Why the Oyster bracelet Datejust works for modern times

It’s still very difficult to get popular Rolex sports watches at a reasonable price, but one of the most versatile styles that is attainable is the classic sized Datejust. But to some, the classic configuration, fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet, can be perceived as too formal, dressy and evocative of the retirement community set.

Photo by European Watch Gallery

That’s why the oft-criticized version of the Datejust, smooth bezel and Oyster bracelet, can really shine for the wearer who wants a sportier look on the wrist that still can work with office attire and 90 percent of occasions. And the best news, this configuration without the white gold bezel, generally costs less and is relatively common on the secondhand market.

Rated to 100 meters of water resistance, modern Datejust models are more than adequate for swimming too, which means that one can wear a swimsuit or grey suit with this watch. The $8K range availability makes this Datejust configuration one of the more sensible purchases for people who value what’s on their wrist.

Photo from Watchuseek

The polished center links on the modern Oyster bracelet that comes on a Datejust also add a bit more panache over the Oyster Perpetual model, so you get that bit of bling that signifies to the non-watch people that you probably have on a nice watch, a trait that admittedly many of us want when decide to purchase a Rolex.

We posted a Datejust on our Instagram feed and comments to the effect that it isn’t a sports watch popped up. We’d argue that any Oyster-cased Rolex (with Twin-Lock crown) has more in common with a sports watch than a dress watch. The fact that the Datejust’s defining characteristic is its date complication pushes it further away from the traditional definition of a dress watch, which is basically: time-only, slim-cased, and worn a leather strap. Some may even require a precious metal case in their definition of a dress watch.

Admittedly, I used to think that the only configuration to get a Datejust in is Jubilee with a fluted bezel. After all those two details are defining attributes of the model. And within my current collection that includes a Submariner, which is defined by its Oyster bracelet and must-copied rugged utility look, a “fancier” Datejust configuration would be an ideal complement.

But if you are seeking to use your Datejust as your primary watch, I recommend that you consider the smooth on smooth version, as I call it. I’ve actually seen this watch in a Rolex authorized dealer case ready to buy a few times in 2021, the peak year of Rolex steel scarcity.

What’s beautiful about the Datejust is that it comes in so many varieties that one can find a configuration that works for an individual’s personal style. I, for one, am eyeing a blue dial with Roman numeral markers and, of course, the smooth on smooth bracelet and bezel choice.