Spotlight: Stainless Steel and White Gold Rolex Datejust 41

What’s the Difference Between Datejust 41 and Datejust II?

Before we get to the Datejust 41 ref. 126334, it is important to differentiate between the Datejust 41 and Datejust II collections since they have more than a few similarities between them. Rolex introduced Datejust II lineup in 2009 as a bigger alternative to the classic Datejust 36. Datejust II watches have 41 mm cases and Oyster bracelets–and Rolex made them available in full steel, steel with a white gold bezel, and two-tone steel and yellow gold. Inside the Datejust II watch is Caliber 3136, driving the time and date functions and offers a 48-hour power reserve.

But then, just seven years later, Rolex replaced the Datejust II collection with the Datejust 41 range. As their name implies, the Datejust 41 watches also have 41 mm cases–which often leads to people mixing up the Datejust II and Datejust 41 models. But these are indeed entirely different models. The Datejust 41 may have the same official measurements, but the cases are slightly slimmer, have thinner bezels, and slender lugs. The overall effect is that the Datejust II looks sportier and bulkier than the more elegant and refined Datejust 41. What’s more, Rolex equipped with the Datejust 41 with a new-generation movement, brought back the option of the Jubilee bracelet, and made a two-tone steel and rose gold version available.

Rolex Datejust 41 ref. 126334 Design

On top of the 41 mm stainless steel case of the Rolex Datejust 41 ref. 126334 is an 18k white gold fluted bezel. The addition of the fluted bezel not only adds a great dressy touch to the watch, but is also a classic Datejust design feature. This particular version comes with a sleek dark rhodium dial, punctuated with hand-applied white gold baton hour markers filled with lume.

Of course, sitting at the traditional 3 o’clock position is the date window the watch is named after. And identical to all Datejust watches produced after 1953, there is a Cyclops magnification lens above the date window for better legibility. A signature trait of Rolex watches is that the magnification bubble (Rolex invented the Cyclops lens in 1953) protrudes above the crystal it sits on. As a modern Rolex watch, the Datejust 41 ref. 126334 features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.

While Rolex offers the option of the five-link Jubilee bracelet within the collection, the particular Datejust 41 ref. 126334 comes fitted with the three-link Oyster bracelet. The Oyster bracelet style is sportier than the dressier Jubilee, and pairs really well with this Rolex model. The bracelet is fitted with a robust and secure Oysterclasp and is further equipped with the practical Easylink system, which allows the wearer to shorten or lengthen the bracelet a few millimeters for a comfortable fit.

Rolex Caliber 3235

While the exterior of the Datejust 41 watch may be very similar to the previous Datejust II, what is on the interior is markedly different. The Datejust 41 collection runs on the new generation in-house Rolex Caliber 3235 automatic movement. The movement is fitted with Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring for increased resistance to magnetism and Paraflex shock absorbers for improved resistance to daily knocks.

Furthermore, Caliber 3235 has an accuracy rating of -2/+2 seconds per day, which is double that of the standards set out by COSC for a certified chronometer. Finally, Caliber 3235 offers an improved power reserve of 70 hours compared to the previous 48 hours of the older Caliber 3135 movement.

The Datejust watch has been a part of the Rolex catalog for over seven decades. Throughout that time, Rolex has managed to maintain the watch’s fundamental design codes while also modernizing it to meet contemporary tastes and expectations. And, the Rolex Datejust 41 ref. 126334 is a perfect example of a contemporary Rolex men’s watch built upon a rich legacy. A modern classic, through and through.