Is vintage Rolex Datejust worth buying in 2021?

[@kevinbender5070]

Just bought my first Vintage datejust for $2850 USD. Comes with box and paper! Happy with it ! Stainless steel and from 1973!

[@COZY__BOY]

Hi! where may i ask

[@mark.namoco]

What’s the size in mm??

[@COZY__BOY]

@@mark.namoco vintage datejust most probably 36mm

[@stevejukic8166]

Great video, I bought a Datejust in 1975 because all other watches broke down on me and i paid 500 $ at that time. Today the technology has changed a lot and you can find sturdy watches which are lower in price. You will specially feel that you are wearing a Rolex when comes time to service your watch and pay for service more than you would pay for a good Seiko. Today makes more sense to buy a watch with an ETA movement because are cheaper to service. I did buy a vintage Tudor Big Block with a 7750 and a Rolex signed crown and case. This watch has appreciated during last few years to a price that is not worth buying today. Keep up the great work and enjoy your Rolex watches. One small detail. Keep your dog closer to the ground instead of showing us his underparts, its funny.

[@nickbyrne1962]

Probably one of your very best videos, Oleg - not only a great topic to choose, but it was also one that you covered very well, with your thoughts and considerations from several perspectives, delivered in a balanced, informative, and interesting manner. More videos of this style/format would be very welcome!

[@24hourstime]

Thank you for kind words Nick! I have a few similar videos planned:)

[@alfetta78franchino]

You are so right! I have missed the chance to buy my first Rolex two years ago and now the prices are doubled and that goal is little bit further. But... this same fact makes a new one instead of a vintage one a good choice.

[@michaelgoldstein5365]

I’ve had a date just since 1978. Bought it new. Runs perfectly and still looks great.

[@Bisley1]

How often have you serviced it?

[@denis888red]

I bought a gold 1950's Oyster Perpetual at a Christies London auction in the mid nineties. To this day, it is one of the most accurate automatics I own.

[@chad.haggerty]

Timely video (pardon the pun). Just finishing my first murder trial as a defence lawyer and I’m considering my first luxury watch. I appreciate your comments and perspective. I started this career later in life so vintage is desirable. The datejust and day-date are definitely on the list.

[@24hourstime]

Congratulations on your new career and good luck with the watch search!

[@peterlim5814]

I bought this watch in 1985, jubilee bracelet, and is still running well. No regrets. Good video

[@ItsNeverTooHot4Leather]

This is THE only Rolex that I actually would like to add to my collection. This exact one, the 16030 with the engine-turned bezel. It's a beautiful watch that I think puts modern Rolex designs to shame.

[@24hourstime]

I love this watch! You’re absolutely right, vintage Datejust is pure class. Good luck with your search man.

[@jeromef2001]

Why but a 1601?

[@ItsNeverTooHot4Leather]

@@jeromef2001 1601 is a nice watch, but I personally don't like the fluted bezel.

[@rogier7411]

1603

[@ItsNeverTooHot4Leather]

@@rogier7411 I'm considering the 1603 too, except it's got an older movement and no quick-set date. I do like its unique stepped dial, though. Can't get a stepped dial on modern Datejust watches.

[@gafakyusef6201]

What is the accuracy? Looks wonderful!

[@jacobgreenmanedlion1863]

I wear a solid yellow 18k Rolex 6085 Oyster Perpetual on a green vintage NOS tropic strap as my daily. It’s great for that, and the best part is I paid less for a solid gold Rolex than any new Rolex in steel! And yeah, I bought it recently for $4750 from a well trusted source!

[@weAllCin]

Just graduated and gifted myself an unworn mint vintage 18k gold twotone datejust and the answer in 2022 is ….yes love it so nice,classic and clean.

[@Pulsonar]

This is the first watch I’ve seen that looks so perfect it has crushed all previous nominees and virtually ended my watch search so that I can get on with my life 🙏🏽

[@dcee966]

I just got my datejust 1973 1603 and I absolutely love it

[@Greektourguide]

My 1st luxury Rolex was a vintage 1972 Air King which I have since sold. Your review about vintage Rolexes was spot on

[@24hourstime]

That’s a great first luxury watch!

[@mistermikeyjay]

Hello. Loved the advise in this video. I find your collection great variety and I agree with many of your decisions and reasons. But I can't lie ... watching you with Mr. Bond at the end of your videos always gives me a smile. Today's was so touching. Stay safe, and have a good day 👍

[@SgtHooch]

Another great video, Oleg. I totally agree. Rolex prices are crazy high and--sadly--have given up on the brand. On the other hand, I bought my first luxury watch last year--a Speedy just like yours. Current world conditions cancelled a milestone birthday and I finally pulled the trigger on my Grail Watch. Like you, I love it.

[@24hourstime]

Thanks Rich! Congratulations on your Speedy. Excellent choice!

[@larpy]

Just purchased a 1972 for $3000 I love it. Vintage are the best! Timeless and classy

[@John-wl9pg]

Great review and insights. I appreciate the conversation-style review. Also, where did you get the aftermarket bracelet?

[@triniboy05]

Nice video, appreciate the honesty. My first Rolex was a DJ36 16013 two tone. I wasn’t very knowledgeable and just wanted to say that I had a Rolex. I think that’s why most people go vintage for their first one, the cheaper barrier to entry.

[@24hourstime]

Thank you:) Great choice for the first Rolex. Vintage Datejust was my choice largely because of the cheaper price. Now they are so damn expensive.

[@triniboy05]

@@24hourstime definitely, it will be interesting to see where things stand in 5 years! Thanks for the content, as always.

[@nandakampmark9369]

This video was just what I was looking for - cheers, Oleg!

[@johnkollias6782]

Hey Oleg, nice video. I bought my first (and only) Rolex 2 years ago and it was a vintage Datejust circa 1974 with the 1570 caliber, engine turned bezel, sigma dial with white gold hands and indices, and aftermarket jubilee bracelet. These are beautiful time pieces and yes have increased in price amazingly. You are correct in that they will last forever and always be a classic. I, too don't wear mine daily, but I keep it in my rotation for wearing. I'm interested in knowing where you obtained your aftermarket bracelet.

[@24hourstime]

That’s a great version! I bought this bracelet on Etsy for around $100

[@johnkollias6782]

@@24hourstime Thanks, I figured it was Etsy. I saw this one awhile ago, wasn't sure how well it would go with my DJ, fit and looks. Definitely looks really good.

[@tristanhanselman6709]

Happy Sunday from Chicago, Great video and great advice.

[@24hourstime]

Thanks you Tristan! Happy Sunday from Vancouver!

[@officialpandaz1]

Is it worth repairing a datejust if I bought a vintage that might cost me as much to fix as it would to buy an Omega?

[@lucag.lisickza425]

some days ago my father give me his 7 watches collection, basically he wear 1 everyday for years, and im planning to do the same. one of this is a submariner that was given as a wedding present to my father in 1971 and he told me that is rare because red. we are not experts. the other watches are 2 breitling, 2 tudor date day(which are by far my favorite wathces brand ever), 1 omega aqua terra and 1 swatch system 51(a great underrated movement). vintage watches are the bed, in my opinion

[@jjlp215]

Hi Olek thanks for the review / opinion The aftermarket jubilee bracelet where did you purchase this ? I need one for my datejust Cheers from Denmark and keep up the good content 👍🏼

[@24hourstime]

Thanks Jesper! I that Jubilee from Etsy. It was around $100

[@richardthomlinson9137]

Thank you, some great advice. I have been considering a DJ 36mm as my first Rolex and have an AD that is willing to order one for me, silver or blue only but my preference was always the silver dial, what do you think re the colour of the dial? also Jubilee bracelet with fluted bezel or domed bezel? thanks again for your content, really enjoy your channel. Richard.

[@sprayed.]

Hello, where did you get your aftermarket jubilee bracelet from?

[@ViolinistWilliam]

Oleg, fantastic video. I recently picked up a 1601 also silver dial and would love to know your thoughts on cape cod polishing cloth on the side of the oyster case. I’ve got a few scratches and was hoping to buff them but not sure if it’s a good idea. Many thanks!

[@oscarmartinez5669]

Hi, did the aftermarket bracelet come with the Rolex logo on the clasp? I read that your bought it from Etsy, looks really good. I have almost the exact watch with linen silver dial, and same stretch unfortunately. Thanks

[@martinward7239]

I bought a 1970/71 1601. White gold bezel, hands and indices with a silver dial on a jubilee bracelet in 2005. For 750 quid(UK Pounds). I was born in 1969 and at the time had been looking for the exact one but 69/70 for my birth year watch and could not find one. Could find some but not the white gold 1601. I was travelling to Australia from the UK and I loved having a stopover in Singapore. Best Zoo ever purely because of the night safari. Whilst there I was browsing the places I had seen great watches before, looking for a watch for my fiancé at the time and drooling over the offerings in ADs. I'd decided on a Rado ceramic for her and called her to meet me at the store. Prior to this she had never had a nice watch at all. And she didn't really appreciate any of my watches. I was REALLY into diving back then.. She loved the look and style of the Rado. As we left she looked at the watches in the window, I had to be honest I just strolled straight in. 'Isn't that the same Rolex you've been wittering on about for years?' No box, no papers. Tried it on, asked for a loupe and to see serial number, then bought it. Mine has the 1570 movement. To be fair it has been faultless. I look after my watches and for 9 months back in 2012 it was my daily wearer. I wore it when I got married in 2008. I wore it for a weekend competing in a BBQ competition because I forgot to take it off and put a more suitable watch on. It had been polished when I purchased it and just before my wedding I had it lightly groomed and serviced by my local watchmaker and he told me the bracelet is from 1986. To me that is exactly what a quality piece should be all about when buying vintage, it comes with history. Why was the bracelet replaced in 1986? My guess is probably stretch. It was 15 years old by then and if worn loose it would probably have stretched. It also only had one service mark on the case back and that is 1986 also. I left school in 1986. Last September my watchmaker gave it a service and sympathetic groom as it was getting a little fast, I think it was +12s a day. Currently I've put it on to write this, it is +2s a day when worn and -5 when not worn. I originally had planned to keep looking for a 69/70 but now.. This is the undisputed king of my collection and I utterly enjoy picking it up, setting the time and date and wearing it. Not because it's Rolex, although I didn't look for another brand as my birthdate piece. But because it came with history. I have added history. It is the epitome of THE classic mans watch to me and in white gold is beautifully understated.

[@jnnknnn9244]

Thanks for a nice review. Just bought a brand new DJ41 from an AD, my first Rolex. Somehow the concept of the birthyear watch is appealing; it would be pretty close to your DJ… 🤔

[@marcocarr6708]

Great analysis and video!

[@felo6035]

Very good perspective and advice Oleg, thank you so much. I would like to add a new Explorer in the future (2 year window). I also like Omega Railmasters and the original Speedy. Thank you again and have a wonderful day. 👍👊👏🙏

[@24hourstime]

Thank you! Both Explorer and Railmaster are great choices. I want to add a Railmaster to the collection at some point as well.

[@michaelcastorino5184]

So when you say aftermarket jubilee bracelet can you be more specific??

[@JS-ev4xc]

I would say if one loves Rolex, just go ahead. It is the market force that supports this price level. Even the price level is high, the buyer will not be worried of great loss, if he needs to sell it, unlike most other brands, for emergency.

[@ballaz7307]

i Can’t decide between a 1803 Day Date Vintage or a 16038 Date Just Two Tone with Diamond Dial, i heard that the DD have a loose bracelet and is sometimes beat up but it depends on the Condition, whats your opinion??

[@Toetagman]

What year is this watch?

[@yankadi64]

Hi. Thank you for your video. I inherited a Datejust from my father who bought it in 1974, and I am looking for an aftermarket bracelet with decent quality, like yours. I've checked Etsy, but I am not sure which model is it. some vendors pretend it fits a Daytona and a dayjust, which don't have the same diameter, so I guess the fit will not be perfect. Would you mind sharing the link to your model ? Thanks in advance.

[@ozziemarks3228]

I bought my 1980 SS & 18K with Jubilee band in 1980. One month old...$1K from a guy who was going to jail in 3mo. Ive worn it everyday but twice cleaned, and its not failed me. Im on my 3rd crystal and 2nd band as Im hard on them. Thats why I bought Rolex. I went thru 5 or 6 good quality watches in 3yrs before biting the bullet and going to Rolex. I ski, surf, dive, wrestle with the dogs and grandsons, work hard in the ground and up in trees, every week. Ive recently bought a Rolex Cellini Danaos for evenings when I want a smaller watch and not attract attention from crooks in the city. BE AWARE that the street punks certainly take notice of what youre wearing. Thanks for the video. Yet, im 80 and Im way past you in my experiences with Rolex. Nonetheless, there's better watches for many uses, but no better day in and day out, than Rolex.

[@donniefore2531]

I just picked up a two tone 16014 with tapestry black dial. It's beautiful. Wish I paid 1k lol

[@ozziemarks3228]

@@donniefore2531 Its a better investment than most all cars. I wouldnt have owned one until far later in life had I not ran into a crook going to jail. The kicker was, it was legit. I got lucky. Its going in for its 3rd cleaning this week. I wear it less now, depending on where im going to be. They attract attention from crooks. I bought it for ME, not to show everyone what I have. Its tough as nails. The base model datejust was only about $1600 at the time. So the deal wasnt as good as it sounds today.

[@jimmyschiel3863]

Milgaus is my grail maybe in a couple of years until then I'm happy with my many Востокs.

[@oOoScarecrow31oOo]

For me, I would go for the OP as a no-date. But at the today's price, I won’t do it. Totally agee with all the points here. I would better go for a few Omega for vintage, and Tudor for a ’modern’ watch... and still have money left instead of buying a Rolex OP or DJ. ... well, on my way to Tudor for a BB36 or a 1926. 😎

[@HRM.H]

A 36mm two tone datejust will always be a grail piece for me but not for 7k euro..

[@MrBTDhimself]

The 18kt gold version 16234 is luxurious in my opinion

[@davidclinton5545]

The Speedy looks great on your wrist!

[@24hourstime]

Thanks David!

[@Ninono7878]

Awesome video as ALWAYS !

[@24hourstime]

Thank you very much!

[@IXIFrostIXI]

I actually think it’s not a great first watch . It’s amazing watch once a vintage works in the rotation

[@cleanerdetailsllc7789]

I bought my First Rolex back in January a Rolex Datejust 16013 36mm on an oyster band. I'ts about 30 years old and im afraid to wear it because it feels so fragile

[@danielzychniewicz2633]

Curious, how much did you pay for it?

[@canadianwatchmonkey3992]

I owned a Rolex Date Just 2 tone on a jubilee bracelet with diamonds on the hour markers. I had originally purchased the watch used but as new back in 1988 for about $3000.00 After about 7 years of daily wear the bracelet was badly stretched and learned that a new 2 tone jubilee would now run me $4500. I ended up selling the watch. I did think of having the centre links crimped but sold the watch as is for $3500.

[@24hourstime]

It’s amazing that you can wear a watch for 7 years and sell it with a little bit money left over.

[@arturpolonio]

Well done, sir! Thanks! Best regards to Mr. Bond.

[@24hourstime]

Thank you! Mr. Bond says "Hello!"

[@Eddyfromremaxltd]

3300 is and was dirt cheap for a DJ. In the Canadian market I’d guess you’ll get 5.5-6k retail and 4-4.5k wholesale.

[@magnacae182]

Very informative

[@officialpandaz1]

Does that datejust keep up with an iPhone clock? Or how much time do they lose?

[@donniefore2531]

Mine runes about +5 seconds a day....

[@officialpandaz1]

@@donniefore2531 how often do you have to set the time?

[@donniefore2531]

About two weeks

[@donniefore2531]

5 second is just an average on the position I test at. When the watch is vertical (walking position) it runs between 3 and 5 seconds slow. So depending on my daily activities the average could change.

[@rafgomez333]

I disagree. All those watches you recommend buying would lose their value and are not luxurious either, the Rolex DJ will always be a classic every-day watch. Maybe, for the price I'd probably put myself on a waiting list for a brand new Rolex OP 36mm (and once it comes, I'd sell the DJ) :)

[@jjlad5037]

What are those multi-colored square things on the shelf behind you?

[@24hourstime]

That's a set of of James Bond books:)

[@michaelriera6277]

A common Explorer 36 mm has an 18-24 month wait list . So it’s harder than ever to get a new msrp Rolex.

[@badabingbadabongdingdong]

Where did you get that aftermarket jubilee bracelet?

[@24hourstime]

I got it on Etsy. I think it was about $100

[@woonfaseng8737]

I JUST GOT 34 mm OP date of 5 number ref number. 5 number ref models of OP date and datejusts are not exactly that vintage as they have newer 1980s i think era movement and quickset date. the value and resale value will be slightly different from even older vintage also i think (both now and in future)

[@luna-rt4vx]

Wow I have the same watch! Mine has an oyster bracelet and I just ordered my jubilee bracelet from the authorized dealer for $1350 Canadian that should be coming in! So excited it’ll look like this.. but now I’m wondering if I should of got a cheap after market jubilee bracelet 😅

[@weeksy68]

Hi I have the exact same scenario , my DJ is on the oyster bracelet and I’m looking at a jubilee bracelet, who/ where did you purchase yours from and how much was the difference in comparison to the cheaper bracelet ?

[@luna-rt4vx]

@@weeksy68 I’m in ottawa. I purchased mine at the only authorized dealership here. They had to order it from Switzerland and it took a month to come in. I honestly can’t remember the difference in price vs a new oyster but it was minimal tbh, couple hundred bucks I think. The jubilee, looks so nice though, it makes my watch look brand new. Unless you’re a Rolex connoisseur , you would think the watch is brand new- especially with the glistening shiny bracelet. Everyone compliments my watch. In future I plan on buying vintage watches and just buying new bracelets, makes the watch restored imo!

[@weeksy68]

@@luna-rt4vx thanks , I am also toying with the idea of a Zealande strap as a daily wear and taking off the oyster , I purchased one for my seamaster and the quality is awesome , my Datejust is around 1996 , what a classic watch they are , I thought 36mm would be too small but it’s perfect 👍

[@nightshiftangleriloilo]

my dream watch sir

[@tristar333333]

Good video.

[@ColinLack]

I don't know what my first luxury watch will be! But speaking of new watches - remember that double blue Vostok you modded a while ago? I bought one! I'm planning some mods for it right now, what do you think, batman or Pepsi 12 hour bezel?

[@24hourstime]

That’s an excellent choice of Vostok. Right now I would do Batman. Feels like everyone is doing Pepsi so I’d do something a little different

[@ColinLack]

@@24hourstime I have my luxury watches down to 4 though just no idea what way to go with it. Though I do want to get a nice vintage watch in February though it has some very specific things it has to be. Day-Date complication 34mm - 38mm, linen dial and two tone. :P

[@airborneranger-ret]

Liked and subbed.

[@kevorknourian5442]

Awesome watch for ever

[@24hourstime]

💪 💪

[@rickker20]

I bought a 1601 two tone rolex in black face with diamond dial 1993 I paid $ 1,900 its worth now $5000

[@geoffreyward4743]

opening your video with full frontal nudity,thanks for that mate.

[@24hourstime]

😂

[@jimmyschiel3863]

I know a lot of people that wear a Date just or a Day Date everyday. 2 of them are tool and die makers. My attorney has one that is out of service +235 s/d it needs to go to Richard soon.

[@angelos6817]

Yo BOND!

[@danob2904]

the watch doubled in value in three years, but don't buy it.... sage wisdom

[@muhammetoz1433]

Merhabalar bana eski bir rolex datejust hediye etme imkanınız var mı ☺️

[@sonnypena194]

If one can afford it and their budgets good why not.

[@loriosterweil982]

Hello Mr Bond.

[@24hourstime]

Hi! 🐶

[@pepirebs7162]

DOESNT FEEL LUXURIOUS CASUE ITS NOT A TWO TONE 18K STAINLESS. THATS WORTH IT! SPECIALLY WITH DIAMOND DIAL!

[@senny_penny]

Пока могу купить себе только хомаж Ролекса на АлиЭкспресс 😅

[@justinhendren540]

Rolex will last one’s lifetime and beyond. Buy what one can afford and style one likes. Water resistance is not an issue for me if it is an older watch. Paying several thousands of dollars for a watch, why be an idiot and swim with it? If one can’t separate from one’s watch to swim one has deeper issues than I can address. I like my Rolex, but I don’t swim with it or use it to mow the grass. Take care of nice things and they will take care of you

[@jjlad5037]

No vintage watch should be your first. The service and parts could put you off watches forever. That being said, next to the 5513, a vintage DJ is on my short list.

[@24hourstime]

Oh man, 5513 is a dream Submariner!

[@danielzychniewicz2633]

Uh. My first is a vintage and I bought it already serviced and have owned it now 5 years so dunno what you’re talking about..

[@jjlad5037]

@@danielzychniewicz2633 Well Mazeltov to you!

[@janricomantuano3765]

noice

[@joseoliver534]

Grand father watch..... cyclop obvious....beurk

[@xHighRoller]

not worth it, 2-3 Years Ago DJ watches fullset was selling for 3-4k and some day dates for 10-11k today a DJ is 6-7k and a Day Date 16-17k 🥹 maybe one day they will fall again but idk