Editor’s note: This Quick Hands-on Review of the Rolex Datejust 31 has been photographed at J Farren-Price Sydney. For our usual detailed hands-on reviews, please head to our dedicated reviews section here. This is NOT a sponsored post.
What Is It
The sublimely beautiful two-tone Rolex Datejust 31 ref. 278271 in Rolex’s Oystersteel and Everose gold featuring an aubergine coloured dial with a hint of diamond glitter, elegantly draped on a wrist courtesy the iconic two-tone Rolex Jubilee bracelet. All this and much more for an RRP of 17’750 AUD.
It is a part of the Rolex Datejust family, known not only for the elegant styling but also as being the first automatic waterproof chronometer wristwatch with a date window at 3’o clock.
The Rolex Datejust comes in various other dial, materials, sizes, and colour variants. The 31mm should hit the sweet spot for most ladies, though Rolex Datejust 31 is also available in a smaller size of 28mm (Lady Datejust) and larger 36mm diameters. But this specific combination of an aubergine dial with an oversized diamond-studded 6’o clock Roman “VI” marker is now only available as the Rolex Datejust 31.
Where To Find The Rolex Datejust 31
There are a few Rolex ADs in Sydney, including J Farren-Price Sydney, 80 Castlereagh St, Sydney (02 9231 3299)
Who Is The Rolex Datejust 31 For
Best suited for those ladies who believe in wearing one of the best dress watches ever produced. It’s also for those who like to wear a slice of horological history.
The Rolex Datejust since 1945 is known for combining innovations such as featuring chronometric precision — first chronometer certificates were granted to a Rolex wristwatch in 1910 — being waterproof — the Oyster case was created in 1926 — and incorporating a self-winding mechanism (the Perpetual rotor was patented in 1931).
When you have a product that is from a brand at the epitome of watchmaking, it’s hard to resist; but add the stellar looks, and you get yourself one hell of deal.
Basic Specs Of The Rolex Datejust 31
The reference 278271 features the calibre 2236 which is an automatic-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex.
Measuring 20mm in diameter, it was first introduced in 2014. The movement comprises of 31 jewels, beats at the frequency of 4Hz (21’600 A/h), and provides with a decent 55-hour power reserve. It is COSC-certified and features an accuracy of -2/+2 sec/day (after casing)
For a smooth driving experience, the Rolex Datejust 31 features a bidirectional self-winding rotor, Syloxi hairspring in silicon with patented geometry for the regularity of the movement in any position, balance wheel regulated by gold Microstella nuts, a paramagnetic nickel-phosphorus escape wheel, and Paraflex shock absorbers.
Quick Hands-on Experience
For those who like their watches to wear small and not feel oversized, the Rolex Datejust 31 should fit satisfactorily. On Jacqui’s ~16cm wrist, the 31mm diameter with 11mm thickness and 37mm lug-to-lug spacing case provides enough wrist coverage to look appealing yet not overpowering.
Even though she is used to wearing larger — 36mm Rolex Oyster Perpetual — watches, the Rolex Datejust 31’s sizing didn’t feel out of place, and 16mm lug interhorn spacing meant that the five-piece links Jubilee bracelet complemented the case design well.
Even though the reliability of the movement is a major factor in anyone deciding to go for the brand that wears the crown, one can’t help but be also swayed by the gorgeous visual aesthetics.
The fluted bezel works in cahoots with the Jubilee bracelet, bringing in a sense of architectural uniformity. But it is that aubergine purple coloured dial that commands the most attention.
Beautiful and mesmerising, shimmering yet understated, the aubergine dial of the Rolex Datejust 31 is a work of art in its own right; most prominently, there is a large VI set with diamonds. All around it are the Roman hour markers in gold, with the aubergine base coming to life the moment light caresses its sunray finish.
The brand informs that this high level of finishing is achieved thanks to the combination of a brushing technique that creates grooves running outwards from the centre of the dial, and application of the colour using Physical Vapour Deposition (or electroplating). All this is topped by a light coat of varnish.
Rolex watches are not merely pretty little things for the rich and famous to flaunt; these are also reliable, practical and versatile wrist devices that are meant to be worn and enjoyed.
In an era where lots of brands are still pushing ladies watches with quartz movements and low water-resistance, it is comforting to note that the Rolex Datejust 31 features a screw-down case back and winding crown with Twinlock double waterproofness system that ensure the welcome 100m water-resistance.
That’s All Folks!
With Valentine’s Day 2022 round the corner, it’s time to enthral the lady in your life.
On the wrist, the Rolex Datejust 31 Aubergine is a magical moment that combines femininity, elegance and watchmaking to create a picture-perfect marriage of both the mind (horological excellence) and the body (with aesthetics that demand love at first sight).
To find out more about the Rolex Datejust 31 and other Rolex timepieces, please head to there website here, or visit their authorised retailer J Farren-Price Sydney at 80 Castlereagh St, Sydney (02 9231 3299). All images unless otherwise stated are ©WatchYaGonnaDoAboutIt.
