Rolex Datejust 78240

Buying Advice

About the Rolex Datejust 78240

The Rolex Datejust 78240 is a 31mm midsize Datejust reference produced from the late 1990s through the mid-2000s, defined by its all-Oystersteel construction, smooth domed steel bezel, sapphire crystal, and the upgraded Caliber 2235 movement. It is the most accessible entry point into the modern midsize Datejust line and one of the cleanest, most understated Datejusts Rolex has ever produced. At WatchGuys, we carry pre-owned Rolex Datejust 78240 watches across a range of dial colors including silver, white Roman, black, and salmon, on either the Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. Every Rolex 78240 listed in our Rolex watches collection is authenticated by our in-house watchmakers and ships with a 2-year warranty.

What Makes the Rolex Datejust 78240 Unique

The 78240 sits at the intersection of two important Rolex transitions. First, it is the all-stainless-steel midsize Datejust with a smooth domed steel bezel, the cleanest and most understated configuration in the 31mm size. Buyers cross-shopping the smooth-bezel 78240 against the fluted-bezel 78274 are choosing between a sportier monochrome look and a dressier two-tone look that adds white gold to the bezel. Second, the 78240 was the first midsize Datejust to receive the upgraded Caliber 2235 movement, which replaced the Caliber 2135 used in the prior 68xxx generation. The 2235 introduced a paramagnetic Parachrom hairspring, 28 jewels, and improved shock resistance, making it a meaningful technical step forward. The 78240 is part of our broader Rolex Datejust 31 collection and a frequent destination for shoppers browsing the women's Rolex selection.

Rolex Datejust 78240 Price

Pre-owned Rolex Datejust 78240 prices typically range from approximately $3,500 to $5,500+ depending on condition, dial, bracelet, and accessories. Standard silver and white dial examples on the Oyster bracelet sit in the lower half of the range. Salmon dials, jubilee anniversary dials, mother-of-pearl, and aftermarket diamond configurations push pricing higher. According to WatchCharts data, the 78240 has appreciated approximately 28.1% over the past five years, outperforming the broader Rolex Datejust collection by 10.7% and the overall watch market by 15.9%. The reference also ranks in the top 9% of all tracked watches by sales volume, reflecting consistent collector demand. For wider Datejust pricing context across all sizes and generations, see our Rolex Datejust buying guide.

Rolex 78240 vs. 78274 vs. 178240

The 78240 sits between two important reference points. Within the same five-digit generation, the sister reference 78274 is the closest comparison: identical 31mm Oystersteel case, same Caliber 2235 movement, same Jubilee or Oyster bracelet options. The single difference is the bezel. The 78240 has a smooth domed steel bezel for a clean, monochrome look. The 78274 has a fluted 18k white gold bezel for a dressier appearance with a touch of precious metal. The 78274 trades at a moderate premium because of the white gold content. Stepping forward a generation, the Rolex Datejust 178240 is the six-digit successor with the same smooth bezel and Caliber 2235 movement, but with a heavier solid-link bracelet and refined construction. For the fluted-bezel six-digit equivalent, the Rolex Datejust 178274 is the direct counterpart. Buyers who prioritize the most accessible entry into a modern midsize Datejust typically choose the 78240. Buyers who want the heavier modern bracelet step up to the 178240.

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Why Buy a Rolex Datejust 78240 From WatchGuys

Buying a pre-owned Rolex Datejust 78240 for sale should be straightforward. Every 78240 we list is authenticated, photographed, and described in-house before it goes live.

Common Questions

Rolex Datejust 78240 FAQ

• What years was the Rolex Datejust 78240 produced?

  The Rolex Datejust 78240 was produced from the late 1990s through approximately the mid-2000s. It replaced the prior-generation 68240 and introduced the upgraded Caliber 2235 movement to the all-stainless-steel 31mm midsize Datejust line, alongside the sister reference 78274 with its fluted white gold bezel. It was eventually succeeded by the six-digit 178240, which retained the same smooth bezel and Caliber 2235 but added a heavier solid-link bracelet. Production year on a specific 78240 can be estimated using the serial number engraved between the lugs at the 6 o'clock position.

• How much does a Rolex Datejust 78240 cost?

  Pre-owned Rolex Datejust 78240 prices typically range from $3,500 to $5,500+ depending on condition, dial, bracelet, and accessories. Standard silver and white dial examples on the Oyster bracelet sit in the lower half of the range. Salmon dials, jubilee anniversary dials, mother-of-pearl, and aftermarket diamond configurations trade meaningfully higher, and full-set examples with original box and papers carry a premium across all configurations. The 78240 is one of the most affordable ways to own a modern midsize Rolex Datejust on the secondary market.

• What is the difference between the Rolex 78240 and the Rolex 78274?

  The two references are identical in size, movement, case construction, and bracelet options. The single difference is the bezel. The Rolex 78240 has a smooth domed bezel in stainless steel, giving it a clean, monochrome aesthetic. The Rolex 78274 has a fluted 18k white gold bezel, adding a dressier touch and a hint of precious metal at the top of the case. Both share the 31mm Oystersteel case, the Caliber 2235 movement, the sapphire crystal, and the choice of Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. The 78274 trades at a moderate premium over the 78240 because of the white gold bezel content.

• What is the difference between the Rolex 78240 and the Rolex 178240?

  Both are 31mm Oystersteel midsize Datejusts with smooth domed bezels and the Caliber 2235 movement. The Rolex 78240 is the discontinued five-digit reference produced from the late 1990s through the mid-2000s. The Rolex 178240 is the six-digit successor that replaced it, retaining the same case size, movement, and bezel style but featuring a heavier solid-link bracelet with refined construction and an updated clasp. The 78240 offers the more accessible entry point on the secondary market, while the 178240 trades at a premium for the modernized bracelet and case proportions.

• What movement is in the Rolex Datejust 78240?

  The Rolex Datejust 78240 is powered by the automatic Caliber 2235, a chronometer-certified movement with 28 jewels, a 28,800 vph beat rate, approximately 48 hours of power reserve, and a quickset date function. The Caliber 2235 was a significant upgrade over the prior Caliber 2135 used in the 68xxx generation, introducing a paramagnetic Parachrom hairspring for improved resistance to magnetic fields and temperature variation. It is the smaller-format counterpart to the Caliber 3135 used in the 36mm Datejust references and remains highly serviceable by Rolex and qualified independent watchmakers.

• Is the Rolex 78240 a good first Rolex?

  The 78240 is one of the most accessible entry points into modern Rolex ownership. Pricing typically starts around $3,500, which is below most other modern Rolex references on the secondary market. The all-Oystersteel construction is durable and easy to live with day-to-day, the 31mm case wears comfortably on a wide range of wrist sizes, and the Caliber 2235 is one of the most reliable movements Rolex has ever produced. According to WatchCharts data, the 78240 has appreciated approximately 28.1% over the past five years, which means the watch has held its value well as a discontinued reference. For buyers wanting their first Rolex without committing to a 36mm men's Datejust or paying a premium for two-tone or solid gold, the 78240 is one of the strongest entry points available.

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