Four Generations of the Two-Tone Midsize Datejust Rolex
Similar to other midsize Datejust Rolex models, the two-tone versions of the Datejust watches evolved over the years to include new features and movements while still maintaining its signature 31mm Oyster case and appealing combination of gold and stainless steel. Join us as we take a look at four generations of the Rolesor two-tone midsize Datejust Rolex to see what each model has to offer.
Two-Tone Midsize Datejust Watches: Mid-1970s – Mid-1980s
We’ll start with some early two-tone midsize Datejust watch models from the seventies and eighties. There’s the two-tone Datejust ref. 6824 with a smooth bezel and the Datejust ref. 6827 with the iconic fluted bezel. Of course, these being two-tone models, the watches feature steel cases with yellow gold bezels and yellow gold winding crowns. Furthermore, the center of the bracelets—whether Jubilee or Oyster—include yellow gold center links.
Both these two-tone midsize Datejust watches run on non-quickset date automatic movements, which means the wearer has to turn the center time hands to change the date in the window at 3 o’clock. Also, as older vintage Rolex models, the two-tone midsize Datejust ref. 6824 and its sibling, the Datejust ref. 6827, both have an acrylic crystal (with the Cyclops magnification lens) on top of the dial.
Two-Tone Midsize Datejust Watches: Mid-1980s until Late 1990s
During the mid-eighties, the two-tone midsize Datejust watches underwent big updates to include a quickset automatic movement as well as scratch-resistant sapphire protecting the dial. Naturally, even if the crystal material changed to sapphire, the Cyclops lens charged to magnify the date window remains.
The choices of a two-tone midsize Datejust Rolex from this era include the Datejust 68243 with a smooth yellow gold bezel and the Datejust ref. 68273 with a fluted yellow gold bezel.
Two-Tone Midsize Datejust Watches: Late 1990s until Early 2000s
Just before the turn of the last century, Rolex unveiled new two-tone midsize Datejust watches with the latest generation Rolex Cal. 2235 automatic movement – the caliber found at the heart of all Lady-Datejust 26 and all midsize Datejust watches since then.
In terms of style choice, there’s the Datejust ref. 78273 with the yellow gold fluted bezel and the Datejust ref. 78243 with the smooth domed bezel in yellow gold.
Two-Tone Midsize Datejust Watches: Early 2000s until Present
In the early 2000s, Rolex introduced yet another version of the two-tone midsize Datejust collection with revamped bracelets. These bracelets—again, either the Jubilee or the Oyster—were heavier and, thanks to an updated clasp, also more secure. This is the current line up of the two-tone midsize Datejust model and there are plenty of choices.
For the yellow gold and stainless steel two-tone edition, there’s the Datejust 178273 with a fluted bezel, the Datejust ref. 178243 with a smooth bezel, the Datejust ref. 178313 with a fluted bezel decorated with diamonds, the Datejust ref. 178343 with a smooth bezel with diamonds and the Datejust ref. 178383 with a full diamond-set bezel.
Moreover, new to the midsize Datejust family are the two-tone versions that combine Everose rose gold and stainless steel. Remember, Everose is Rolex’s patented rose gold alloy that promises to never fade due to its secret formula of gold, platinum, and copper. Within this set, there’s the rose gold and steel two-tone midsize Datejust ref. 178271 with a fluted bezel, the Datejust ref. 178241 with a smooth bezel, and the Datejust ref. 178341 with a domed bezel furnished with diamonds.
As we’ve illustrated, there’s plenty of choice for anyone looking to buy a two-tone midsize Datejust watch. Offering a very wearable size, a big range of price points, and different models that span over five decades, the two-tone midsize Datejust is a great Rolex watch for either men or women.
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