Latest Vintage Piece

Datejust II 41mm with 18 karat white gold bezel 116334 $11,250.00 CAD. 505-00587

The Datejust II was a gamechanger when it was debuted in 2009. It marked the first time Rolex made their most popular model in a size larger than 36mm diameter. The original Datejust was introduced way back in 1945 to mark the 40th anniversary of Rolex. Times change and tastes evolve, consumers wanted something bigger but still dressy. Traditional 40mm Rolex sports models like the Submariner, Explorer II, GMT-Master II and Daytona were all well liked but not dressy enough for certain occasions. The Datejust II was the answer and it was a huge success, sparking waiting lists from those seeking the all new jumbo Datejust. Popular yes but not without controversy among typically conservative Rolex customers. Some felt 41mm was simply too big. Others felt the gold fluted bezel was too thick, and many commented on how the jumbo hour markers looked disproportional to the modest sized hands. I guess even Rolex can’t please everyone. What I find most interesting about the short lived Datejust II (only in production for seven years) are some of the more unusual and quirky dials they featured. Our latest DJ II features Roman numerals, nothing unusual in that except they are only printed on the dial surface. Almost all modern Rolex hour markers are made from 18 karat gold and secured to the dial after the colour/finish have been applied. The Roman numerals look like they have 3 dimensional relief due to the thin silver outline and generous amount of black paint, but they are still just printed. The lack of contrast in pigment choice is a little unusual for Rolex too. The most unusual aspect of the dial is the single oversized luminous marker at 9:00 o’clock that is 18 karat white gold. On its own it looks a little out of place among the other Roman numerals, but in the dark it looks rather curious. Having a single glowing reference point at 9:00 o’clock is genuinely confusing. I would have loved to see the Rolex Coronet logo at 12:00 o’clock treated with bright luminous material, but that would have been sacrilegious embellishing the 5 point crown with glow in the dark paint. This is the first time we’ve had a Datejust II with this uncommon dial. The rest of the watch is very traditional Rolex; 18 karat white gold fluted bezel, sporty Oyster style bracelet with locking buckle and easylink extension. It comes with the inner/outer Rolex box and correct instruction booklet, but is missing its original warranty card. Very good to excellent condition and covered by our complimentary 1-year in house warranty. We don’t expect this uncommon and unusual dial Rolex Dateust II to last long at the estate price of $11,250.00 CAD. Stock #505-00587.

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