Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm Value Guide

The 1980s Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm is a quintessential luxury timepiece featuring the iconic champagne dial and a signature Jubilee bracelet. As the first self-winding waterproof chronometer for women to include a date window, this Swiss-made model represents a significant milestone in horological history and remains a symbol of 20th-century sophistication.

What Is Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm Worth?

The typical price range for Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm is $4,000 - $4,800 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the 18k gold and stainless steel, specifically looking for 'stretch' in the Jubilee bracelet links.
• Presence of original documentation and the Rolex presentation box from the 1980s era.
• The clarity and preservation of the champagne dial, including the condition of the hour markers.
• The service history and mechanical accuracy of the self-winding movement.

How to Identify Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm?

• Verify the presence of the 'Cyclops' magnifying lens over the date window at the 3 o'clock position.
• Check for the 18k yellow gold and stainless steel construction specific to the two-tone Jubilee bracelet.
• Look for the Rolex crown logo etched on the winding crown and the clasp of the bracelet.
• Confirm the 26mm case size which distinguishes the Lady-Datejust from mid-size or men's variations.

History of Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm

The Rolex Datejust, introduced in 1945, was the first self-winding waterproof chronometer wristwatch to display the date in a window on the dial. The Lady-Datejust, launched in 1957, offered the same iconic style and precision in a smaller, more elegant size. It quickly became a symbol of sophistication and success for women worldwide.