A history of the Rolex Datejust 31 watch

Origin of the Datejust

Rolex introduced the original Datejust in 1945 to mark a company anniversary. This timepiece was the first self-winding chronometer wristwatch to display the date through a window on the dial. The early design featured a yellow gold case with a domed back and a small winder. It also used the waterproof Oyster case, which the company had previously developed, alongside a fluted bezel and a new metal bracelet. The model aimed to combine automatic winding with a highly legible date display, establishing a practical layout for daily wear. This design served as a foundation for subsequent variations in the collection, setting a standard for modern wristwatches.

Technical and design evolution

Over the years, the watch family received several mechanical updates. The date change mechanism, which originally shifted slowly before midnight, became instantaneous in 1955. The manufacturer offered the watch with two distinct bracelet designs, known as the Jubilee and the Oyster. While the initial version had a case diameter of thirty-six millimetres, the brand later expanded the line to include mid-sized and ladies' options. A variant with a rotating bezel, briefly called the Monometer before becoming the Turn-O-Graph, was also introduced during this period. These early variations demonstrated the versatility of the core design, allowing the brand to appeal to a wider audience of watch enthusiasts.

The Turn-O-Graph variant

The Turn-O-Graph variant, introduced in 1953, brought a rotating bezel marked to sixty minutes to the collection. This specific model served as the foundation for several other specialised watches, including those designed for mountain expeditions and deep-sea diving. The United States Air Force aerobatic team, known as the Thunderbirds, also wore this watch, which led to its popular nickname. The addition of the rotating bezel expanded the utility of the watch beyond simple timekeeping, making it a functional tool for pilots and adventurers alike. This development highlighted the brand's ability to adapt its core designs for professional applications.

Modern updates and case sizes

In 2009, the manufacturer introduced a larger version of the watch. Another update in 2016 brought a refined model of the same diameter but with a thinner bezel. This modern update also featured a new movement with a seventy-hour power reserve. The smaller ladies' watches were also updated, with a twenty-eight millimetre version replacing the older design. These changes allowed the brand to offer diverse options for different wrist sizes, ensuring that the collection remained relevant to contemporary tastes. The introduction of modern calibers also improved the overall efficiency and reliability of the timepieces.

The 31mm watch family

The Rolex Datejust 31 family represents the mid-sized category of this watch line. In our catalogue, this specific family includes models introduced from 2018. These timepieces feature automatic movements, utilising calibers such as the 2235 and 2236. The watches are built with a median water resistance of 100 metres, making them durable for daily activities. This combination of classic design and robust engineering defines the mid-sized collection. The size serves as a balanced option for those seeking a presence that is neither too large nor too small, fitting comfortably on a wide range of wrist sizes.

Straps for the Rolex Datejust 31

Finding the right strap for your watch requires knowing the correct lug width. For the mid-sized case with a diameter of 31 millimetres, the lug width is 16 millimetres. We offer 35 different straps that fit this specific width. A leather strap suits the watch because it matches its formal heritage, while a rubber strap provides durability that aligns with the waterproof case design. Changing the strap allows owners to adapt the timepiece for formal events or casual outings, extending its daily utility. This flexibility makes the mid-sized model an adaptable choice for any wardrobe.