Introduced in 1945, the Rolex Datejust is one of the brand’s signature models and is recognised as the world’s first wristwatch with an automatically changing date display function on the dial. In the years since, it has emerged as a popular choice for both luxury watch enthusiasts and new buyers alike, due to its timeless style, overall versatility and huge potential for customisation, meaning it can suit almost all tastes and preferences.

While the Datejust is available in various materials, colours and styles, one increasingly popular option is the combination of a black dial set with diamond dial markers. This aesthetic helps to enhance the timepiece’s classic appeal, while also adding a subtle element of extravagance. Moreover, despite being classed as men’s watches, the 41mm diameter is in-keeping with the current trend for larger ladies’ watches, making it a solid unisex option.

However, there is a lot of variety available even with the black dial and diamond dial marker combination, meaning buyers have a choice of a number of different materials, bezel styles and bracelet types. In this article, we take a closer look at these variations, so that you can make a more informed purchase.

Please Note: Generally, you do not see diamonds on plain stainless steel Rolex watches. Smooth domed, steel bezel models could, theoretically, be upgraded or customised with diamond numerals, but usually those models just have a black dial with index hour markers. Call our Jaztime.com experts to ask about possible customisations.

1) White Gold fluted Bezel, Oyster vs. Jubilee Bracelet

The first option available to buyers is a stainless steel model, with a fluted, white gold bezel. Known as the Reference 126334, the timepiece has a vintage appeal and is ideal for those looking for a versatile model, which is suitable for use in a number of different settings. Meanwhile, the fluted bezel combines perfectly with the diamond dial markers, to provide an added sense of elegance and sophistication. There are no white gold smooth bezel Datejust 41 models and as mentioned above there are no stainless steel bezel models with diamond set hour markers.

Buyers do, however, have the choice of either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. The Jubilee bracelet is recommended for those intending to use their timepiece as a pure dress watch, while the Oyster bracelet is likely to be preferable for those looking for more of a general use model, thanks to its durability and slightly sportier appearance.

2) Two-Tone Yellow-Gold Smooth Bezel, Oyster vs. Jubilee

Another option available to buyers looking for a black dial, diamond hour marker Rolex Datejust is a two-tone yellow gold and steel model, with a smooth bezel. The Reference 126303 features a stainless steel case, a yellow gold bezel and a combined gold and steel bracelet. The two-tone combination helps to give the timepiece a sophisticated, dressy appearance, more closely resembling a piece of high-class jewellery.

As with the previous model, there is a choice of either the Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. Again, the Jubilee bracelet represents a dressier option, although some Rolex enthusiasts have a preference for Oyster bracelets on models such as this one, because the understated nature of the bracelet compliments the smooth bezel.

3) Two-Tone Yellow-Gold Fluted Bezel, Oyster vs. Jubilee

The next potential choice for buyers is actually very similar to the previous watch. However, with that being said, the Reference 126333 replaces the smooth bezel with a fluted bezel. As a result of this seemingly small change, the watch has a slightly more masculine quality and a more instantly eye-catching appearance.

With this particular model, the inclusion of a fluted bezel means that some Rolex aficionados will recommend the Jubilee bracelet to accompany it. Nevertheless, buyers may also opt for the Oyster bracelet and it offers advantages in terms of its durability, while also providing an Easylink feature.

5) Datejust 36 Black Diamond Dial & Diamond Bezel

Finally, some buyers may instead be interested in a Rolex Datejust, with a black diamond set dial and a diamond bezel. Unfortunately, there are no Datejust 41 models of this particular design available directly from the Rolex factory, but a custom design should be possible. Above, we have included an image of the same design on a 36mm Datejust, so that you can get a better idea of what it will look like. Note that there is an option to not just have a plain black dial but also a black jubilee design dial. If this is the design you want, get in touch with our experts at Jaztime.com and we will do our best to create this custom aesthetic for you.

Note: There are some models of the discontinued Datejust II which are also 41mm which offer both diamond Dials and Bezels. But not with a black dial.

4) Diamond set Dial – Two-Tone Rose Gold Rolex Datejust 41

At present, there are no Rolex Datejust 41 models available in rose gold, with a black dial. Instead, the two-tone steel and rose gold models tend to be sold with either Sundust, Chocolate and White Mother of Pearl dial colours. Nevertheless, this is one of the most simple customisation jobs available to buyers, as the dial can easily be modified to a black dial instead. Of course the Rose Gold Models are available with smooth and fluted bezels and with oyster or jubilee bracelets.

Call our experts here at Jaztime.com to find out more about this possibility.

Which Black Diamond Set Dial Datejust 41 do you choose?

• White Gold fluted Bezel
• Yellow Gold smooth Bezel
• Yellow Gold fluted Bezel
• Oyster Bracelet
• Jubilee Bracelet