The history of this Rolex Datejust 31
The Rolex Datejust 31 is descended from a model launched in 1945 to mark the company’s 40th anniversary – the first automatic, water-resistant and chronometer-certified, to display the date in a window on the dial. The Cyclops lens, which magnifies the date, appeared in 1953 and quickly became its signature feature. The fluted bezel has an equally practical origin, as its flutes were originally used to screw the bezel onto the Oyster case. Crafted here in white gold, it reflects light through its fine ridges with every movement of the wrist. This pre-owned Datejust, reference 178274, belongs to the generation fitted with the calibre 2235 and features a 31 mm diameter, positioned between the 26 mm Lady-Datejust and the 36 mm Datejust. Sold in December 2006 by Bucherer in Geneva, it features the grey Rolesor combination: steel for the case and bracelet, and 18-carat white gold for the bezel.
Case, calibre and bracelet of this Datejust 31
The 31 mm Oyster case in steel, with polished sides and lugs, features a screw-down crown and a solid screw-down caseback. The sapphire crystal features the Cyclops lens above the date window at 3 o’clock. The white dial, inscribed ‘Oyster Perpetual Datejust’, features applied Roman numerals, baton hands and a slender central seconds hand, whilst the flange is engraved with the name ‘Rolex’ all the way round. The calibre 2235, a COSC-certified chronometer automatic in-house movement, beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour on 31 jewels, with a Breguet balance spring and a quick-set date. The three-row Oyster bracelet alternates between brushed outer links and a polished central link. It fastens with an Oysterclasp folding clasp stamped with the crown.
Why this Rolex watch
The configuration of this model, with a white dial and Oyster bracelet, is no longer listed in the Rolex catalogue. Its successor, the 278274, retains the fluted white gold bezel but features the calibre 2236 and a different generation of case. This Datejust 31 offers clear readability, with raised Roman numerals on a white background, and a 31 mm diameter that looks just as good on its own as it does with a strap. On the second-hand market, it is readily available, complete with all its original documentation, and can be tried on in one of our shops before purchase.
Contents and condition
The watch is supplied in its original green Rolex presentation box, without its cushion or outer box, along with the paper warranty certificate dated December 2006, stamped by Bucherer in Geneva, the official chronometer certificate, the Datejust booklet and the green leather card holder. It has been polished for sale, and both the case and bezel have regained their sharp edges. The sapphire crystal has a chip on its edge, between 7 o’clock and 8 o’clock, visible from the front but outside the dial’s reading area. As this chip means the original water resistance can no longer be guaranteed, the watch should be kept away from water until the crystal is replaced.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this watch, which is covered by a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand watch retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and in-store collection, or fully secure international delivery.
* Good condition – Watch has been worn. Some signs of wear (micro-scratches, signs of wear, etc.). Fully functional and tested by our partner watchmakers.
