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Rolex Datejust 36: The Classic
The Rolex Datejust 36 is an icon in the world of watchmaking. Since its introduction in 1945, it has set the standard for the sporty dress watch. Its size makes it equally appealing to men and women.
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A Perpetual Classic
The Rolex Datejust 36 is an absolute classic and the de facto standard for the sporty dress watch. When it was introduced in 1945, it was the first wristwatch to feature an automatic winding mechanism and automatic date display. Its Oyster case also made the Datejust 36 water-resistant – a feature that is as timeless as its design. Thanks to its moderate diameter of 36 mm, the Datejust 36 is the ideal unisex watch, suitable for wrists of all sizes.
Rolex Datejust 36 Material Options
The current Rolex collection offers the Datejust 36 in stainless steel or two-tone versions in stainless steel and rose or yellow gold. The case and outer links of the bracelet are made of Rolex's proprietary stainless steel alloy, Oystersteel, while the bezel, crown, and middle links of the bracelet are made of gold.
The fluted bezel of the stainless steel Datejust 36 is made of white gold. This precious metal is also used for models with diamonds on the bezel.
If you'd prefer an all-gold Datejust 36, numerous yellow, white, or rose gold models are available on the vintage market.
Datejust 36 Straps & Bracelets
Rolex currently offers the Datejust 36 with the traditional five-link Jubilee bracelet or somewhat sportier Oyster bracelet, although vintage models occasionally come on leather straps.
Difference From Other Datejust Models
The main difference between the Rolex Datejust 36 and other models in the Datejust collection is its size. Other distinguishing features include the movement and the choice of materials and bands. The Datejust 36 is currently powered by the caliber 3235, which is also found in the Datejust 41. Smaller models like the Datejust 31 or Lady Datejust, however, are fitted with the caliber 2236. The latter models are currently the only watches in the collection available in gold and with the President bracelet made famous by the Rolex Day-Date.
How much does a Rolex Datejust 36 cost?
You can buy a mint-condition Rolex Datejust 36 on Chrono24 for between 6,500 and 54,000 USD. The amount depends heavily on the particular model. Older stainless steel variants like ref. 16014 or ref. 16220 are entry-level watches, while diamond-encrusted timepieces like ref. 116199SANR occupy the high end of the spectrum.
If you'd prefer a Datejust 36 from the current Rolex catalog, expect to spend between 9,400 and 16,600 USD, depending on the model.
A used Rolex Datejust 36 in good condition will set you back between 5% and 10% less than a new watch.
Prices at a Glance: Rolex Datejust 36
| Datejust 36 reference number | Price (approx.) | Material, bezel, dial |
| 116199sanr | 47,600 USD | White gold, diamonds, diamond setting |
| 16018 | 15,100 USD | Yellow gold, fluted, gold |
| 126231 | 12,400 USD | Stainless steel, rose gold, fluted, white |
| 116234 | 11,900 USD | Stainless steel, fluted, green |
| 126200 | 9,500 USD | Stainless steel, polished, black |
| 16220 | 6,100 USD | Stainless steel, fluted, white |
FAQs
Is the Rolex Datejust 36 a men's or a women's watch?
With its relatively universal size of 36 mm, the Rolex Datejust 36 fits most wrists and can be worn by just about anyone.
What's the resale value of the Rolex Datejust 36?
Like almost all Rolex watches, the Datejust 36 is extremely stable in terms of investment, with an average increase in value of 5% to 20% between January 2021 and January 2024, depending on the variant.
What dial options are available for the Rolex Datejust 36?
The Rolex Datejust 36 offers a wide range of dials, from classic black, white, silver, or gold to various shades of red, blue, green, and brown, with a choice of simple hour markers, Roman numerals, or diamond indices.