Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Ref. 279174
Dress Watch · Rolex SA. Tier: Iconic Luxury. Rolex is the world's most recognized luxury watch brand, known for durability and value retention.
Period: Modern Luxury (2016-Present). Recognizable by the contemporary 28mm case size which replaced the previous 26mm standard, and the updated high-polish 904L steel finish.
Type
Dress Watch
Brand
Rolex SA. Tier: Iconic Luxury. Rolex is the world's most recognized luxury watch brand, known for durability and value retention.
Movement
Automatic/Self-winding, Calibre 2236. Features a Syloxi hairspring (silicon), 55-hour power reserve, and frequency of 28,800 vph (4Hz).
Dimensions
28mm diameter; approx 10.5mm thickness; lug-to-lug approx 35mm; lug width 14mm. It wears larger than vintage 26mm models due to the redesigned lugs.
Description
The Lady-Datejust is the quintessential women's luxury watch. This specific model combines the ruggedness of stainless steel with the brilliance of a white gold fluted bezel. Its 28mm case offers a modern presence that is more legible than vintage alternatives while remaining elegantly feminine. The silver sunbeam dial provides a monochromatic, versatile aesthetic suitable for both formal events and daily wear.
Key Features
Fluted white gold bezel, Cyclops magnification lens, 28mm case size, Syloxi hairspring movement, and the five-link Jubilee bracelet (visible in the image).
Dial Description
Silver or Rhodium-colored dial with sunray finish. It features applied 18ct white gold baton indices or Roman numerals and classic baton hands. Includes the signature date window at 3 o'clock.
Case Material
White Rolesor (combination of Oystersteel and 18ct White Gold). The case is 904L stainless steel with a polished finish; the fluted bezel is solid 18ct white gold.
Crystal Type
Scratch-resistant sapphire with a Cyclops lens over the date (2.5x magnification). Flat profile with anti-reflective coating on the underside of the lens.
Bezel Details
Fixed fluted bezel in 18ct white gold. It is a signature Rolex design element, highly reflective and indicative of the 'Rolesor' luxury configuration.
Crown & Pushers
Screw-down, Twinlock double waterproofness system. Features the Rolex crown logo; no crown guards, maintaining a classic profile.
Bracelet or Strap
Jubilee bracelet (five-piece links) or Oyster bracelet (three-piece links) in Oystersteel. Features a concealed folding Crownclasp or Oysterclasp with Easylink extension.
Caseback Details
Solid, screw-down caseback with fine fluting. Sterile (no engravings), as per standard Rolex production protocol.
Movement Type
Automatic/Self-winding, Calibre 2236. Features a Syloxi hairspring (silicon), 55-hour power reserve, and frequency of 28,800 vph (4Hz).
Water Resistance
100 meters (330 feet). Safe for swimming and snorkeling. The screw-down crown must be fully tightened to maintain this rating.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made. Manufactured in Geneva and Bienne, Switzerland. Features an in-house movement and proprietary steel and gold alloys.
Age Estimate
Circa 2016–Present. The 28mm proportion and the specific lug taper identify it as the current generation of the Lady-Datejust.
Cultural Significance
It is arguably the most successful female timepiece in history. It represents a 'milestone' watch often purchased to celebrate professional achievements or significant birthdays.
Condition Notes
Based on the image, the watch appears in Excellent condition. The high-polish surfaces on the case and the sharpness of the fluted bezel suggest it is well-maintained with no significant visible rounding from over-polishing.
Value Estimate
$7,500 – $9,500 USD (Secondary Market). MSRP is approximately $8,300, but market price varies based on specific dial configuration and presence of original box/papers.
Care & Maintenance
Service interval of approximately 10 years. Recommend pressure testing every 2 years if used for swimming. Clean the Jubilee bracelet with a soft brush and soapy water to prevent 'stretch' caused by grit between links.
Similar Watches
Cartier Ballon Bleu (softer aesthetic), Omega Constellation (integrated bracelet design), or the Rolex Datejust 31 (slightly larger mid-size alternative).
Interesting Facts
The Lady-Datejust was first launched in 1957. It was the first ladies' version of the Rolex chronometer with a date display, carrying the same heritage as the men's version worn by world leaders.