The Rolex Datejust 31 is categorized as a mid-sized ladies’ timepiece. It forms part of the wider range of Datejust models, which are dress watches featuring a date display window, complete with a ‘Cyclops’ magnifying lens. The 31mm case size represents a significant step up from the 26mm or 28mm models, making a bigger statement.
However, within the Datejust 31 line, there are actually a wide range of different watches to choose from, with buyers needing to decide between different case materials, dial colors, dial marker options and bezels. In this guide, we explore the various options available to buyers, comparing design choices and affordability.
1. Rolex Datejust 31: Stainless Steel Smooth Bezel 178240
The full stainless steel Datejust 31 models with a smooth bezel represent an entry-level option, suitable for those who want an understated timepiece, or those who are operating on a more limited budget. One thing to be aware of is that the smooth bezel is the only option for full steel models, with no fluted or diamond options available.
Full stainless steel models are classic dress watches, which can be worn for most occasions. Buyers have the choice of index, Arabic or Roman numeral dial markers, while dial color options include black, white, silver, blue and pink. Perhaps the single biggest decision to make is whether to opt for a Jubilee or Oyster bracelet.
The Jubilee bracelet was specifically designed by Rolex for the Datejust collection and is the more elaborate of the two, making it a popular choice. However, some prefer the more conventional and simplistic nature of the Oyster bracelet, and this also has the advantage of being the more affordable of the two options as well.
2. Lady Datejust 31: White Gold/Steel Fluted Bezel 178274
The two-tone white gold and stainless steel Rolex Datejust 31 is visually similar to the full steel gold models, with the key difference being the bezel. Rather than the smooth bezel seen on the stainless steel models, these watches come with a fluted bezel, constructed from white gold.
You should note that, unlike other two-tone combinations, these watches do not feature any white gold on the bracelet. As with the steel models, there is a direct choice between the Jubilee or Oyster bracelet, while dial color options include black, white, silver, white mother of pearl, blue, bronze, pink and purple.
In addition to the options for Arabic, Roman or index dial markers, there is also the option for diamond dial markers. These models, when paired with Jubilee bracelets, represent the most expensive models in this category, while models with index dial markers and Oyster bracelets are the most affordable.
3. Midsize Datejust 31: Yellow Gold Two-Tone ‘Rolesor’ 278273
When compared with the two-tone white gold models, the two-tone yellow gold and steel Datejust 31 watches have a much more obvious luxury appeal, owing to the more noticeable contrast between the two materials. This helps to make them a popular choice for women seeking something which makes more of a visual impact.
Within this category, there are a wide range of choices to be made. For instance, smooth, fluted and diamond bejeweled bezels are all available, as are Oyster and Jubilee bracelets. Dial color options include black, white, silver, white mother of pearl, champagne and green, while some dials even have a floral motif.
The most expensive models within this category are overtly feminine, luxurious models with Jubilee bracelets, diamond dial markers, diamond bezels and white mother of pearl dials. By contrast, the most affordable options are those with smooth bezels, Oyster bracelets and index dial markers, with the absence of any diamonds.
4. Ladies’ Datejust 31: Rose Gold Two-Tone ‘Rolesor’ 278271
For women seeking a watch with a clear sense of luxury, but a slightly more subtle contrast between steel and gold, the two-tone rose gold and steel Datejust 31 timepieces represent an excellent option. In terms of the range of choice that is available, these follow many of the same basic principles as with the yellow gold and steel models.
For instance, once again buyers can choose between a Jubilee or Oyster bracelet, as well as a fluted, smooth or diamond bezel. However, the diamond bezels are also slightly more understated, featuring a smooth rose gold base and fewer diamonds. Dial colors include black, white, silver, white mother of pearl, pink, purple and chocolate.
The most affordable options within this category tend to combine a smooth bezel, pink dial, Oyster bracelet and index dial markers. On the other hand, the most expensive models are those which combine diamond bezels, diamond dial markers, white mother of pearl dials and Jubilee bracelets.
5. Rolex Lady-Datejust 31: Full Yellow Gold 278278
If you are seeking a mid-size Datejust 31 with an even greater sense of luxury and sophistication, the full yellow gold models may be just what the doctor ordered. These options are generally more expensive than the aforementioned categories, because they use gold where stainless steel was previously used.
Buyers can choose between models with either smooth or fluted bezels, while Oyster or ‘President’ bracelets are available. There is a smaller range of dial colors, with the choices including champagne, green, white, white mother of pearl, and a diamond paved option. Dial markers are either Roman numeral style, or are made from diamonds.
The most expensive models combine a ‘President’ bracelet and a fluted bezel with a diamond paved dial, while the green dial color also tends to be a pricier option. By contrast, the most affordable full yellow gold Datejust 31 timepieces feature Oyster bracelets, smooth bezels and white dials, with Roman numeral dial markers.
6. Ladies’ Rolex Datejust 31: Full Rose Gold 278275
Finally, the full rose gold Datejust 31 watches are broadly in line with the full yellow gold models in terms of the options available, but they have a slightly more subtle appearance. In addition, the rose gold color provides these watches with a more overtly feminine aesthetic, especially when combined with a ‘President’ bracelet.
As with the full yellow gold models, there is a choice between a smooth or a fluted bezel, although buyers can also opt for a diamond bejeweled bezel too. Dial colors include chocolate, white or white mother of pearl, along with the same diamond paved dials seen with the full yellow gold range.
The most affordable watches within this category have an Oyster bracelet, a white dial and a smooth bezel, while the most expensive timepieces are the more extravagant models, with diamond paved dials and diamond bezels.
The Last Word: Midsize Rolex for Women
The Rolex Datejust is one of the manufacturer’s flagship models, and the 31mm options are ideal for women who want to make a bold statement, without wearing an over-sized timepiece. The biggest decision to make is in relation to the case material, with steel, two-tone and full gold options, but there are also choices to be made revolving around the bracelet, bezel, dial color, dial markers and other aspects of your luxury watch.
