Rolex Datejust vs Day-Date: which to buy pre-loved?
The Day-Date adds the day of the week spelled out at 12 o'clock and is only made in gold or platinum, usually on the President bracelet. The Datejust shows the date only and comes in steel, two-tone and gold, in more sizes. Choose the Datejust for everyday versatility; choose the Day-Date for Rolex's most formal, all-precious-metal watch.
Reviewed by the Nuvinty editorial team · Fact-checked
Facts checked against brand sites, auction houses and specialist dealers.
| Rolex Datejust | Rolex Day-Date | |
|---|---|---|
| Introduced | 1945 | 1956 |
| Display | Date with Cyclops lens | Day spelled out plus date |
| Metals | Steel, two-tone (Rolesor), gold | Gold or platinum only |
| Sizes | 28, 31, 36, 41 mm | 36, 40 mm |
| Bracelet | Oyster or Jubilee | President (also Oyster) |
| Best for | Everyday wear | Formal wear, a statement piece |
| Median asking price | £11,226 (203 listings) | £40,150 (29 listings) |
Asking prices across live listings from the partner retailers we index, updated 11 Oct 2026. Asking prices, not sold prices.
Choose the Rolex Datejust if…
- •You want steel or two-tone
- •You want the widest choice of sizes and dials
- •You want an everyday watch
Choose the Rolex Day-Date if…
- •You want a solid gold or platinum watch
- •You want the day-of-the-week display
- •You like the President bracelet
Prices are sellers' asking prices. Nuvinty may earn a commission if you buy through a link. How we earn
Pre-loved Rolex Datejust listings
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Rolex Datejust 31mm 178240 Blue Roman Jubilee 2015 Full Set Full Links Mint BOX£5,996.70 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Datejust Ladies 26mm 79174 Factory MOP Dial Fluted Bezel Jubilee Box£4,550.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Oyster Prepetual Datejust 16030 - With original box and full documentation£4,486.70 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Datejust 36mm 1995 Box & Papers Champagne Roman Dial Jubilee Ref. 16233£6,500.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Pre-loved Rolex Day-Date listings
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Rolex Day-Date 18238 18K Yellow Gold Factory Diamond Dial Box & Papers 1993£16,995.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
2004 Rolex Day Date 36mm White Gold Ref. 118389 Factory Anniversary Jubilee Dial£15,000.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Day-Date 36mm Platinum Ice Blue Dial President Watch & Box Ref. 118206£24,999.70 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Day-Date Olive Green Men's Rose Gold Bracelet Watch - 228235£41,950.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Datejust vs Day-Date: questions
Why is the Day-Date called the President?
The name comes from its President bracelet and its long association with world leaders who wore it.
Is there a steel Day-Date?
No. The Day-Date has only ever been made in precious metals; steel means Datejust.
What should I check on a gold Rolex?
Hallmarks, bracelet stretch and case polishing. Heavy polishing softens the lugs and lowers value.
Buying guides and more comparisons
Nuvinty compares listings from resale marketplaces and retailers and may earn a commission when you buy through our links. We don't sell or authenticate items; buy from sellers who offer an authentication guarantee.