Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 31 (Customized/Aftermarket) Ref. 178240 or similar series
Dress Watch / Luxury Complications Watch · Rolex (Rolex SA). Tier: Luxury/Status. Rolex is the world's most recognized luxury watch brand, known for its robustness and value retention.
Period: Modern Luxury (2000s-present). It features the modern 6-digit reference style with solid-link Jubilee architecture and polished lugs, typical of Rolex design since the mid-2000s.
Type
Dress Watch / Luxury Complications Watch
Brand
Rolex (Rolex SA). Tier: Luxury/Status. Rolex is the world's most recognized luxury watch brand, known for its robustness and value retention.
Movement
Automatic/Self-winding, likely Caliber 2235. Features a frequency of 28,800 vph, approximately 48 hours of power reserve, and is a C.O.S.C. certified Superlative Chronometer.
Dimensions
Case diameter: 31mm (Mid-size); Thickness: ~11mm; Lug-to-lug: ~37mm; Lug width: 16mm. This size is considered the classic 'Mid-size' that sits between the traditional 26/28mm Lady-Datejust and the 36mm Datejust.
Description
This is a Mid-size Rolex Datejust 31, a staple of the brand's elegant lineup. It combines the utilitarian Oyster case with a decorative, personalized aesthetic. The inclusion of an aftermarket gem-set bezel and dial markers gives the watch a high-jewelry 'iced out' appearance, catering to a specific lifestyle aesthetic that prioritizes flash and customization over original factory specifications.
Key Features
Signature Rolex Datejust components: the date window at 3, the Jubilee bracelet, and the Oyster case. The most distinguishing feature is the non-factory bezel with blue accents at the cardinal points.
Dial Description
Silvery-white sunray dial with after-market diamond hour markers in white gold settings. Central sweep seconds, baton-style hands, and Date aperture at 3 o'clock magnified by a Cyclops lens.
Case Material
Stainless Steel (904L). The case displays a combination of high-polish finish on the lugs and sides with a fixed bezel set with stones.
Crystal Type
Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with flat profile and a raised Cyclops lens over the date. Appears to be in good condition without visible chips.
Bezel Details
Custom 'Aftermarket' Gem-Set Bezel. It is set with round brilliant-cut colorless stones (likely diamonds or crystals) and accented by blue baguettes/stones at the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions.
Crown & Pushers
Screw-down, Twinlock double waterproofness system crown featuring the Rolex coronet. No pushers.
Bracelet or Strap
Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet with five-piece links. Features a concealed folding Crownclasp (integrated), which creates a seamless look across the wrist.
Caseback Details
Solid, screw-down fluted caseback in stainless steel. Typical of Rolex, it is devoid of engravings unless personalized by a third party.
Movement Type
Automatic/Self-winding, likely Caliber 2235. Features a frequency of 28,800 vph, approximately 48 hours of power reserve, and is a C.O.S.C. certified Superlative Chronometer.
Water Resistance
Originally rated for 100 meters (330 feet). However, with an aftermarket bezel and age-related gasket wear, treat as splash-resistant only until pressure tested.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made. Manufactured in Geneva and Bienne, Switzerland. Movement is in-house.
Age Estimate
Circa 2005-2015. The hidden Crownclasp on the Jubilee bracelet and the 31mm case proportions suggest a late 2000s production.
Cultural Significance
The Datejust is the quintessential 'everyday' luxury watch. It is culturally recognized as a symbol of success and milestone achievement, though customized versions like this are often associated with the early 2000s 'hip-hop' and fashion-forward customization trend.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The bracelet shows significant 'stretch' (slack between the links), indicating heavy wear. The setting for the stones on the bezel appears to be non-factory/aftermarket quality. Metal shows surface scratches/swirls.
Value Estimate
Secondary Market: $5,500 - $7,500 USD. Note: Aftermarket customizations (non-factory diamond bezels/dials) often decrease the 'collector' value compared to all-original pieces, though they remain popular for personal wear.
Care & Maintenance
Recommended service interval is every 10 years. Due to the aftermarket bezel, water resistance should be professionally tested using a pressure test, as non-factory components can compromise the seal. Clean with a soft brush and soapy water to keep stones bright.
Similar Watches
Omega Constellation 29mm, Cartier Ballon Bleu 33mm, or the factory Rolex Ref. 178384 (which features a factory diamond bezel).
Interesting Facts
The Datejust was the first self-winding chronometer wristwatch to display the date in a window on the dial (1945). The 31mm size is often preferred by women who find the Lady-Datejust too small but want something more jewelry-like than the 36mm.