The Rolex Datejust has always been one of the most classic and iconic watches out there. When it comes to Rolex watches, this is the choice for those looking for an everyday watch that is not too sporty nor too flashy —especially when equipped with a smooth bezel rather than the flashier 18K white gold fluted bezel. Available in 31 mm, 36 mm, or 41 mm, the Rolex Datejust 41 ref. 126300 is to us the perfect Datejust in terms of proportions. Not too big nor too small and with a relatively slender case measuring only 12 mm in thickness, the Datejust 41 is the result of Rolex’s constant search for perfection and innovation.

With its elegant profile and its 41 mm oyster case fitted with a smooth bezel, the Datejust 41 is without a doubt better than its predecessor the Datejust II ref. 116300. Even though both models are 41 mm in diameter, the slender look of the Datejust 41 along with a less wide bezel —barely noticeable— makes the watch more proportionate overall. Kind of what just happened back in September with the updated Submariner with better overall proportions and improved wearability.

Aesthetically, the Rolex Datejust has spanned eras, while retaining the enduring codes that make it, notably in its traditional versions, one of the most recognized and recognizable of watches. Available in a wide variety of dials, our choice is the blue dial version that happens to be a real chameleon depending on the lighting conditions.

Things to Know About the Watch

While there is not much to say about a Datejust from a technical standpoint, it is worth pointing out that the Datejust 41 is powered by the latest and greatest in-house calibre 3235 —the Rolex coronet at 6 o’clock on its white minute track is the telltale. This automatic movement is a superlative chronometer officially certified that is equipped with a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, a Paraflex anti-shock system, and a Chronergy escapement.

The movement is capable of delivering a power reserve of 70 hours and is a total upgrade from its predecessor calibre 3135 that powers the Rolex Datejust II. The calibre 3235 is way more precise that what the actual COSC specifications demand at -2/+2 seconds/day tolerance.

Featuring a blue sunray dial with white imprints and minute track, the Rolex Datejust 41 is as good as it gets. The sunburst finish creates delicate light reflections from the center of the dial towards the periphery, making the watch look totally different depending on the light. Rolex creates these dials by the use of a brushing technique that creates grooves running outwards from the center of the dial. Afterward, once the sunray finish has been completed, the dial color is applied using a PVD —Physical Vapour Deposition— or electroplating process. Finally, a light coat of varnish gives the dial its final look and appearance.

Its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal features the iconic cyclops that provides improved readability of the date at 3 o’clock. The cyclops features an anti-reflective treatment of both sides.

Available on an oyster or jubilee bracelet, the bracelet is an alchemy of form and functionality. Designed to be both robust and comfortable the oyster bracelet on the Datejust 41 ref. 126300 is equipped with an Oysterclasp and the Easylink comfort extension link, also exclusive to Rolex. This ingenious system allows the wearer to increase the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm, providing additional comfort in any circumstance.

On the Wrist & Pricing

On the wrist, the stainless steel Rolex Datejust 41 ref. 126300 with blue dial wears true to its size and with impeccable wrist presence. Without a doubt, one of the best looking Rolex watches out there and one that flies under the radar most of the time. Here at WCL we love blue dials and this Datejust happens to tick all the boxes if you are looking to wear the most popular color of the dial in the last two years. While many prefer the look of the fluted bezel, we think that the smooth bezel delivers a better look when paired with an oyster bracelet.

Sticker Price $7,650 USD. For more info on Rolex click here.