Rolex Date/Datejust

A Brief History of Rolex

While the Rolex story doesn’t begin until 1905, founder Hans Wilsdorf began his journey into the world of watchmaking alongside his brother-in-law Alfred Davis with the creation of the Wilsdorf and Davis watchmaking company in 1902. In 1905, the Rolex Watch Company was born from this initial creation, named for the sound that a watch makes when being wound. By 1914, Rolex timepieces had been awarded multiple distinguishing certifications signifying their superlative timekeeping and precision.

In 1926, Rolex made its first industry-changing mark with the introduction of the Oyster Case. This piece was marketed as the world’s first ‘waterproof’ watch, with a fluted bezel and caseback that allowed for the case to be completely sealed. This timepiece was put to the test by famous English Channel swimmer Mercedes Gleitze, who wore it around her neck during a 1927 attempt, and passed with flying colors.

Following the amazing success of the Oyster Case, Rolex went on to release new iconic collections to add to its timeless line. The beloved Datejust was introduced in 1945 followed by the prolific Submariner in 1953 and the influential GMT-Master in 1955. The subsequent years yielded even more remarkable Rolex watch styles, including the Day-Date and the Milgauss in 1956. More iconic Rolex watch styles were to follow, including the innovative Deep-Sea Extra Special and Sea-Dweller models as well as the Cosmograph Daytona in the 1960s.

Rolex expanded its reach and cemented its name as one of the most prolific watch companies with the introduction of the GMT-Master II in 1971. This iconic style has quickly become one of the most sought after models created by Rolex, with a 24-hour GMT hand, independent quickset hour hand, and quintessential thick case with large crown guards. In the following years, the brand introduced a new wave of innovative, industry-changing timepieces, including the Yacht-Master and Pearlmaster in 1992, the Yacht-Master II in 2007, the DeepSea in 2008, the Datejust II in 2009 and the Skydweller in 2012.

Each new timepiece collection added to the Rolex annex possesses the same iconic style and unique innovations that are an integral part of the brand. One can only imagine what exceptional, groundbreaking pieces they will add to their lineup in the upcoming years.

After its undeniable success in the world of luxury watches, the Rolex Watch Company expanded its reach with the introduction of the Tudor brand in 1946. A sister brand of Rolex, Tudor offers more affordable timepieces with the same high quality standards of its more expensive counterpart to this very day.

The History of the Rolex Date / Datejust Watch

One of the most iconic collections under the Rolex umbrella, the Rolex Date and Datejust watch collection was first created in 1945 to embody the company’s definition of what true elegance means. This collection was designed to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Rolex, with the first timepiece being unveiled at an event in Geneva by Rolex founder, Hans Wilsdorf. It was the first of its kind to the market that featured the date in addition to the time, making it an industry-changing timepiece. This piece also sat on the first in-house designed bracelet, the Jubilee, in further celebration of a truly successful 40 years.

Originally known as the “Big Bubbleback” due to the enhanced curvature of its casing, the Rolex Datejust has since slimmed down as technological innovations have been added to its innermost parts. However, each Rolex Datejust has maintained the same iconic casing design with very little change to its simple yet statement-making style.

Over the years, the Rolex Datejust has been presented to famous individuals around the world, including a custom rose gold Datejust gifted to Winston Churchill in 1948 and another custom model gifted to President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1951. This timepiece has also made its way into the world of Hollywood, being seen on the silver and small screens adorning the wrists of actors in a wide variety of movies and television shows.

Since its inception, the Rolex Datejust has become an integral part of international luxury culture thanks to its timeless style and sleek sophistication. It will continue to set a near impossibly high standard for classic elegance for many decades to come.

Buy Pre-Owned Rolex Watches

Here at Gray & Sons Jewelers, we offer an amazing array of certified pre-owned Rolex watches that are perfect for completing your collection. A Rolex watch is certain to make a stunning statement that’s perfect for every occasion, with unmatched style and elegance alongside sleek, functional design. Whether you are looking for the perfect pre-owned Rolex watch to give someone special, or are interested in finding an investment piece of your own, you will find it here at Gray & Sons Jewelers.

Each of our new and used Rolex watches are carefully inspected, serviced, and polished by our certified in-house Swiss-trained watchmakers to restore and maintain their unmatched appeal and sophistication. All used Rolex Watches and new Rolex watches come with our guaranteed 24-month warranty that includes our “Like New for Life” policy, a staple representing our exemplary customer service following your purchase. If you have any questions regarding this policy, our services, or any of the selections you see in our inventory, please contact us. A representative will gladly assist you in any way to ensure a satisfying shopping experience.

Find Your Luxury Datejust Rolex Watch at Gray & Sons

A used Rolex watch is a fantastic investment, but only if you are purchasing from a reputable and trustworthy source. Gray & Sons first began as a brick and mortar shop in 1980, greatly expanding and building its reputation in both the local industry and larger industry since its founding. Gray & Sons has since been awarded an A+ with the Better Business Board, achieved good standing with the International Watch & Jewelry Guild, and become a world leader in used certified pre-owned luxury watches. If you’re looking for a trustworthy, reputable, and professional source for your pre owned watches and jewelry, look no further than Gray & Sons.