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Break out the cake, because the Rolex Datejust is about to turn 70. This Rolex Datejust 16234 in stainless steel and 18-karat white gold combines the best features of the 1945 original with Rolex's latest technology and luxury refinements.
Notables from Chuck Yeager to Winston Churchill to Dwight Eisenhower have helped to keep the Datejust in the spotlight since its VE-era debut, but it's the masses of worldwide Rolex devotees who have made this model line the most important Rolex luxury reference of all time. VIPS have the "President"; let's consider the Datejust the "people's choice."
This Rolex Datejust 16234 packs the same essential appeal as the first automatic watch with a date window, the 1945 Datejust. With a 100m water-resistant Oyster case and bracelet (Oyster in this instance) that scream "sports watch" and a stately metallic sunburst blue dial that whispers "tuxedo," this Datejust is ready to answer any occasion with élan and panache.
A fluted bezel of 18-karat white gold sets the stage for a remarkably animated and detailed gloss white dial. Hand-applied white gold Roman numerals are encircled by a subtle white"railroad" chapter ring. At three o’clock the famed Rolex “Cyclops Eye” date magnifier keeps the watch’s signature complication in view.
Despite its 36mm nominal width, this Rolex Datejust leverages the broad shoulders of the Oyster case to wear and present like a conventional 40mm watch when on the wrist. This example features a supple, elegant, and supremely comfortable five-link Rolex Jubilee bracelet.
The refined detail and intricate joinery of the Jubilee is a better match for this dress-biased Datejust 16234 than the more utilitarian three-link Oyster bracelet.
Within the case, Rolex equips the Datejust 16234 with the same rugged Caliber 3135 movement found in the Submariner and Sea-Dweller. This tank-like power plant is equal parts blood and iron; while the legendary Rolex timing precision is confirmed by COSC certification, human artisans craft many critical details including the Rolex-manufacturered Breguet hairspring.
If you're ready to crash the biggest Swiss birthday bash of 2015, this Rolex Datejust 16234 is ready to party like it's 1945. See it in high resolution images with full factory accessories on www.thewatchbox.com. Video and content by Tim Mosso.