If you follow me, you know I am a Rolex Datejust lover. There’s a reason it became my go-to watch for my debut. Part of its appeal is its flexibility, so I didn’t think much of it when Nacho asked me to write a post about why it’s such a great all-around watch. 
Rolex, in general, excels in the areas mentioned above. It’s in the DNA of the brand. There’s no need to look at this crowned brand’s highest level of finishing or watchmaking craftsmanship. But for usable everyday reliability? Yes. In my days of trading, I felt much more comfortable selling a 50-year-old Rolex than I do selling some modern watch. I know I won’t see any problems coming back from Rolex anytime soon. I know some blown-up movements of specific vintages, but that has never translated into any noteworthy returns in my trading practice.
Something subtle and neutral about the Datejust makes it work in any situation. I can’t think of any outfit that would make the fake Rolex Datejust look out of place. Well, black tie, but that’s about it. I feel this way about vintage Datejust watches, as they tend to look more understated and less dazzling.
I believe it’s a combination of modest size and the unique shape of the Oyster case. So far, it’s been so familiar that it’s easy to overlook. But the Oyster case has the ultimate neutrality while retaining a clear identity. Pair it with a classic strap like the Jubilee or the Oyster, and you get an iconic shape in a quiet, almost benign way.
You can find the above elsewhere in the Rolex world. For example, I could devote a similar article to the Explorer. However, the Rolex Datejust has an edge in one area – a formality.
The Explorer approaches the concept of GADA from a sporty, casual perspective. The replica Rolex Datejust, on the other hand, takes a more formal approach. They are not far apart in the middle. Depending on where you live, your mileage may vary. However, security has become an issue in my part of the Netherlands. Luxury watches – especially Rolexes – are becoming a target for robbers. I don’t know the basic statistics, but horror stories quickly ensue. Unfortunately, these criminals are not stealing watches unknowingly. Many attacks are very violent and leave the victims without their watches and severely injured.
In that sense, the statistics don’t even matter. The mere idea of it being in my head limits my enjoyment of the watch. If I have to think about where I’m going on any given day and whether my watch will be wearable, then it’s no longer a watch for everything.
Yes, the mighty Rolex Datejust is the perfect everyday watch, but only as a discreet entity in the virtual world of the watch lover. As part of my actual, practical daily life, it pains me to admit that it no longer is. I strongly prefer more affordable and less visible watches as an everyday wearer. I may be paranoid, or I may be rightly cautious. Who knows? The simple fact is, and I’m not proud to admit it, it undermines the experience enough to change my behaviour.
