I can still remember a time when the Rolex Datejust was relatively easy to get your hands on without too much hassle. Those were the days when you’d stroll into a Rolex AD and pick out the watch you wanted to wear home. Of course, there are now bygone years; nowadays, the Rolex Datejust is firmly established as a fan favorite, often changing hands for several thousand dollars above official list prices. The legendary watch is known for turning enthusiasts green with envy – even those wearing a Rolex sports watch. But despite all of this popularity, there are in fact a few Rolex Datejust models that don’t receive their due attention. And that’s great news for you! Today, I’m showing you three variants of the iconic Rolex that fly under the radar of watch lovers.
1. Rolex Datejust 41 ref. 126334 in white on an Oyster bracelet
The Pure Beauty
If you ask watch lovers what the best-looking Rolex Datejust is, they’ll answer “blue dial” in most cases. Come to think of it, though, you might also hear “slate gray,” “black,” or maybe even “Wimbledon.” One thing every Datejust lover will agree with, however, is that this Rolex belongs on a Jubilee bracelet! But is that really the case? And does the dial color simply have to be one of the more popular ones among watch fans? Heck no! It’s more than worth your time to take a look at the lesser-known Datejust configurations out there, because you’re sure to come across a true gem when you do. One such gem is the Rolex Datejust 41 ref. 126334 with a white dial and an Oyster bracelet, a wonderfully pure configuration of the Rolex icon. The alternating polished and satinized surfaces of the bracelet harmonize perfectly with the fluted white gold bezel. While a Jubilee bracelet would create explosive visual effects, the Oyster creates a more understated play of light that is no less beautiful. It’s a true joy to watch the polished surfaces shine, while the satinized sections make their presence felt in a more reserved manner. The white dial gives you a watch that embodies beautiful understatement, and stands in wonderful contrast to the glitz and glamour exuded naturally by the Rolex Datejust. The dial is sure to match any outfit, meaning you’ll always look your best while wearing it. The timepiece is a great choice for purists, with its iconic Cyclops lens above the date window basically blending into the dial color, creating an overall feel of harmony. The white dial combined with the fluted bezel and Oyster bracelet is not only a relatively rare sight in the watch world, you’ll be happy to know that the Rolex Datejust 41 is one of the more “inexpensive” models out there as well.
2. Every Datejust on an Oyster bracelet
Rolex Datejust 36 & 41
OK, OK, I know I’m cheating a little, but we really have to talk about the very different steel bracelets. As I said above, the Rolex Datejust is much more popular on a Jubilee bracelet than on an Oyster bracelet. But this means the Rolex icon is generally a bit more affordable on the Oyster bracelet, and a rarer sight than on the Jubilee. This is the case for all its dial variants, regardless of whether the watch has a fluted or smooth bezel. Let me be clear: If you’re talking about the genuine original Rolex Datejust in the classic 36-mm size, there’s basically no getting around the iconic Jubilee. This gorgeous bracelet was specifically conceived for this elegant dress watch, which you’ll sense every time you have this timepiece on your wrist. It’s another story, however, with the 41-mm Rolex Datejust model. This re-interpretation of the icon sees itself as more of an all-rounder, and is a big nod to today’s typical wearer. You’ll definitely find this watch on the Jubilee bracelet, but it was in fact clearly conceptualized for the Oyster bracelet, which in this constellation gives the Rolex Datejust 41 an even more harmonious, stylish feel. Obviously, you have to buy the watch and bracelet you want and that you like. But if you’re looking for a Rolex Datejust that flies under the radar, the Oyster bracelet is the best way to go: it’s a perfect fit for the 41-mm version of the Rolex icon.
3. Rolex Datejust 41 ref. 126333
The Perfect Two-Tone Watch
The final Rolex Datejust I want to show you today is one that, although it flies far under the radar of watch lovers, is a downright feast for the eyes. It’s pretty well known that two-tone watches are less popular than their fully stainless steel counterparts. So it’s (unfortunately) not surprising that the two-tone Oystersteel and yellow gold Datejust is commonly overlooked by enthusiasts. Can you imagine having a two-tone watch in your collection that stands out a bit more than the others? If so, you’ll definitely want to take a look at the Rolex Datejust 41 reference 126333. At the time of writing, market prices for well-maintained pre-owned models are close to their official list prices, which means the ref. 126333 is a great opportunity for you to own a true Rolex icon.
The two-tone Datejust 41 can be purchased for around $14,700, regardless of dial color. This great-looking all-rounder is going to go with any outfit, whether you’re stepping out in black, white, champagne, or silver. With its fluted bezel and perfect two-tone execution, the watch is surely a joy to behold. The Rolex Datejust 41 ref. 126333 is the perfect choice for anyone wanting a Rolex that flies under the radar. It’s not a timepiece you’ll see on everyone’s wrist, either, and can be had for around its official list price. For smaller wrists, I warmly recommend the classic 36-mm model, another great-looking two-tone watch. Be sure to check out the wide selection of models available on the vintage marketplace. You may be surprised to find very affordable Datejusts there.
