As the name suggests, the Rolex Datejust 41 has a 41mm case diameter, and this makes it the largest model in the Datejust watch collection, with the other men’s models being 36mm. The Datejust 41 is also slightly bigger than many of the other popular Rolex sports watches, such as the 40mm Submariner and GMT-Master II.
Unlike some other Rolex sports models, the Datejust 41 has many variations, which can make it difficult to find all of the colors, bezels and bracelet types in your local Rolex shop. It is, therefore, easier to order the model you desire at Jaztime.com, instead of wasting time, checking multiple authorized dealers to find what you are looking for.
In this buying guide, we take a closer look at the different options available to customers.
What Makes the Datejust Unique?
The Rolex Datejust is primarily defined by its date display window, which was not present on the original Rolex Oyster Perpetual collection, or similar models like the Explorer I. Indeed, the first Datejust model, released in 1945, is recognized as the world’s first wristwatch with an automatically changing date display function.
In subsequent years, a further evolution of this concept was the Rolex Day-Date, also known as the ‘President’, which shows both the date and the day of the week. Yet, Day-Date watches are only produced from precious metals, making them more expensive than the Datejust models, and not everyone wants a day display on the dial.
For these reasons, the Datejust remains one of the company’s flagship models and enjoys a great reputation among entry-level buyers and luxury watch aficionados alike. The Datejust 41 has emerged as an especially popular option since its introduction in 2016, thanks to the modern trend for larger timepieces.
The Datejust 41 family can be broadly divided into four main categories, which are explained in more detail below:
1. Stainless Steel Rolex Datejust 41
Stainless steel Rolex Datejust 41 models are classic dress watches, which are ideal for any occasion. Within this category, the steel models with a silver dial represent the cheapest available option, while black and slate green Roman dial Datejust 41s are the most popular and most expensive options. The slate green dial is the only option with Roman numerals on the dial, making it unique within the collection, while blue dials are another popular choice.
All of the full stainless steel Rolex Datejust 41 models feature a smooth domed bezel and each dial colour comes with the choice of either a classic Oyster bracelet, or the more elaborate Jubilee bracelet. As a general rule, the timepieces with a Jubilee bracelet cost more than the models with an Oyster bracelet.
Watches within this category are ideal for entry-level buyers, those operating on a slightly more restricted budget, or those who are seeking a more understated sense of sophistication. Rolex makes use of 904L stainless steel, which is more robust than 316L steel, offers greater resistance to corrosion, and can better withstand repeated polishing.
2. White Gold & Steel Rolex Datejust 41
Although there are no full white gold Rolex Datejust 41 models, the manufacturer does produce stainless steel models with a fluted white gold bezel. Unlike other steel-gold two-tone models, the bracelet is full stainless steel. With these timepieces, the majority of the watch is constructed from 904L stainless steel, but the bezel is crafted from white gold, which is a more valuable material.
Visually, white gold looks almost identical to stainless steel, giving these watches a uniformed appearance. However, you can tell the difference between a full steel Datejust 41 and a two-tone steel and white gold Datejust 41 by the bezel. The steel bezels are always smooth, while white gold bezels are always fluted. Therefore, if you see a Datejust 41 that looks like it is made from steel, but has a fluted bezel, the bezel is white gold.
Again, the silver dial options are the cheapest in this category, while the most popular options are the blue, black and slate green dials. At present, the most expensive Datejust 41s with a white gold bezel have a white mother of pearl (mop) dial. As with full steel models, there is a choice between an Oyster or a Jubilee bracelet. The most valuable models have diamond set hour markers on the dial.
3. Yellow Gold & Steel Rolex Datejust 41
The two-tone yellow gold and steel ‘Rolesor’ Datejust 41 models show off more clearly that part of the watch is made from gold and, unlike with the white gold options, these watches also have a two-tone bracelet. As a result, more gold is used and so the timepieces in this category are more expensive.
Both Oyster wristbands and Jubilee bracelets are available and, unlike with the two previous categories, buyers of two-tone yellow gold and steel Datejust 41s have the choice of either a smooth bezel, or a fluted bezel, both of which are made from yellow gold. Meanwhile, there is a choice between simple index dial markers, Roman numerals, or diamond hour markers, with the latter representing the most extravagant and luxurious option.
The champagne dial resembles yellow gold in colour, so fits well, while models with a white mother of pearl and diamond set dial, and Jubilee bracelet are among the most expensive Datejust 41s of all. Please note, there are no full yellow gold Rolex Datejust models, but those interested in such a thing may prefer to buy a Rolex Day-Date.
4. Rose Gold & Steel Rolex Datejust 41
Finally, the two-tone Everose gold and stainless steel Rolex Datejust 41s are a rose gold equivalent of the two-tone yellow gold category, with many of the same choices, albeit with the yellow gold being replaced by rose gold. This provides the watch with a warmer, slightly less flashy aesthetic.
Again, the bezel is constructed from rose gold and both smooth and fluted options are available. Buyers can also choose between a two-tone Oyster bracelet or a two-tone Jubilee bracelet. Moreover, standard index dial markers, Roman numeral dial markers and diamond dial markers are all available, providing excellent variety.
Two-tone rose gold and steel models are ideal for those seeking slightly more subtle luxury. Within this category, the most popular dial colors are Sundust, which is a pink metallic color, and chocolate, with both of these options matching nicely with the rose gold material. As with the previous category, the most expensive Everose gold and steel Datejust 41 models have a white mother of pearl diamond set dial and a Jubilee bracelet.
Final Thoughts
The Rolex Datejust is one of the manufacturer’s flagship models, with its date display window and ‘Cyclops’ lens achieving iconic status. However, the collection has grown considerably since its initial launch, providing an excellent range of choice, and the Datejust 41 models are currently the largest of these options.
Models are available in full steel gold, or two-tone combinations with steel and either white gold, yellow gold or rose gold, with each of these catering to different tastes and budgets. Regardless of the Datejust 41 model you have your heart set on, you will be able to find it for sale at the best price over at Jaztime.com.
