Rolex Datejust vs Oyster Perpetual: which to buy pre-loved?
The Oyster Perpetual is the simplest Rolex: time only, no date, a smooth bezel and an Oyster bracelet. The Datejust adds the date with its Cyclops magnifier and offers fluted bezels, Jubilee bracelets and two-tone metals. Choose the Oyster Perpetual for pure, clean design; choose the Datejust if you want the date and more dressing up.
Reviewed by the Nuvinty editorial team · Fact-checked
Facts checked against brand sites, auction houses and specialist dealers.
| Rolex Datejust | Rolex Oyster Perpetual | |
|---|---|---|
| Introduced | 1945 | The line dates to the 1926 Oyster case and 1931 Perpetual rotor |
| Complication | Date with Cyclops | None (time only) |
| Bezel | Smooth, fluted or gem-set | Smooth |
| Metals | Steel, two-tone, gold | Steel |
| Sizes | 28, 31, 36, 41 mm | 28, 31, 36, 41 mm (34 mm in earlier ranges) |
| Bracelet | Oyster or Jubilee | Oyster |
| Median asking price | £11,226 (203 listings) | £8,325 (58 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 the date
- •You like a fluted bezel or Jubilee bracelet
- •You want two-tone
Choose the Rolex Oyster Perpetual if…
- •You want the cleanest, most minimal Rolex
- •You like the bright colour dials
- •You prefer a smooth bezel and Oyster bracelet
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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 Oyster Perpetual listings
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Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 6517 26mm Ladies Two-Tone Fluted Date 1969 with Box£4,986.70 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 26 176200 Grape Dial Stainless Steel 2020 Box & Papers£4,495.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41mm 124300 2021 Black Dial - Full Set Rolex OP41£6,286.70 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 176200 - 2014 -Complete With Box And Papers + Swingtags£4,200.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Datejust vs Oyster Perpetual: questions
Does the Oyster Perpetual have a date?
No. It shows the time only; if you want a date, choose the Datejust.
Which is the dressier watch?
The Datejust, especially with a fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet.
Are the colourful Oyster Perpetual dials common pre-owned?
The bright dials from recent years are the most sought-after; expect them to be listed at higher asking prices.
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.