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Rolex Comparisons - Rolex Datejust vs. Rolex President

Updated: May 6, 2022

Two of the most popular Rolex models are the Rolex Perpetual Datejust and the Rolex Day Date President. Both are stunning timepieces, perfectly suited to any business and formal occasion. They are high quality watches with absolute accuracy and functionality. So how do consumers buy the one that is more suited to their individual needs and desires?


Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Mens Watch

The Rolex Perpetual Datejust was released in 1945. It featured a domed back known as the Bubbleback, which was eventually slimmed down to the prevailing back used today. A standard 36mm case was available for men while women could purchase a smaller 26mm or 29mm case. Mid-size cases at 31mm and 34mm are offered as well. The Datejust can be obtained in stunning Rolesor (a combination of steel and any gold), 18 karat yellow or white gold, and stainless steel. For women seeking a more feminine appearance, rose gold and platinum are available. Consumers can also choose between stunning Jubilee and Oyster bracelets, or a simple yet classy leather strap.


Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day Date President Mens Watch

The Rolex Day Date President was released in 1956 at Basel Fair. Like the Rolex Datejust, it features the day at the 3 o’clock position. However, unlike the Datejust, it also displays the date at the 12 o’clock position. The Rolex Day Date President is not available in stainless steel, though it is obtainable in platinum, yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. Bracelet options available for this Rolex model are the President bracelet, which features shimmering diamonds and a concealed clasp, an Oyster bracelet that can be procured in yellow, white, or rose gold, and a “Super Jubilee” bracelet presented in gold.


Despite the differences between them, the two models also share several similarities. Both feature a standard 36mm case and display the day at the 3 o’clock position. A Cyclops lens, which magnifies the date by two-and-a-half times is present as are scratch resistant synthetic sapphires. Both models are completely waterproof and exhibit a 31-jewel chronometer movement with synthetic sapphires or rubies to reduce the wear and tear caused by friction. A hacking feature and a quick set feature were both introduced into the Datejust and the Day Date in the 1970’s, with both features greatly improving the ease of setting times. Dials are available in Pave diamond, gold Pave Extra Large diamond, mother of pearl with ten sapphires or emeralds, and many other dial options. Bezels commonly used on the two models include a polished bezel, fluted bezel, channel set bezel, and beadset bezel.


Despite the many commonalities between the two timepieces, the Rolex Perpetual Datejust and the Rolex Day Date President are both distinctly different from each other due to their functionality, style, and appearance. However, they both exemplify to the highest degree the professionalism, precision, and reliability of Rolex.




Bert Levi Family Jewelers is not affiliated with Rolex SA, and nothing

in this content should be construed as an endorsement by Rolex. We

are not an Official Rolex Dealer, and if you are searching for a new

Rolex, you should visit Rolex.com in order to find an authorized

Dealer. We buy and sell pre-owned Rolexes only.

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