A black dial Rolex Datejust II on TimeCaptain’s wrist.

Earlier this year, I blogged about The Rolex Dilemma. And yesterday, I actually acquired a Rolex! But wait – let’s rewind a bit.

OK, so you read my original blog. Around the time of that blog, my wife had become interested in having a proper mechanical timepiece herself. So I started shopping for, and reading about ladies timepieces. It didn’t take long for me to zero in on the Rolex Lady Datejust in 31 mm. During this process, I began to have a new appreciation for Rolex and my wife fell for the Lady Datejust with a silver floral dial. On her tiny wrist, the 31 mm is just superb. But what makes this subtle piece so impressive is the sheer quality of it.

And that’s what Rolex are all about, as I blogged about originally. Some models are hideous and some are OK, but all Rolex models are fabulous quality. I believe Rolex actually manufacture every component of their watches themselves. I know they have their own mines and foundries to forge their own steel so they can have full control over the quality. You just don’t get that with other watches – many companies outsource everything. Their products may be excellent… but probably not at Rolex levels. Seeing that gorgeous stainless steel masterpiece on my wife’s wrist made me want one myself – perhaps even that man’s equivalent piece.

Mrs. TimeCaptain’s Rolex Lady Datejust

I have a couple of friends who have different models of the Rolex Datejust II men’s 41mm piece and the version with a smooth bezel and ”stick” dial has been a favorite of mine ever since it came out. And here’s a funny story. Around the time of the release of the DJ2, I was at a funeral. My phone rang and I went into the lobby to take the call because it was WatchPaper friend and contributor, FormulaTime, and I knew it could be urgent. He says, ”They listened to us. They did it. Rolex launched a 41 mm Datejust.” And that’s how I learned of the DJ2. Now that is a true story. FormulaTime later bought a DJ2 and I liked it, even though I was into larger pieces. But the seed was planted. I had found MY Rolex and it was the DJ2.

The story of my own DJ2 is also funny. My watch dealer e-mailed me over the weekend to offer me a sensational PAM00351, to which I replied, ”I love that piece, but I already have a similar PAM00359. What I really want is a Rolex Datejust II.” And he replied, ”I have a black dial DJ2 in stock.” We made a deal and I finally joined so many retired men in Florida in owning a Rolex – minus the white belt and long socks!

Rolex Datejust II

So now we have his and hers Rolex. No, it’s not silly… it’s cool! And how do I like the DJ2 after 2 days and after years of wearing huge timepieces?

The DJ2 is a very modest size and quite a conservative style. It is understated and elegant. Mine has the stick dial with sticks marking 5, 10, etc. But above the sticks are very small numerals 5, 10, etc. and tiny lines marking each minute in between. This fantastic design element adds a little sporty touch to the piece- subtle yet effective. The same is true for the Rolex writing. The hands are just perfect in design and the lume is incredible. I don’t care for the date magnifier, but that is a classic Rolex feature. Although modest in size, the steel case and bracelet scream quality and this is what I like the most. The case is thin and the proportions make it incredibly ideal for dressy situations and business suits. I am crazy for huge Panerai, but I am also crazy for the subtle and discreet Rolex – it says, ”I don’t need to measure 48 mm or have a crazy design because I am just so damned high end that I don’t need to advertise it.” A stainless steel piece is versatile – it matches any colors and it can be dressy and casual while withstanding water. The Rolex DJ2 is an all-purpose everyday piece, although it certainly leans toward being more dressy.

Rolex Datejust II: an all-purpose everyday piece.

And how about performance? The DJ2 uses a fabulous in-house movement, of course. After more than 24 hours, my Rolex has lost just under 2 seconds, which is excellent. I have not been able to test the power resrve yet. The DJ2 has a sweeping seconds which moves with a beautiful smooth motion. So far, we’re looking at about nearly the best performance I’ve ever experienced in a mechanical piece.

The famous stainless steel Oyster bracelet of the Datejust II.

So is TimeCaptain a Rolex guy now? He and Mrs. TimeCaptain both sport matching Rollies. Well, I certainly appreciate the brand and for me, the DJ2 was the perfect complement to my collection. As much as I like my other pieces, sometimes you just want a quiet, understated, yet high end timepiece to enjoy while you conduct business and attend meetings. Sometimes, you just crave a real piece of quality with a rich history without broadcasting as obviously. Sometimes, you just want a Rolex. And let’s not forget that Rolex are now the official timepiece of Formula 1, so that’s a nice bonus.

So there you have it, people. I should also add the Rolex actually offers exceptional value compared to its competitors. So perhaps you should take a closer look at Rolex for your next acquisition. As always, the fun is in the search.

Yours truly,

TimeCaptain