Rolex Datejust – Reference No. 116234

A timeless classic fit for all occasions, while common to some and iconic to others. And the one we have here reference number 116234, is probably one of the more unique and beautiful Date-justs recently made, sized at 36mm with a clean white dial in Roman numerals and iconic white gold fluted bezel and classic jubilee bracelet with a fully integrated strap buckle.

The date just was first introduced in 1945 as the Jubilee Date just, Reference 4467, and originally released with this five-piece metal link bracelet, which the has become a staple of Rolex, and was at first only available in 18-karat gold and in 36mm.

Now onto specifications, this 36mm, houses a 3135 automatic movement at 44.3mm lug to lug width and 20mm in strap width at 11.5mm thick (excluding the cyclops) providing for 100 meters of water resistance covered in sapphire glass.

ThIs jubilee bracelet with solid and high polished links, when flipped around almost serves has a beautiful piece of jewellery and personally, is the favourite version of the jubilee simply because of the plush buckle design with a Rolex logo gives it a very you unibody and integrated feel , where I have even seen worn loosely or on the other side. Since we are discussing how bracelets are worn, just a quick tip for those who prefer to wear their bracelets either tight or loose, from a maintenance perspective steel bracelets that are worn loose have the general tendency for more wear and tear, as the extra space gives way for more stretching and tension

My general feeling about this watch is it’s very simplistic and suitable for those that appreciate Rolexes original design and roots. A more interesting point of discussion is the case size of watches which have generally trend from big to small and small to big and now recently more regularised in terms of sizes going between 36 to 40 mm, while day-dates and date justs have always been faithful to their origin, consistently offering the 36mm since their introductions. However my recommendation is always to select watches that fits you, while fashion trends may come, a watch that fits your wrist will be something you prefer to wear, and will always be a timelesss choice.

Some of the disadvantages of this particular model is the lack of lume for legibility in the darker and low light situations, as I suspect, to give way for the Roman numerals and an outer ring if you were to compare with other date just or sportier models. When comparing this to the oyster bracelets the jubilee bracelets sits much closer to the wrist with much smaller links lengths and allows closer fit and greater ventilation, but the style and the look is up to you personal preference. So what do you think about what this watch has to offer, share with us in the comments below.