Is Rolex Datejust Water Proof? Answered!
The Rolex Datejust is one of the most popular and iconic Rolex watches ever made. First launched in 1945, it is not only one of Rolex’s most recognized models but also a cornerstone in the Rolex collection. With its wide size, dial, and metal options, there are more than 100 different Datejust configurations to choose from. In fact, you could say that this model has played a crucial role in the success of the brand.
The Datejust was launched as a way to commemorate the company’s 40th anniversary and it is, therefore, one of the oldest models of watches that still remain in production today. As the name suggests, the Datejust presents the date of the month. And in 1953, Rolex added its iconic “cyclops” crystal on top of the date window to magnify it and improve its legibility. This Rolex invention was actually an idea that was sparked after Hans Wilsdorf’s wife complained that it was sometimes difficult to read the date.
Today, the cyclops is one of the most iconic and distinctive features of Rolex watches.
The Rolex Datejust is not a part of the professional range. In other words, it is not a sports watch. Instead, it is intended as an elegant and functional everyday watch to be born throughout all of life’s different events and occasions.
But despite this, are Rolex Datejust watches water proof?
Rolex Datejust water proof
Throughout the years, Rolex has released countless iterations, references, and models within the Datejust line. And in traditional Rolex fashion, they have focused heavily on improving their longevity, performance, and durability. This has led to a number of key upgrades to the watch throughout the years.
The answer to whether the Rolex Datejust is water proof or not can be answered by looking closer at the dial. By doing so, you will find the magic words “Oyster Perpetual” printed on each and every single Datejust.
By understanding what these important words mean, we can understand its water-resistant capabilities.
Oyster Perpetual means that the watch has an Oyster case and is powered by a perpetual, automatic movement. So what is the Rolex Oyster case?
Rolex Oyster case – Datejust water-resistance
The Rolex Oyster case marked an important milestone for Rolex and the watch industry as a whole when it was launched in 1926. It was the first waterproof case for a wristwatch, enabled by an innovative and patented case structure where the bezel, case back, and winding crown screw down against the middle case. In Rolex’s words, it is “A symbol of robustness and waterproofness, it is a superb blend of form and function”. Thanks to a hermetic construction of the Oyster case, “all Oyster watches are guaranteed waterproof to a depth of at least 100 metres (330 feet)”
And since all Datejust watches have Oyster cases, there you have the answer.
The answer is, technically yes, But in the watch industry, the term “water-proof” is not used because nothing is ever completely water-proof. Instead, Rolex states that they are water-resistant up to 100m/330 feet. Therefore, there’s no such thing as waterproof as everything will leak eventually. But the Rolex Datejust is in fact water-resistant.
In other words, you can take your Rolex Datejust swimming and subject it to water without any issues, But before you do so, make sure the crown is properly screwed down. It is also advised to have your watch pressure-tested every now and then to ensure the water resistance of the watch. When serviced (Rolex recommends every 10 years), the gaskets will be replaced to ensure that it is completely sealed and water-resistant.
All Rolex Datejust watches have the same water-resistance
All Rolex Datejust watches have the same water resistance and have had so for many decades. The 100-meter water resistance, therefore, applies regardless of the model and year of your Datejust. But if you have a particularly old watch that has not been serviced or pressure-tested for a long time, it is advised that you have it checked and potentially serviced before you submerge it under water.
