Rolex Datejust 41 Reference 126300-0005
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust ranks among the most widely recognized, quintessential Rolex collections. First introduced in 1945, the Datejust is among the most successful timepieces ever created, a fact further enforced by the largely unchanged — but tirelessly perfected and fine-tuned — design of the original.
Today we are taking a closer look at one of the more straightforward iterations of Datejust: reference 126300. Clad entirely in Oystersteel, including its Oyster case, smooth, domed bezel, and Oyster bracelet, this simplified configuration is a study in monochromatic watch design.
Its immediately apparent simplicity should not be underestimated, however. Fully absent of color, it is one of the most fascinating and rare color combinations on any Rolex watch, making this a rare opportunity to possess a timepiece with the Crown, but no additional color.
When looking at the Datejust, one is advised to recognize the core elements that helped render it an icon in historic and modern watchmaking.
The flowing case profile that ends in downturned, smooth lugs, the domed, polished bezel that acts a precious and reflective veneer around the face, and a dial of a most focused layout with 10 equally sized indices, the Rolex Crown, the recognizable Rolex rows of texts… and the cyclops-magnified date at 3 o’clock, of course.
The extraction of color from this combination of endlessly fine-tuned components helps one focus on their inherent greatness, without any distractions. Furthermore, a crisp, white dial on the Datejust, set with baton indices, create a specific balance of sportiness and elegance that is rarely observed on Datejust.
No Datejust lacks the engineering and manufacturing details to be ideal for daily wear — their 100-meter water resistant and exceptionally strong Oyster case, screw-down secured crown and robust Manufacture Rolex Caliber allow them all to be worn every day, under any circumstances, without hesitation.
Nevertheless, with this particular white dial, this Datejust reveals a sporty side that is almost comparable to that of the Explorer — another historic and iconic collection of Rolex watches. Combined with the three-link Oyster bracelet, this configuration may just be the most casual and, despite its unapologetic freedom from colors, most vibrant Datejust models of them all.
Now powered by the latest generation of Manufacture Rolex Calibers, caliber 3235, it offers a highly extended power reserve of 70 hours, thanks to a fully re-engineered architecture and energy management. With the independent COSC chronometer certification and Rolex’s extremely stringent and all-encompassing quality control procedures, the Datejust proudly ranks as a Superlative Chronometer.
