Rolex

So I went to an AD here in HK the other day to have a look at the OP39, in both white and black dial. I thought that the curved bezel was doing wonders on the 39mm case, and I would happily wear either of these models. Plus, they had several of them available in stock, so no need to go through any of the nonsense of getting one name's down on a list and start waiting for years.

But as I was browsing through the displays, one model really stood out: the new Datejust 36mm. They only had it in two tone, which is not my preference, but even then I was really impressed by the proportions, and how "solid" the watch felt on the wrist, even on a jubilee bracelet. I am generally attracted to models around the 38-40mm mark, but I didn't think the 36mm of the Datejust wore small at all on my 17.5cm wrist. If anything at all, it felt and looked more substantial than an Explorer 114270. Granted the gold would add a bit of heft, but I think even on steel the watch would feel rock solid, between the case design, the super jubilee and the new clasp. That was a very pleasant surprise.

Now, among all of the recriminations surrounding Rolex introductions at Baselworld 2019 (TT Sea Dweller, paucity of other Sports models introductions), it seems that people have totally overlooked the fact that they are now offering the new Datejust 36mm in all steel, and with a variety of dials. I have literally fallen for this particular combination, which I find extremely handsome:

(photo credit: Rolex website)

I am really impatient to see it in store, around August according to that AD. It's got a lot of things going for it in my book:

- much better proportions than the outgoing Datejust 36mm (or the Datejust 41, for that matter)

- simpler / purer dial design

- waterproof to 100m, like the Explorer's / GMT Master's / Milgauss / Yachtmaster

- improved movement with 70 hours power reserve

- super jubilee bracelet

- easylink extension

- chromalight lume

- easily available (assumedly)

Now, am I the only one excited about this? Granted, some will feel that 36mm is on the small side, but with watches coming back to a more reasonable size, perhaps this is not an issue. And truth be told, this size probably fits 90% of the male population, and makes for an unobtrusive everyday watch. I'd love to hear it from the rest of the Purists community. What do you guys think?

More posts: 114270214270DatejustDaytonaExplorerGMT MasterMilgaussSea Dweller

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