Strap Guide: Rolex Datejust

Introduced in 1945 to mark Rolex’s 40th anniversary, the Datejust is one of those watches that feels almost too familiar to be appreciated properly. It doesn’t shout for attention and it doesn’t try to be trendy, but quietly, it set the template for what a modern everyday watch should be. Love it or overlook it, chances are your idea of a “classic watch” has been shaped by the Datejust in some way.

When it first launched, the Datejust was a genuine technical milestone. It was the first automatic wristwatch with a date display that changed instantly at midnight. That might sound unremarkable today, but back then it was a big deal. Date displays existed, but they were clunky, slow to change, or required manual adjustment. Rolex solved that problem cleanly and practically, which pretty much sums up their approach to watchmaking.

What’s interesting is how different the earliest Datejusts look compared to what we’re used to now. There was no Cyclops magnifier over the date window, something that wouldn’t appear until 1953. The “Datejust” text on the dial also came later. Those early models feel a little more understated, almost experimental, but you can already see the DNA that would define the watch for decades. Even then, Rolex knew they were onto something.

Jubilee bracelet

Alongside the date complication, the Datejust debuted another icon: the Jubilee bracelet. Designed specifically for this model, the five-link Jubilee was meant to be more comfortable and dressier than the Oyster bracelet. It drapes nicely around the wrist, feels smoother, and gives the watch a slightly more refined look.

Fast forward to today and the Jubilee is still very much part of the Datejust’s identity. In fact, it’s become so recognisable that people will sometimes ask if you’re wearing a Rolex just because they spot a Jubilee bracelet, even if the watch isn’t one. That’s how closely the two are linked. Personally, it’s hard to imagine a Datejust without it. You can put the watch on an Oyster bracelet, sure, but it never quite feels the same.

That said, one of the Datejust’s biggest strengths is how well it takes to strap changes. Swap out the bracelet and you unlock a completely different personality.

Trimfit Classic Black

Putting the Datejust on a black rubber strap instantly tones things down. It loses some of the shine and becomes more low-key, but in a good way. A Trimfit Classic Rubber Strap in black keeps the watch looking clean and modern, while making it far more relaxed and wearable day to day.

This setup works especially well if you love the Datejust design but don’t always want that “Rolex flash” on your wrist. The polished case and fluted bezel still do their thing, but the rubber strap balances it out. It’s practical, comfortable, and surprisingly versatile, especially in hot or humid weather.

Croc Embossed Leather Strap

On the flip side, if you want to lean into the Datejust’s dressy side, a croc-embossed leather strap does the job effortlessly. This is the kind of pairing that feels right at a formal event, a wedding, or a nice dinner. The texture of the strap adds depth, while the overall look stays elegant and restrained.

What I like about this combination is how natural it feels. The Datejust has always lived in that grey area between dress watch and daily wearer. A croc-embossed strap just nudges it a little further toward the formal end without turning it into something it isn’t.

Sea Snake Leather Strap

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, the Datejust can absolutely handle colour. Pairing a black dial Datejust with a sea snake leather strap in jade adds a pop of personality without going overboard. The green contrasts beautifully with the black dial and steel case, making the watch feel fresh and contemporary.

Because the Datejust itself is such a clean and conservative design, it actually works really well as a base for bolder strap choices. The watch doesn’t fight the strap, it lets it shine. This kind of setup feels personal and confident, perfect if you want your watch to stand out just a little.

Slim Horween Chromexcel

For everyday wear, it’s hard to beat a slim leather strap made from Horween Chromexcel. It’s soft straight out of the box, breaks in quickly, and develops character the more you wear it. The slim profile keeps the Datejust feeling light on the wrist, while the leather adds a relaxed, almost vintage vibe.

This is the kind of strap you throw on and forget about, in the best way possible. No fuss, no stiffness, just comfort. It’s ideal if you’re tired of steel bracelets and want something easy that still looks good with pretty much anything.

Why the Datejust remains relevant

The reason the Datejust has lasted this long isn’t because of one clever feature or design trick. It’s because everything about it just works. The size is right, the design is balanced, and it adapts effortlessly to different straps, outfits, and situations. You can wear it to the office, to dinner, or just running errands, and it never feels out of place.

Rolex’s slow, steady approach to updating the Datejust also plays a big part. Rather than chasing trends, the watch evolves gradually. That’s why older models don’t feel dated and new ones don’t feel flashy. There’s a sense of continuity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

In the end, the Datejust isn’t exciting in the way a brand-new release might be, but that’s kind of the point. It’s a watch you grow into and keep coming back to. Whether it’s on a Jubilee bracelet, rubber, leather, or something more colourful, the Datejust always feels like it belongs. And that’s exactly why it remains one of the most loved and recognisable watches ever made.