The history of this Rolex Datejust 31
Rolex revolutionised watchmaking in 1945 by introducing a model featuring an automatic date display visible through a window on the dial. The Rolex Datejust 31, reference 178243, is a direct descendant of this great technical and stylistic lineage. Originally designed to meet the need for water resistance and everyday precision, this collection quickly established itself as the benchmark for the classic prestige watch. The 31 mm intermediate model emerged from an exciting evolution in watch fashion at the turn of the 2000s. Collectors and enthusiasts of the brand were then moving away from the more discreet traditional 26 mm diameters in favour of timepieces with a more assertive visual presence on the wrist, whilst maintaining harmonious proportions. It was at this time that the brand registered the official name ‘Rolesor’ in 1933, a technical term specific to the manufacture’s history that refers to the exclusive combination of gold and steel in a single timepiece, uniting the robustness of one with the elegance of the other.
Case, movement and bracelet of this Datejust 31
The 31 mm diameter case features the famous Oyster case, machined from a solid block of 904L Oystersteel, topped with a smooth, domed bezel in 18-carat yellow gold. The lugs blend seamlessly to hug the wrist, whilst the solid screw-down caseback ensures optimal water resistance to 100 metres. Beneath the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, fitted with its famous Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock, lies a champagne-yellow dial with a sunburst finish that captures the light. The applied hour markers and baton-shaped hands are crafted from 18-carat yellow gold to prevent tarnishing. At the heart of the timepiece beats the calibre 2235, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely manufactured by Rolex. Certified as a Superlative Chronometer by the COSC and the brand’s own laboratories, this mechanism is fitted with a Breguet balance spring and beats at a frequency of 4 Hz. It guarantees a power reserve of 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a Rolesor bracelet featuring alternating central links in polished yellow gold and side links in satin-finished steel, complete with a safety clasp.
Why this Rolex watch
Finding this gold and steel configuration on the pre-owned market presents a unique aesthetic and horological opportunity at The Swiss Collector. Whilst contemporary 31 mm models have long waiting lists at official boutiques, this historic piece embodies a perfect balance between the timeless classicism of the champagne-coloured dial and the modernity of a contemporary diameter. Less exposed to speculative price fluctuations than purely sports models, this watch offers unrivalled value for money for anyone wishing to acquire an icon from the manufacture. Its absolute versatility allows it to transcend trends with quiet authority, suiting both formal attire and more casual everyday wear.
Contents and condition
This exceptional timepiece has just undergone a meticulous polishing and a full service carried out in April 2025 at an authorised workshop of the manufacturer. The work carried out has removed any external signs of wear and replaced the crystal, which had an initial defect, restoring the watch’s polished and satin-finished surfaces to their original lustre. The purchaser thus benefits from a timepiece that is aesthetically flawless and mechanically impeccable. The watch is accompanied by its original international warranty card, which states the serial number and reference 178243, its official Rolex World Service green card, and its workshop technical report, which certifies all the maintenance work carried out.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this piece. This watch comes with a 24-month service warranty covering its entire mechanical operation. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international delivery.
* Very good condition – watch has been previously worn and polished. Slight signs of external wear. Case and strap in excellent overall condition.
