The Definitive Resource
Rolex Datejust II Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to know about the discontinued 41mm Datejust, from reference numbers and pricing to expert buying advice.
Shop Rolex Datejust IIINTRODUCTION
What Is a Rolex Datejust II?
The first 41mm Datejust, built for buyers who wanted the classic design in a bolder package.
The Rolex Datejust II is a discontinued 41mm dress watch produced from 2009 to 2016. It was Rolex's first attempt at scaling the iconic Rolex Datejust beyond its traditional 36mm case size, and it arrived at a time when the broader watch market was shifting toward larger case diameters. The Datejust II combined the Datejust's signature features, including the date window at 3 o'clock, Cyclops magnification lens, and Oyster case construction, with a more substantial wrist presence that appealed to buyers seeking a modern, masculine take on the classic design.
Three core references define the Datejust II lineup. The ref. 116300 is the full stainless steel model with a smooth polished bezel, offering the cleanest and most understated look. The ref. 116334 pairs Oystersteel with an 18k white gold fluted bezel, adding a dressier edge without the overt warmth of yellow gold. The ref. 116333 is the yellow gold Rolesor variant, featuring an 18k yellow gold fluted bezel, crown, and center bracelet links for a bolder, more traditional two-tone aesthetic. All three references were fitted exclusively with the Oyster bracelet. Rolex never offered the Datejust II on the Jubilee bracelet.
Inside every Datejust II sits the Caliber 3136, a movement developed specifically for this watch. Based on the legendary Cal. 3135, the 3136 features a larger mainplate to accommodate the bigger date wheel, Rolex's proprietary blue Parachrom hairspring for temperature and magnetic resistance, and Paraflex shock absorbers for improved durability. The power reserve is 48 hours. In 2016, Rolex replaced the Datejust II with the Datejust 41, which retained the 41mm case size but refined the proportions and introduced the next-generation Caliber 3235 with a 70-hour power reserve.
AT A GLANCE
Rolex Datejust II Review
Everything you need to know before buying a Rolex Datejust II, summarized for buyers short on time.
The Rolex Datejust II is for the buyer who wants a 41mm Rolex dress watch at a price point the current Datejust 41 cannot match on the secondary market. It is one of the most accessible entry points into modern, full-size Rolex ownership.
Produced from 2009 to 2016, the Datejust II was a short-lived but significant chapter in Datejust history. It proved there was serious demand for a larger Datejust, paving the way for the Datejust 41 that replaced it. The discontinuation means every Datejust II is now a secondary-market-only purchase, which works in the buyer's favor from a pricing standpoint.
Stainless steel Datejust II models (ref. 116300) currently trade between $7,500 and $10,000, making them one of the most affordable ways to own a modern 41mm Rolex. White gold Rolesor models (ref. 116334) sit in the $9,500 to $12,000 range, and yellow gold Rolesor models (ref. 116333) range from $11,000 to $14,000 depending on dial configuration. Complete sets with box and papers command a noticeable premium.
The central decision every prospective buyer faces is whether to buy the discontinued Datejust II or step up to the current-production Datejust 41. The Datejust II offers a bolder, chunkier aesthetic and significant savings. The Datejust 41 delivers slimmer proportions, a longer power reserve, and the option of a Jubilee bracelet. Neither is objectively better, and the right choice depends on your priorities and budget.
Secondary market values for the Datejust II have remained relatively stable, with modest single-digit movement year over year. It is not a speculative play, but it holds its value well for a discontinued Rolex at this price tier. Keep scrolling for the full breakdown.
HERITAGE
History of the Rolex Datejust II
A seven-year production run that changed the Datejust collection forever.
For over six decades, the Rolex Datejust existed in a single men's size: 36mm. While other Rolex sport models had grown to 40mm and beyond by the 2000s, the Datejust remained anchored to its original proportions. By the late 2000s, the watch-buying public was gravitating toward larger case sizes, and Rolex responded with two bold moves in quick succession. The Day-Date II arrived in 2008 with a 41mm case, and the Datejust II followed at Baselworld 2009. Both watches signaled a new era for Rolex's classic dress watch lines.
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Shop Datejust II CollectionTHE LINEUP
Rolex Datejust II Reference Numbers
Three references, three distinct personalities. Here is every Datejust II Rolex produced.
The Datejust II lineup is straightforward compared to the sprawling Rolex Datejust collection. Rolex produced just three reference numbers across the model's entire seven-year production run. The difference between them comes down to material and bezel style, while the case size, movement, bracelet, and water resistance remain identical. Understanding the Rolex reference number system helps decode exactly what you are looking at.
| Ref. | Model | Size | Material | Bezel | Movement | Production |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 116300 | Datejust II | 41mm | Oystersteel (904L) | Smooth, polished steel | Cal. 3136 | 2009–2016 |
| 116334 | Datejust II | 41mm | Oystersteel + 18k White Gold | Fluted, 18k white gold | Cal. 3136 | 2009–2016 |
| 116333 | Datejust II | 41mm | Oystersteel + 18k Yellow Gold | Fluted, 18k yellow gold | Cal. 3136 | 2009–2016 |
The ref. 116300 is the most affordable and most commonly traded Datejust II. Its smooth polished bezel gives it a cleaner, sportier look that pairs well with casual and business-casual settings. The ref. 116334 adds subtle luxury through its white gold fluted bezel, which catches light beautifully without the warmth of yellow gold. The ref. 116333 is the most visually striking option, with yellow gold elements on the bezel, crown, and center bracelet links creating the classic Rolex Rolesor look. Dial options across all three references include black, white, silver, blue, and the popular Wimbledon configuration (slate grey with green Roman numerals), with index styles ranging from bar markers to Roman numerals to diamond-set indices.
Reading the Reference Number
"With only three references in the entire Datejust II lineup, this is one of the easiest Rolex families to shop. The last two digits tell you the material: 00 is full steel, 34 is white gold Rolesor, and 33 is yellow gold Rolesor. Once you know the Rolex metal codes, you can decode any Datejust II listing in seconds. I always recommend starting with the material and bezel before worrying about the dial. The dial is personal preference. The material is where the money is."
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Our team can walk you through the differences between the 116300, 116334, and 116333 and help you find the right configuration.
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How Much Does a Rolex Datejust II Cost?
Current secondary market pricing for every Datejust II reference, updated for 2026.
Because the Datejust II is discontinued, it is only available on the secondary market. There is no retail price to compare against, which simplifies the buying decision: the price you pay is driven entirely by reference, dial configuration, condition, and completeness (box, papers, and warranty card). Rolex raised retail prices by approximately 7% in January 2026, but this directly impacts the Datejust 41, not the Datejust II. That said, rising Datejust 41 retail prices can indirectly push some buyers toward the more affordable Datejust II on the secondary market, which supports its pricing floor.
Full Steel
Ref. 116300 — Smooth Bezel, Oyster Bracelet
White Gold Rolesor
Ref. 116334 — Fluted White Gold Bezel, Oyster Bracelet
Yellow Gold Rolesor
Ref. 116333 — Fluted Yellow Gold Bezel, Oyster Bracelet
Prices shown represent typical ranges for watches in good to excellent pre-owned condition. Diamond dial and mother-of-pearl configurations on the ref. 116334 can push prices well above $15,000. The Wimbledon dial on the ref. 116333 is among the most sought-after configurations and typically trades at the upper end of its range. Watches under $10,000 generally represent the stainless steel 116300 in average condition without a complete set. Complete sets (box, papers, warranty card) consistently trade at a premium of $500 to $1,500 over watch-only listings.
Key Pricing Factors
"The three things that move Datejust II pricing the most are material, dial, and completeness. The 116300 in steel is your entry point, and it is honestly one of the best values in the Rolex catalog right now. If you want the fluted bezel look but do not want the warmth of yellow gold, the 116334 in white gold Rolesor is the sweet spot. And if you are shopping for a 116333, pay attention to the dial. The Wimbledon and champagne dials hold their value better than the standard configurations. Always prioritize a complete set. I see too many buyers try to save $800 on a watch-only deal and regret it at resale time."
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Retail vs. Secondary Market
How buying a pre-owned Datejust II compares to buying a new Rolex from an authorized dealer.
Because the Datejust II has been discontinued since 2016, authorized dealers do not carry it. Every Datejust II purchase is a secondary market transaction. This actually works in the buyer's favor: you avoid the waitlist entirely, you have access to every reference and dial combination ever produced, and you benefit from prices that sit well below current Datejust 41 retail. The trade-off is the absence of a Rolex factory warranty, which is why buying from a reputable dealer with their own warranty and authentication process is critical.
For buyers considering a new Datejust 41 from an authorized dealer as an alternative, the comparison below outlines the key differences between the two purchasing paths.
| Retail (Authorized Dealer) | Secondary Market (Pre-Owned) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Datejust 41 starts ~$10,000 retail (2026) | Datejust II starts ~$7,500 pre-owned |
| Availability | Waitlist required, allocation dependent on dealer relationship | No waitlist, multiple references and dial configurations in stock |
| Selection | Current-production Datejust 41 only | All three Datejust II references plus every dial variant ever produced |
| Authentication | Factory new from Rolex | Dealer-verified (WatchGuys guarantees 100% authenticity) |
| Warranty | 5-year Rolex warranty | 2-year WatchGuys warranty |
| Vintage Access | None | Full access to discontinued references and rare dial configurations |
| Best For | Buyers who want the latest movement technology and a factory-sealed current-production watch | Buyers who want a 41mm Rolex dress watch at the best value, with access to specific discontinued configurations |
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Datejust II vs. Datejust 41
The question every buyer asks. Two 41mm Datejust watches, two very different value propositions.
On paper, the Rolex Datejust II and the Datejust 41 share the same 41mm case diameter. On the wrist, they are noticeably different watches. The Datejust II has a thicker bezel, wider lugs, and more prominent hour markers, giving it a chunkier, more assertive presence. The Datejust 41, which replaced it in 2016, refined those proportions with slimmer lugs, a thinner bezel, and trimmer indices, creating a look that is closer to the original 36mm Datejust's elegant DNA. Whether you prefer the bolder Datejust II or the more refined Datejust 41 comes down to personal aesthetic taste.
The mechanical differences are more objective. The Datejust II runs on the Caliber 3136 with a 48-hour power reserve, Paraflex shock absorbers, and the Parachrom hairspring. The Datejust 41 uses the newer Caliber 3235, which extends the power reserve to 70 hours, adds the Chronergy escapement for improved efficiency, and retains all the same protective technologies. Both movements are COSC-certified Superlative Chronometers, accurate to plus or minus two seconds per day. The 3235 is the more advanced movement, but the 3136 is proven, reliable, and fully serviceable by Rolex and independent watchmakers alike.
Then there is the bracelet question. The Datejust II was produced exclusively on the Oyster bracelet. The Datejust 41, by contrast, is available on both the Oyster and the Jubilee bracelet, which is the more traditional Datejust pairing and one many collectors consider essential to the model's identity. If a Jubilee bracelet matters to you, the Datejust 41 is your only option in this size. If you prefer the sportier Oyster look, both watches deliver it, but the Datejust II does so at a meaningfully lower price point.
"If you want the best value in a 41mm Rolex dress watch right now, it is the Datejust II. The 116334 with the white gold fluted bezel gives you 90% of the Datejust 41 look for thousands less. Save the difference and put it toward the next watch."
| Datejust II (2009–2016) | Datejust 41 (2016–present) | |
|---|---|---|
| Case Size | 41mm | 41mm |
| Proportions | Thicker bezel, wider lugs, bolder presence | Slimmer bezel, thinner lugs, refined profile |
| Movement | Cal. 3136 (48-hour power reserve) | Cal. 3235 (70-hour power reserve) |
| Bracelet Options | Oyster only | Oyster or Jubilee |
| Materials | Steel, white gold Rolesor, yellow gold Rolesor | Steel, white gold, yellow gold, Everose Rolesor, full gold |
| Price Range (Secondary) | $7,500 – $14,000 | $10,500 – $20,000+ |
| Status | Discontinued | Current production |
| Best For | Value-focused buyers, Oyster bracelet fans, bold wrist presence | Latest tech, Jubilee bracelet, refined proportions |
COLLECTOR CULTURE
Rolex Datejust II Nicknames and Dial Variants
The dial configurations and collector names that define the Datejust II market.
The Datejust II does not carry as many Rolex nicknames as sport models like the Submariner or GMT-Master II, but several dial variants have earned their own reputations among collectors. The Wimbledon dial is the most recognizable, and a few other configurations stand out for their rarity or visual impact.
Slate grey dial with green-outlined Roman numeral hour markers and a luminous bar index at 9 o'clock. Named for its visual connection to the Wimbledon tennis tournament court clocks. Available on the 116333 (yellow gold Rolesor) and 116334 (white gold Rolesor).
Ref. 116333, Ref. 116334
Blue Sunburst
A deep blue dial with a sunburst finish that shifts tone under different lighting. Available in both bar index and Roman numeral configurations. One of the most popular steel Datejust II dials.
Ref. 116300, Ref. 116334
Rhodium Roman
A silvery-grey (rhodium) dial paired with Roman numeral hour markers. Subtle and versatile, it bridges casual and dressy settings effectively. Found primarily on the white gold Rolesor 116334.
Ref. 116334
MOP Diamond
A rare mother-of-pearl dial set with diamond hour markers. Each dial is unique due to the natural variation in the mother-of-pearl material. The most expensive standard dial configuration in the Datejust II lineup.
Ref. 116334
Black Index
A clean black dial with applied luminous bar indices. The most classic and versatile Datejust II configuration. Pairs equally well with the smooth steel bezel (116300) or fluted gold bezels.
Ref. 116300, Ref. 116334, Ref. 116333
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Speak To a RepresentativeBUYING CHECKLIST
How to Buy a Rolex Datejust II
Five steps to finding the right watch at the right price from a trusted source.
Buying a discontinued Rolex on the secondary market requires a bit more diligence than walking into an authorized dealer. The Datejust II is not a high-risk purchase by any means, but following these steps will help you avoid overpaying or ending up with a watch that does not meet your expectations.
- Pick your reference and bezel first. The 116300 (smooth steel bezel) is the sportiest and most affordable. The 116334 (fluted white gold bezel) is the most versatile. The 116333 (fluted yellow gold bezel) makes the strongest visual statement. Decide on material before you start shopping for dials.
- Set your budget and prioritize completeness. A complete set with box, papers, and warranty card holds more value long-term and commands a stronger resale price. If your budget is tight, a watch-only 116300 in good condition is still a solid buy, but factor in the resale discount when calculating total cost of ownership.
- Inspect the bracelet and case carefully. Bracelet stretch is the most common issue on pre-owned used Rolex watches. Check for play between the links. On the case, look for signs of heavy polishing that may have softened the lugs or removed factory finishing. A lightly polished watch is normal. An over-polished watch loses character and resale value.
- Verify the dial and hands are original. Replacement dials and aftermarket hands are more common than you might expect, especially on watches that have been through non-authorized service. Confirm the dial code matches the reference number and that the luminous material on the hands matches the dial markers. If anything looks mismatched, ask questions.
- Buy from a dealer with authentication and a warranty. A reputable dealer will inspect the movement, verify the serial and reference numbers, and stand behind the sale with a written warranty. Avoid private sellers who cannot provide documentation or a guarantee. The savings are rarely worth the risk.
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Call Us Text UsTECHNICAL DATA
Rolex Datejust II Specifications
The full technical breakdown for all Datejust II references.
Case Size
41mm diameter across all references (116300, 116334, 116333). Wears larger than the current Datejust 41 due to thicker lugs and a wider bezel profile.
Case Material
Oystersteel (904L stainless steel) on all models. Ref. 116334 adds 18k white gold elements. Ref. 116333 adds 18k yellow gold elements (bezel, crown, center bracelet links).
Movement
Rolex Caliber 3136. Self-winding mechanical movement. 31 jewels, 28,800 vph (4 Hz). Parachrom hairspring. Paraflex shock absorbers. COSC Superlative Chronometer certified (+2/-2 seconds per day).
Power Reserve
Approximately 48 hours when fully wound.
Water Resistance
100 meters (330 feet). Oyster case with monobloc middle case, screw-down caseback, and Twinlock winding crown.
Crystal
Scratch-resistant sapphire with Cyclops lens at 3 o'clock providing 2.5x magnification of the date display.
Bezel
Ref. 116300: smooth, polished Oystersteel. Ref. 116334: fluted, 18k white gold. Ref. 116333: fluted, 18k yellow gold.
Bracelet
Oyster bracelet (three-piece solid links) with Oysterclasp and Easylink 5mm comfort extension. Polished center links on all configurations. Jubilee bracelet was never offered on the Datejust II.
Dial Options
Black, white, silver, blue, rhodium (grey), champagne, and Wimbledon (slate grey with green Roman numerals). Index styles include bar markers, Roman numerals, Arabic numerals, and diamond-set indices depending on reference and configuration.
