The Rolex Datejust is one of the most, if not the most important models for the brand. One might say that the Datejust is the essence of a Rolex: simple, reliable, rock-solid, very well made and with a classic and truly timeless design.
After all, out of all its models, the Datejust is the most sold model.
And in that collection, there are different Datejust variations. One of which is the Rolex Datejust 41.
The Datejust 41 is the ultimate all-around timepiece, combining sportiness with elegance, probably making it one of the best Rolex watches for everyday use.
The Rolex Datejust 41 126334 Wimbledon is one of the watches in the Datejust collection that truly stand out. The Datejust 41 126334 is elegant as it is with its slimmed case, white gold fluted bezel, and Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. But the specific ”Wimbledon” dial is something else.
In this article, we’re focusing on the Rolex Datejust 41 126334 Wimbledon, but before we do that, let’s briefly go over the history of the model.
The Rolex Datejust was introduced in 1945. The Datejust at the time was a milestone in watchmaking innovation, combining a date function with a self-winding movement that is also a chronometer and waterproof.
The first Rolex Datejust was introduced for the 40th anniversary of Rolex, and the first Datejust was the reference 4467.
The innovation of a date window at 3 o’clock has had a significant impact on the watch market, and now you can see countless of other brands having taken notice as it nowadays has become the norm.
The original Datejust had a coin-style bezel different from the fluted bezel today. And at the beginning, the Datejust was only available in yellow gold. Then in the following years, Rolex also released the Datejust in rose gold, steel, or two-tone.
And despite the fact that the Datejust was released more than 70 years ago, the watch is still quite similar to the modern versions. Sure, they may have been improved for better reliability, better quality, and to meet the size ideals of today, but at its core, they are very similar. This just goes to show just how timeless the Datejust design really is.
The characteristic cyclops over the date window was actually not released until 194, which is nine years after its launch. Over the years, Rolex has released countless of dial variations for the Datejust, and slightly different models and references.
But despite this, the Datejust has always been a three-handed watch with a date window at 3 o’clock. It is safe to say that it has remained faithful to the original. Because Rolex simply does not change a winning concept. Only refine it.
To begin with, the name ”Wimbledon” simply refers to a type of Datejust dial.
This dial has become immensely popular over the years, mainly because it’s a lovely dial, but also because of the history behind it, which we will go more into detail of further on.
Since “the Wimbledon” is just a dial, you can find it in a few different Datejust versions. All of them, however, are in the Datejust 41 range. But it is only the variant made in steel and with a white gold bezel that has the reference 126334. The Rolex Datejust 41 126334 is a 41mm Datejust which features a fluted bezel made in white gold. Then there is a second reference, the 126300. The only difference is that this reference has a smooth bezel in steel instead of white gold. Then, of course, you also have gold and steel variants whose reference numbers either end with the digit 1 or 3 (yellow or Everose Rolesor).
Since all Datejust models can feature either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet, this can also vary with the Wimbledon.
Now, let’s look closer at the Datejust 41 reference 126334.
The Rolex Datejust 126234 is the updated version of the previous reference 116334. For the new reference, the movement is slimmer, as well as the lugs. This has given it a more slender shape which enhances the comfort of wearing it.
As the model name suggests, the watch has a diameter of 41mm, but because the watch does not feature bulky lugs like other Rolex sports watches, and is instead very slimmed, it wears relatively small.
The 126334 features the calibre 3235, offering improvements in terms of precision, resistance to shocks and magnetic fields, upgraded power reserve, now offering 70 hours.
The movement features the Chronergy escapement and the balance wheel is fitted with the Parachrom hairspring, a paramagnetic alloy exclusive to Rolex. It is regulated within tolerances of −2/+2 seconds per day or more than twice that required of an official chronometer.
When the Datejust 41 was introduced, it replaced the predecessor Datejust II, and the big news when this happened was that that the Jubilee bracelet was reintroduced. Previously, the Datejust II was only available with an Oyster bracelet.
Because of the comfort that the Jubilee bracelet offers, and the pure class that it radiates, the Datejust 126334 with Jubilee bracelet and Wimbledon dial is actually the most popular Datejust model in production in writing moment.
When it comes to the bracelet, Both the Jubilee and the Oyster bracelet feature the folding Oysterclasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link.
You will be surprised at how versatile the 126334 really is. While it was originally made as a classy dress watch for the gentleman, the modern Datejust has become so much more versatile. And in our opinion, 126334 is one of the best Rolex watches to wear every single day. Because no matter on which occasion, the watch simply works. From a dress watch, point of view, you have a classy, elegant, and slim-profile watch that is discreet yet beautiful. This allows the watch to slip under a cuff without any problems. From a sports point of view, you have a strong steel case with a 100m water resistance and luminous hands. Then of course, you also have the 41mm case with is larger and sportier than the traditional 36mm case. This should really be the best of both worlds.