The Rolex Date 36, particularly the models released in 2019, represents a cornerstone of the brand's enduring appeal. Combining classic design, meticulous craftsmanship, and unwavering reliability, the Date 36 stands as a testament to Rolex's commitment to horological excellence. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the 2019 Rolex Date 36, encompassing its history, design variations, technical specifications, market value, and a comprehensive hands-on review, complete with original photographs, to help you understand the enduring allure of this iconic timepiece.
A Legacy of Prestige: The Rolex Date and Day-Date Lineage
Before delving into the specifics of the 2019 Date 36, it's crucial to understand its place within the Rolex family. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust, first introduced in 1945, was a groundbreaking innovation, being the first self-winding chronometer wristwatch to display the date in a window at 3 o'clock. This simple yet ingenious feature quickly became a hallmark of Rolex design and a standard in the watchmaking industry.
The Rolex Day-Date, often referred to as the "President" due to its association with numerous world leaders, arrived on the scene in 1956. It took the date function of the Datejust a step further by adding a day display, spelled out in full, at the 12 o'clock position. Crafted exclusively in precious metals – gold and platinum – the Day-Date instantly became a symbol of power, success, and refined taste.
The Date 36, available in both Datejust and Day-Date configurations, offers a more versatile and accessible size compared to the larger 40mm and 41mm models. Its 36mm case size is widely considered to be a classic and universally flattering choice, appealing to both men and women.
The 2019 Rolex Date 36: A Year of Refinement and Subtle Updates
The 2019 Rolex Date 36 models, while retaining the core DNA of their predecessors, featured subtle refinements that enhanced their overall appeal. These included minor tweaks to the case proportions, dial designs, and bracelet integration. While not a revolutionary year, 2019 saw the continuation of Rolex's commitment to incremental improvements and the maintenance of their high standards of quality.
Exploring the Variations: Datejust 36 vs. Day-Date 36
It's important to distinguish between the Datejust 36 and the Day-Date 36, as they cater to different tastes and budgets.
* Rolex Datejust 36: This model offers a wider range of materials, including Oystersteel (Rolex's proprietary stainless steel), Rolesor (a combination of Oystersteel and gold), and full gold configurations. The Datejust 36 is known for its versatility, available with various dial colors, bezel styles (smooth, fluted, or gem-set), and bracelet options (Oyster or Jubilee).
* Rolex Day-Date 36: As mentioned earlier, the Day-Date 36 is exclusively crafted in precious metals – yellow gold, white gold, rose gold (Everose gold), and platinum. It's characterized by its distinctive President bracelet and the day display at 12 o'clock. The Day-Date 36 exudes an undeniable aura of luxury and prestige.rolex date 36 2019
Design Elements and Materials: A Closer Look
The 2019 Date 36 models, in both Datejust and Day-Date variations, showcase Rolex's mastery of design and material selection.
* Case: The 36mm Oyster case, synonymous with Rolex, is renowned for its robustness and water resistance. Crafted from Oystersteel, gold, or platinum, the case protects the movement from the elements and ensures long-lasting durability. The screw-down crown with the Twinlock or Triplock system (depending on the model) further enhances water resistance.
* Dial: The dial is the face of the watch and a crucial element in its overall aesthetic. The 2019 Date 36 models offered a wide array of dial colors and finishes, including:
* White Dial: A classic and versatile choice, the white dial Datejust 36 offers excellent legibility and a timeless appeal. It pairs well with various bezel and bracelet combinations.
* Black Dial: Another popular choice, the black dial provides a sophisticated and understated look.
* Blue Dial: Available in various shades, the blue dial adds a touch of vibrancy and personality to the Datejust 36.
* Champagne Dial: A luxurious and elegant option, the champagne dial is often paired with gold cases and bracelets.
* Other Colors: Rolex also offered Datejust 36 models with green, purple, and other less common dial colors.
The dials feature applied hour markers, often made of gold or platinum, and are filled with Chromalight luminescent material for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. The iconic date window at 3 o'clock is magnified by the Cyclops lens, another hallmark of Rolex design. The Day-Date 36, of course, features the day display at 12 o'clock.