The Rolex Datejust is undoubtedly the most versatile and permanent watch in the Geneva brand lineup. This year, we decided to mark this opportunity as we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the model. Over the past few weeks, members of the editorial team have been sharing their favorite date just references. Now it’s time to gather them all in one place, revisit the writer’s choices, and ask readers to crown the ultimate date. From typical icons to quirky outliers, these seven picks show just how broad the date just spectrum is. Which one stands above the others?
Thomas – Typical Rolex Dating 1601
For Thomas, dating is the best when it comes to embodying simplicity. His pick, 1601, represents everything the model should do – clean, balanced and timeless. Using a grooved bezel, shaved dial and a jubilee bracelet, the 1601 distills the date just into its most important and recognizable form. For Thomas, this reference is the “king” of the line. This is because it brings lasting elegance without resorting to flashy materials or bold experiments.
Microphone – 1601 with lavender dial
Mike Stockton leaned against the character with his pick. This is a 1601 with a rare lume lavender dial. This is the perfect example of how datejust can surprise even a seasoned collector. The subtle pastel tones give a unique personality and softens the formal attitude of the watch. The no-room run keeps the look modest yet unique, and in a collection filled with traditional dials, this stands out as something quietly special.
Image: Vintage Amsterdam watch
Jorg – White Gold 16019 with Barwood Dial
Jorg went another path, spotlighting a 36mm white gold date and equipped with a burwood dial. For him, it’s about turning the visual glow of just date to 11. Warm, organic wood patterns combined with precious metals date beyond the roots of its tool watch. It demonstrates the ability of the Line for experimentation and improvement, and for Jorg it represents the most luxurious and visually appealing date.
Image: Wind Vintage
Darn – (still) non-existent or yellow gold 16078
Dern plays the provocateur and admits that his favorite date just technically does not exist. Instead, he outlined a dream reference – a blend of elements of the present and past that will make his ideal everyday wearer. In the meantime, he highlighted some close candidates. His contributions highlight how DateJust inspires the wishcast as much as praise, and his “non-picking” adds a playful but thoughtful angle to this lineup. That being said, his candidate will become his favorite from the options he presents: 16078 in yellow gold.
Rolex DateJust 16234 with Tapestry dial, ca. 1991 – Image: Lagedyk Vintage Watch
RJ – Dating 16234
RJ went to zero in 16234 with a model claiming “check all boxes.” The 16234, with a white gold grooved bezel, reliable movement and classic proportions, represents the peak of date just utility and collectability. It is modern enough to be practical and vintage enough to carry charm. The RJ case of this watch is rooted in balance. It’s not flashy, but it’s completely satisfying and a model that exemplifies why we’ll endure ten years from now.
Photo courtesy of Swiss Watch Expo
Lex – datejust turn-o-graph 116263
Rex left the beaten path and chose the two-tone turn ograph ref. 116263. Technically it’s a spin-off of Date Just, but he insists that this “adoption” member deserves recognition. With a blend of rotating bezels and sporty dressy cues, Turnograph injects utility into otherwise easy dating DNA. For Rex, his favourite is his versatility and heritage. It’s a bold choice and highlights how broad the DateJust family is.
Image: Bulang & Sons
Nacho – Discover 16014 with Champagne Dial
Nacho’s contributions differ slightly from others, as they began with uncertainty. He admitted that he didn’t have a date he liked – until writing about it made him find him. His standards were strict – Quick Set dates, Plexiglass, Jubilee bracelet, 36mm case, and stainless steel. As in 16,000, after excluding near misses, Nacho finally landed in 16014. Its steel case, a white grooved grooved bezel and a champagne dial hit the balance he was looking for. He admits that this combination of skirts skirts a two-tone line, but finds the understated charm appealing. For Nacho, 16014 is the watch that ultimately gave him a “just a date moment.”
Time to vote!
Seven Editors: 7 Interpretations of Rolex Dating Just. Now it’s finished with you. Which one captures the essence of this enduring Rolex classic best? You can vote in the polls below and help you decide which date just governs.
Find the best Rolex dates of all time – Which will you get your vote?
