motif is available in three different variations. The first is an olive-green dial that is paired with Oystersteel (904L steel), a gold dial that is paired with yellow Rolesor (18ct yellow-gold and steel) and lastly a silver dial that is paired with Everose Rolesor (18ct rose-gold and steel). The fluted motif is only available in gold and silver and, paired with either yellow or Everose Rolesor.
Naturally each dial variations sports a black outer minute scale, with luminous block markers – a nod to the models of yesteryear. While the use of block markers is in-keeping with the classic Datejust style, there are modern elements that allow it to remain contemporary. As always, at 12 o’clock is the Rolex coronet and at 3 o’clock is the date window that is bold and easy to read. The hour and minutes hands are classic matchstick styles that are inlaid with luminous material.
The 36mm Oyster case of these new Datejust’s, is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres. Its characteristic middle case is crafted from a solid block of 904L steel, lending robustness, proportion, and elegance. There is of course the option of having your Datejust fitted with a fluted or smooth bezel. Going with the fluted option will result in Rolex using something they’ve called Rolesor. Rolesor, the combination of gold and steel on a Rolex watch, has been a signature feature of the brand since 1933. Being an Oyster case, it is fitted with a Twinlock double waterproof system, and each variant is available on either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet.
The one thing likely to go unnoticed by many but is most definitely worth mentioning. This new DJ 36 is equipped with calibre 3235, a new-generation movement first introduced in 2015 and has been fitted in this model since 2018. This self-winding mechanical movement is at the forefront of the art of watchmaking. A consummate demonstration of Rolex technology, it offers fundamental gains in terms of precision, power reserve, resistance to shocks and magnetic fields, convenience, and reliability. It incorporates the Chronergy escapement patented by Rolex, which combines high energy efficiency with great dependability. Made of nickel-phosphorus, it is also insensitive to magnetic interference.
The calibre 3235 is fitted with a self-winding module via a perpetual oscillating rotor. Thanks to its new barrel architecture and the escapement’s superior efficiency, the power reserve of calibre 3235 extends to approximately 70 hours.
FLEETING THOUGHTS
These three new Datejust 36s have quite the appeal but that said, they may not be for everyone. The new palm and fluted dial motifs, plus the added colour and case metal combinations on offer gives any prospective buyer quite the choice to choose from. However, like most new Rolex timepieces these days, I’m almost certain any one of these Datejust 36s will be hard to obtain and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. Rolex decided to have a little more fun with the Datejust, as they’ve done in previous years, but this one feels a little different in comparison – making it even more appealing.
These new 36mm Datejust’s is offered at a starting price of £5,650.For more information on the these new pieces, visit rolex.com.
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