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How to recognize a real Rolex Datejust?

How to recognize a real Rolex Datejust?
Written by
Watch Certificate™
Published
April 26, 2023

When it was created in 1945, it was the first automatic, waterproof chronometer wristwatch to display the date in a window at 3 o'clock on the dial, hence its name. By its aesthetics and its functionalities, the Rolex Datejust is a watchmaking icon like the Oyster and one of the most recognizable watches of the brand.

In a world that is becoming increasingly digital, e-commerce is also developing strongly. It is becoming more and more difficult to find one's way around the web, with advertisements on all types of media (commercial sites, social networks, etc.) Rolex watches are among the most copied watches in the world. The Rolex watch is one of the most copied watches in the world. In order not to fall on an imitation, ask for help from a professional of Tradeewatches. 

It is possible to buy a real Rolex Datejust and check its authenticity, so we have 6 tips to ensure the authenticity of your watch.

Is your Datejust waterproof?

All new Rolex Datejust watches are completely waterproof and should not get wet when you get them wet. To test the water resistance of a modern Rolex watch, fill a glass with water, immerse the watch in water and then take it out again. The watch must be in perfect condition and not damaged by water. This is the first unstoppable test.

However, when you buy a second-hand Rolex Datejust, the water-resistance may be altered. In the case of a second-hand watch, visit a professional to check this point.

Date Change on Rolex

A Rolex Datejust, by name, has the date function. In order to check whether this function corresponds to the Rolex characteristics, you have to perform a manipulation. Check that the change of the opposite day takes place at 6H instead of 12H in the normal direction. To do this, simply pull the crown out and scroll the hands counterclockwise. After 2 turns of the dial, the date should change when the hands reach 6 o'clock. If this is not the case your watch is not a Rolex Datejust.

A silent second hand on a Datejust

On a luxury watch such as a Rolex Datejust, the second hand (or seconds hand) has a uniform, extremely fine movement that makes no noise. A genuine Rolex Datejust watch will always have a perfectly smooth and almost silent second hand, you won't hear that little "ticking" of classic watches. If not, the reliability of the watch is questionable.

Check your watch serial number

One of the most difficult elements to imitate is the inscription of the serial numbers of a Rolex Datejust. It will allow you to check the correspondence with the number written on the original document of the watch. The serial number of Rolex watches is located between the "lugs" or "nuts" on the dial at 6 o'clock. To access it you will need to remove the watch strap to :

  • Inspect the quality of the engraving of the serial number
  • Check the accuracy and fineness of lines of numbers and letters
  • Note the words "ORIG ROLEX DESIGN" between the horns at 12 o'clock.

In addition, with the serial number, you will be able to know the date of manufacture of your watch and check the correspondence with the information indicated on the original document. However, if you do not have the original documents or are not sure that you can correctly identify the inscriptions, we advise you to refer to a certified watchmaker for any verification of the serial number.

Specificity of Rolex Datejust

The Rolex Datejust has the "Date" dial at 3 o'clock on your watch. It is available in the calibers 31, 36, 41mm. 

The price of a Rolex Datejust varies according to the material used and the details. The average price range is between 3000 and 8000 euros (except for rare models). If you have any doubt about the price of your watch, we invite you to compare the price with our watches on our Tradeewatches site.

A certified Rolex Datejust

Have you heard about the Watch Certificate™ we're launching? This certificate attests to 53 control points verified by a professional watchmaker and validated by an independent expert to guarantee the authenticity of your fine watch purchases. Receive your Rolex Datejust without worrying about the points mentioned above.

A revolution in the world of second hand watches.

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