Rolex Oyster Perpetual and Oyster Perpetual Datejust: Elegant Wrist Companions for Modern Mums

We present four watches — a Rolex Oyster Perpetual and three Oyster Perpetual Datejust models — that keep perfect time no matter the activity.

Engraved on a sunray finish dial base using high-technology equipment called a femtosecond laser. This technology produces no heat and etches the surface of the dial very precisely and selectively, to produce the palm motif patterns of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36. These patterns are only a few tenths of a micrometre (micron) deep. Image: Rolex

Mothers are amazing, and as each day wears on, they often find themselves wearing multiple hats, taking on all that life has to offer. It is therefore important that she has a robust timepiece, keeping track of time without skipping a beat whilst resting elegantly on her wrist, perfectly complementing every get-up. Instantly recognisable, you are able to configure both the Rolex Oyster Perpetual and Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust watches to find the perfect combination that suits your lifestyle.

Here, we take a look at three Datejust models: two Datejust 36 models in Everose Rolesor (a combination of Oystersteel and 18 ct Everose gold), and one Datejust 31 in Oystersteel. A further Oyster Perpetual 34 in Oystersteel with a pink sunray finish dial completes the selection this week. Once again, nothing beats trying on the watch to find the perfect fit that meets all the requirements of your busy and multi-faceted day.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust

With a wide range of combinations, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust captures the personality of its wearer. Can be partially or fully set with brilliant-cut diamonds selected by in-house experts. Image: Rolex

The epitome of the classic watch, the Datejust is a hallmark of horological excellence and versatility, exuding timeless elegance and perfect for daily wear. It is a robust and trusty timekeeper, as its 100 metre (330 feet) waterproofness rating demonstrates. Such qualities go well beyond what is expected for typical three-handers with date, especially at smaller sizes. This extraordinary strength makes Datejust models the perfect fit for working mums.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 in Oystersteel and 18 ct Everose gold fitted with a silver palm motif dial and a Jubilee bracelet

Here we have a quietly charming version of the new palm motif dial introduced by Rolex this year for the Datejust collection. Designed to evoke the vibrancy of verdant tropical forests, the cool silver hues of the palm motif dial contrast strongly with the warmth of the 18 ct Everose gold elements, including the hands, hour markers, fluted bezel, crown and Jubilee bracelet central links. The Oystersteel frame of the 36 mm case and the bracelet add to the effect. This juxtaposition of two precious alloys, patented by Rolex in 1933 and named Rolesor, not only brings harmony to the watch, but also adds depth and dimension. You could think of it as a functional watch dressed up in luxurious fittings that does not compromise on style and functionality.

The Jubilee bracelet is famous in its own right — as much a trademark of Rolex as is the fluted design of the bezel. Note the solid five-piece link construction, which ensures a peerless fit. The self-winding calibre 3235 that powers this watch was entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. A movement at the forefront of watchmaking technology, it was first released in 2015 and the Datejust 36 model has been equipped with it since 2018. 

Discover more of the Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 with a silver palm motif dial

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 in Oystersteel and 18 ct Everose gold featuring a slate, diamond-set dial and a Jubilee bracelet

If Rolesor adds a certain harmony in duality to the Datejust 36, here gem-setting provides a dash of playfulness. After all, play is an important part of a mother’s life, and the right timepiece for her should take that into account. The 36 diamonds on the bezel may draw the eye first but it is the execution of the Roman numerals on the slate dial that commands attention. This is yet another Rolex signature that reveals the skills of the gem-setters at the manufacture, with a dedicated facility for gem-setting and dial-making in Geneva, the art of which we have previously covered. 

Like all Datejust models, this model is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification and comes with a 5-year international guarantee. Adding to the pedigree within this model is the aforementioned self-winding calibre 3235, which has a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, and is accurate to +/-2 seconds a day. 

Uncover the different facets of the Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 with a slate, diamond-set dial

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 31 in 18 ct white gold fitted with an aubergine, diamond-set dial and a President bracelet

The sunray finished aubergine dial of the Datejust 31 is obviously striking. It is obtained using masterful brushing techniques that create grooves running outwards from the centre of the dial. Add that to the sparkling symphony of this model’s 46 brilliant-cut diamonds set on the white gold bezel and that signature VI in the form of 11 diamonds and it telegraphs prestige. Each hour marker is crafted from white gold, as are the hands. The watch is certainly elegant and classy, thanks to its petite 31 mm proportions, but it also packs a punch with the Oystersteel of the case and Oyster bracelet adding comfort and refinement. You can comfortably wear this Datejust 31 for most occasions, despite the white gold and diamond elements. 

Rolex pays tribute to its own pioneering spirit here with its automatic calibre 2236, which you may recall sports the Syloxi hairspring rather than the Parachrom one. This is a little something that you cannot see, but adds untold value to the watch — the number of Rolex watches with this hairspring is relatively small. This is a movement at the forefront of watchmaking technology, and it is patented. The pitch and thickness of the hairspring vary along its length, and this actually helps it “breathe” or oscillate with greater uniformity. Better uniformity equals superior timekeeping. 

Explore the Oyster Perpetual Datejust 31

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 

Featuring a sophisticated finish, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual is a chronometer wristwatch in its purest form. Keeping with the finest traditions to ensure the most intense radiance and timeless style. Image: Rolex

The purest expression of the Oyster concept, the Oyster Perpetual’s versatility is acknowledged by all, and its form is today shorthand for everything a classic watch for the modern professional should be. Watches in the Oyster Perpetual range are direct descendants of the original Oyster, the world’s first waterproof wristwatch, on which Rolex has built its reputation since 1926. These watches benefit from all the fundamental features of the Oyster Perpetual collection — excellent chronometric precision, a waterproof Oyster case, and a self-winding movement via a Perpetual rotor. Displaying hours, minutes and seconds, made exclusively of Oystersteel and featuring a sophisticated finish, these are chronometer wristwatches in their purest form. The anti-reflective coating applied to the back of the sapphire crystal on the new generation Oyster Perpetual ensures optimal legibility of the dial.

If you want watches that will last you for generations, the Oyster Perpetual is a collection you will not want to overlook. For the working mum, a watch like this is a sign of her effortless style and minimalist spirit.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34 in Oystersteel, fitted with a pink dial and an Oyster bracelet

It goes without saying that the Oyster Perpetual is one of the staples in fine watchmaking. The Oyster Perpetual 34, here with a sunray finished pink dial, is one of the latest models, having debuted in 2020. Despite the flourish of this refined dial the watch has managed to keep a few secrets — hidden depths as it were. The most significant secret lies under the dial, literally. This is absolutely perfect for the lady of the house, whose many lives might not be plainly evident to casual observers.

A three-hander with no date, the Oyster Perpetual 34 in Oystersteel is perfectly in-line with what collectors expect. The presence of the new calibre 2232 should appeal to the watchmaking enthusiast in you. Notable for this calibre is the presence of the same Syloxi hairspring that we covered above for the Datejust 31. In this Oyster Perpetual model, it marks the first time Rolex has used this technology in an Oystersteel model, and a first for the Oyster Perpetual range.

Take a closer look at the Oyster Perpetual 34

Visit The Hour Glass to discover your very own Rolex watch