The history of this Rolex Lady-Datejust
The Rolex Lady-Datejust was launched in 1957, 12 years after the 1945 Datejust, the first self-winding chronometer-certified wristwatch to display the date in a window at 3 o’clock. The brand then incorporated these features into a more compact Oyster case, designed for slender wrists, without compromising on water resistance or precision. The Lady-Datejust 6917 we are presenting dates from around 1980 and features the line’s most classic configuration, with an 18-carat yellow gold case, bezel and bracelet. Its bracelet, the President, has a history of its own. Rolex created it in 1956 for the launch of the Day-Date, with three-piece semi-circular links, and has only ever produced it in precious metal.
Case, movement and bracelet of this Lady-Datejust
The Oyster case measures 26 mm in diameter and features a polished fluted bezel, a screw-down crown bearing the Rolex crown emblem, and a screw-down case back. After polishing, the middle section and lugs have a satin finish that brings out the lustre of the bezel. The champagne-coloured sunburst dial features applied baton hour-markers with black inserts, tritium luminescent dots indicated by the ‘T Swiss T’ marking at the bottom of the dial, and gold baton hands. The date at 3 o’clock is visible through a Cyclops lens integrated into the Plexiglas crystal. The self-winding Calibre 2030, certified as a chronometer as indicated on the dial, drives the hours, minutes, central seconds and date. The yellow gold President bracelet alternates between satin-finished outer links and a polished centre link, and fastens with a gold folding clasp stamped with the Rolex crown. On a slender wrist, this compact case slips effortlessly beneath a cuff.
Why this Rolex watch
An all-gold Lady-Datejust on a President bracelet remains the most classic version of the range, the one instantly recognisable as the Rolex ladies’ watch. The brand now offers this model in a 28 mm size, and this reference allows you to rediscover the slimmer proportions of the 1980s, with a 26 mm case. Its period details, such as the Plexiglas crystal and tritium markers, are precisely what collectors of vintage Rolex watches are looking for. However, the Oyster case with a screw-down crown and automatic winding mechanism make it a watch that can be worn every day, without any particular restrictions. Whether as a first gold Rolex or to complete a collection, it embodies the full essence of the Lady-Datejust in its original form.
Contents and condition
This Lady-Datejust comes in a ‘The Swiss Collector’ presentation box with its outer slipcase, but without the original Rolex box or papers. It has just been polished for sale and is in very good condition for its age. The case, bezel and bracelet are pristine, the dial is clean and the luminescent markers are complete. For the buyer, this is a watch of around 45 years’ age, ready to wear, with no cosmetic work required.
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 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 worn. Slight signs of external wear. Case and strap in excellent overall condition.
