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A new variant of the Lady-Datejust 26mm, the new Lady-Datejust 28mm marks for Rolex the return to subtle and minimalistic style.
As the epitome of feminine elegance, Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm has always distinguished itself for its sleek lines, and uncompromising elegance.
Sometimes more a jewel than a watch, with its signature President or Jubilee bracelets, and with a diamond.set dial and/or bezel, the Lady-Datejust 26mm seems to have been put aside, in this last few years, in favour of bigger models – such as, for example, the Lady-Datejust 31mm or the Datejust 36mm.
As a matter of fact, the 26mm could be considered as “too small” an option for the modern woman, who needs for sure an neat, self-confident timepiece, but with a presence of its own, although discreet.
To then go back to the sophistication of a small, subtly stylish model, without compromising on size (not too small, but not even too big) here is then a new interpretation of the Lady-Datejust, today presented in a 28mm version.
The case has been redesigned, and it hosts a new calibre, the 2236: a mechanical movement fitted with Rolex-patented Syloxi hairspring in silicon, for a superior chronometric performance (it is certified to be twice as exact as an officially certified chronometer).
The remodelling follows the same aesthetic evolution of the new Oyster Day-Date – refined lugs and middle case, a broad and clear dial, as well as a President or Jubilee bracelet closely integrated into the Oyster case.
Renewal which also goes through major indicators, such as some new dials, and a new gem-set hours markers, absolutely lovely, which enhances the elegance and femininity of this exquisite model.
Veritable signature of this design evolution, the new watch faces and the revamped hour markers demonstrate Rolex’s unique expertise in the art of dial making, and are exclusive to the new Lady-Datejust, available in platinum, Everose and yellow gold.
My personal interpretation of this new launch is that Rolex is truly looking to please its feminine public by updating its smallest (and most elegant) model to a more modern variation, without loosing control of style and proportions.
From a strictly personal point of view, as soon as I saw the 28mm I fell in love with it, very much pleased by its new proportions, and enchanted by its new diamond-set hours markers.
However, once at Baselworld, and once admired the 26mm all together, I must say I looked at this watch from a new angle, revaluating its understated yet strong presence – the variation in steel and Everose, for example, with simple Roman numerals and no diamonds, is just perfect the way it is.
Some could argue then how to decide between the 26 and the 28mm. This is quite of a battle, not easy to be fought as it is all about personal perception and personal feeling of the watch on your wrist.
I will leave you with the dilemma, but I will also leave you by saying that the new Rolex Lady-Datejust 28mm is a new interpretation of a timeless classic, and a significant evolution in style, refinement and mechanics today’s demanding feminine clientèle will be very happy with. CC
Post by Claudia Carletti, Jewellery Through Time. Material courtesy of Rolex.
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