Approximately produced for a limited seven-year window between 2009 and 2016, the Datejust II (Ref. 116334) represents a distinct chapter in Rolex history where the manufacture deemed it necessary to add an upsized variant of the Datejust. The 41mm stainless steel case features significantly wider lugs and a broader bezel profile than its modern successor, creating a substantial wrist presence, amplified by the light-catching white gold fluted bezel.
Internally, the watch utilizes the Calibre 3136, a specialized movement that upgraded the 3135 architecture with a larger mainplate and proprietary Paraflex shock absorbers to stabilize the expanded case mass. Estimated to the 2015 production year, this "Watch Only" example is fitted with the robust Oyster bracelet with polished center links.
Founded in 1905 by the visionary Hans Wilsdorf, Rolex was born from a singular, revolutionary idea: to transform the wristwatch from a fragile piece of jewelry into a robust, precise, and reliable daily companion. This ambition was masterfully realized in 1926 with the invention of the Oyster, the world's first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch case. Proven by a triumphant swim across the English Channel on the wrist of Mercedes Gleitze, the Oyster case established the foundational pillar of the brand's identity—performance and dependability in the most demanding conditions—a standard to which every Rolex is held to this day.
Building upon this foundation, Rolex went on to pioneer the defining features of the modern watch, including the self-winding Perpetual rotor in 1931 and the date-displaying Datejust in 1945. The brand then cemented its legend by creating the "professional tool watch" category, developing iconic models engineered for specific endeavors: the Submariner for deep-sea diving, the GMT-Master for intercontinental pilots, and the Cosmograph Daytona for the world of motorsports.
Today, Rolex positions itself as the universal symbol for success, quality, and prestige. As a fully integrated manufacturer, the brand exercises complete control over every component, from smelting its own proprietary gold alloys to assembling its "Superlative Chronometer" certified movements with uncompromising precision.
Overall Grade: 9 / 10 | Mint Condition, Light Visible Wear Production: est. 2015 Contents: Watch Only Genre: Dress Watch
Size: 41mm Thickness: 12mm Lug Width: 21mm
Case: Oystersteel case, mirrored and brushed finish, light visible wear Bezel: 18k white gold fluted bezel, light visible wear Dial: Black dial, applied white gold baton markers, lumed Hands: 18k white gold baton hands, lumed
Crown: Stainless steel, screw-down Twinlock crown, light visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystel, cyclops lens over the date, light visible wear Bracelet: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet, light visible wear Caseback: Solid stainless steel, screw-down, light visible wear Movement: Automatic Chronometer Caliber: 3136