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When the first Rolex Datejust was introduced in 1945 – the year of the brand's 40th anniversary – it made history as the first self-winding, waterproof, certified chronometer with a date indication on the dial. The “Cyclops” was added in 1953 to magnify the date display two and a half times, making it clearer and easier to read, and this feature has since become one of the most recognisable characteristics of Rolex watches in general.

In 2004, Rolex began introducing the new generation of Datejust 36 models with six-digit references, including the 116233. This line of watches offered the characteristics of the original and iconic Rolex Datejust in a more modern design, incorporating a number of improvements. One of the most important features of the model is, of course, the movement – the Datejust 36 has the honour of housing the proven Calibre 3135, a Rolex in-house automatic movement with 31 jewels, COSC certification, an approximate 48-hour power reserve and an operating frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Over the years, the calibre underwent a number of improvements, including the introduction of Rolex's characteristic Parachrom hairspring, further reinforcing its reputation as an exceptionally reliable and precise movement.

It is no coincidence that the Datejust is one of the most popular and recognisable models of the brand after the iconic Submariner – and the Datejust 36 allows this popularity to be presented in a contemporary interpretation, while preserving the classic and timeless 36 mm size.

The details of this watch (as indeed of all modern Rolex watches we have had the opportunity to present) are truly impressive. Starting with the incredible dial, which from certain angles almost seems to disappear – in this case, we are talking about a champagne-coloured dial with 10 high-quality diamonds serving as hour markers – creating the overall impression that the hands and markers are “floating” in the air in a kind of weightlessness. The dial changes its shades depending on the lighting conditions, while the combination of the warm golden colour and the sparkle of the diamonds gives the watch an especially distinguished and aristocratic character.

Moving on to the classic sapphire crystal with “Cyclops”, everything is executed with the precision and attention to detail characteristic of the brand. The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial, while the characteristic magnifying lens above the date window ensures excellent legibility.

Of course, separate attention must be paid to the case and bezel – an incredible combination of brushed, high-grade 904L steel with faceted polished edges and details in certain areas, together with 18-carat yellow gold. As you know, Rolex pay special attention to the steel they use and, for this purpose, have their own foundries for producing their precious metal alloys. The brand calls the combination of steel and yellow gold Yellow Rolesor – one of the most classic and recognisable configurations in the history of the Datejust.

The bezel is the so-called “fluted” type, crafted from solid 18-carat yellow gold, which gives the watch an incredible appearance and a striking presence on your wrist. Combined with the champagne dial and diamond-set hour markers, it creates an exceptionally successful composition in which classic elegance meets the luxury characteristic of Rolex.

And, of course, the bracelet, strap, chain or whatever you prefer to call it – as one would expect from a Rolex, it is genuinely good... In this case, we are talking about a five-link Jubilee bracelet, with the centre links made of 18-carat yellow gold and the outer links crafted from Oystersteel. Particularly interesting is the concealed Crownclasp, which creates the impression of an uninterrupted bracelet around the entire wrist and further emphasises the watch's elegance.

The only thing it lacks (but perhaps only in our opinion) is the possibility of quick micro-adjustment, such as that offered by the Glidelock clasp of the Submariner. This version of the Jubilee bracelet does not feature Easylink, but the concealed Crownclasp is an exceptionally elegant solution that perfectly suits the character of the Datejust. The lug width is 20 mm.