Rolex Datejust 36mm with 18K White Gold Fluted Bezel and Diamond Dial
Watch (Luxury Timepiece) · White Gold (bezel) and Stainless Steel (case/bracelet). The bezel is a proprietary 18K white gold alloy; the rest of the watch is 904L Oystersteel.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness) for the bezel; Stainless Steel for the case and bracelet. 18K gold contains 75% pure gold and provides necessary hardness for the fluting detail.
Type
Watch (Luxury Timepiece)
Purity
18K (750 fineness) for the bezel; Stainless Steel for the case and bracelet. 18K gold contains 75% pure gold and provides necessary hardness for the fluting detail.
Gold Type
White Gold (bezel) and Stainless Steel (case/bracelet). The bezel is a proprietary 18K white gold alloy; the rest of the watch is 904L Oystersteel.
Weight
Approximately 100-110 grams total weight. The 18K white gold bezel accounts for roughly 5-7 grams of the total weight.
Description
A classic Rolex Datejust 36 featuring the signature fluted 18K white gold bezel that catches and reflects light brilliantly. The silver sunray dial is accented by ten factory-set diamond hour markers, offering a blend of utility and high-end luxury. This model represents the quintessential 'everyday' luxury watch that holds its value exceptionally well.
Key Features
Fluted 18K white gold bezel, Cyclops magnification lens over the date at 3 o'clock, diamond-set hour markers, and the iconic Jubilee bracelet.
Color & Finish
Silver sunray dial with high-polish white gold bezel. The steel case features a combination of brushed and polished finishes. Noticeable oxidation/dirt on the lugs and bracelet joints.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Rolex coronet at 12 o'clock; 'ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL DATEJUST' text on dial; 'SWISS MADE' at 6 o'clock. 18K gold hallmarks are typically stamped on the underside of the bezel or case back flange (internal) and inside the clasp.
Dimensions Estimate
36mm case diameter, approximately 12mm thickness, 20mm lug width. Fits approximately 7-inch wrist as shown.
Gemstones & Inlays
10 round brilliant cut diamonds as hour markers, set in small 18k white gold square collets. Diamonds appear to be G-H color and VS clarity based on factory standards.
Clasp & Closure
Folding Oysterclasp or Jubilee hidden Crownclasp (partially obscured), featuring the Rolex crown logo and internal blade stamps for material and date code.
Chain & Links
Jubilee-style bracelet (five-piece links). Construction utilizes solid or hollow outer links with polished center links. Links show significant 'stretch' or gap indicative of long-term wear.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision engine-turned fluting on the gold bezel and micro-applied diamond settings. The dial features a sunray finish achieved by brushing from the center outward.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the rehaut, quality of the cyclops magnification (approx 2.5x), and sharpness of the coronet logo. Red flag: The misaligned 'SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETR' text (missing 'E') and poor font spacing suggest this specific item may be a replica or have a non-factory refinished dial.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; manufactured by Rolex S.A. in Geneva, Bienne, and Chêne-Bourg.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Era. Specifically consistent with models from the late 1990s through mid-2000s (e.g., Reference 16234).
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2005 based on the dial printing style ('SWISS MADE' vs older 'T SWISS T') and the lug hole configuration shown (non-holes case).
Cultural Significance
Recognized globally as the ultimate symbol of success and entry into the world of fine Swiss horology. It has been worn by countless world leaders and celebrities.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant surface scratching on the bezel, case, and crystal. Visible debris/grime accumulation in the crevices between the lugs and bracelet links. Bracelet exhibits noticeable slack ('stretch').
Value Estimate
Market value for genuine used examples ranges from $5,000 to $7,500. Gold melt value is negligible (approx. $350-$450) as the value lies in the brand and horology. If determined to be a replica, value is near zero.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water and a soft brush to remove dirt in links. Professional ultrasonic cleaning recommended. Requires periodic movement servicing (every 5-10 years) and pressure testing for waterproofness.
Similar Items
Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra, Cartier Santos, or Tudor Prince Date-Day. Each offers different aesthetic takes on the steel-and-gold luxury sports watch.
Interesting Facts
The Datejust was the first self-winding chronometer wristwatch to display the date in a window on the dial (1945). The fluted bezel was originally designed to screw the bezel onto the case to ensure waterproofness.