Rolex Datejust Size Guide: 26mm vs 28mm vs 31mm vs 36mm vs 41mm

Choosing the Right Rolex Datejust Size

The Rolex Datejust is available in five case sizes — 26mm, 28mm, 31mm, 36mm and 41mm. Choosing the right size depends on your wrist size, personal style and the look you're going for. Here's a detailed comparison.

Size-by-Size Breakdown

26mm — The Classic Ladies' Datejust

The 26mm Lady Datejust was Rolex's standard women's size for decades. It's petite, elegant, and sits close to the wrist. Perfect for those who prefer a traditional, understated watch. Discontinued in 2019 — only available pre-owned.

• Best for: Wrists 14–16cm. Those who prefer classic, feminine proportions.
• Key references: 69173 (vintage two-tone), 79173/179173 (modern two-tone), 69178 (full gold)
• Price range (pre-owned): $4,000–$15,000 depending on material and diamonds

28mm — The Updated Ladies' Size

Introduced in 2019 to replace the 26mm, the 28mm Lady Datejust offers very similar proportions with a slightly more modern presence. Features Rolex's new-generation calibre 2236 with Syloxi silicon hairspring for improved accuracy and reliability.

• Best for: Wrists 14–16cm. Those who want the latest Rolex technology in a ladies' size.
• Key references: 279173 (two-tone), 279178 (full gold), 279174 (steel/white gold)
• Price range (pre-owned): $8,000–$25,000

31mm — The Modern Women's Choice

The Datejust 31 has become the most popular women's Rolex size. It offers a more contemporary, statement-making look while remaining elegant. Available in the widest range of current configurations.

• Best for: Wrists 15–17cm. The most versatile women's size — works for both casual and formal.
• Key references: 178274 (steel/white gold), 278273 (two-tone), 278384RBR (diamond bezel)
• Price range (pre-owned): $7,000–$30,000

36mm — The Original Datejust Size

The 36mm was the original Datejust case size when it launched in 1945. Today it's considered a unisex size — popular with both men who prefer a classic fit and women who like a larger watch. This is the size worn by many of the Datejust's most famous wearers.

• Best for: Wrists 16–18cm. Those who appreciate original proportions and vintage charm.
• Key references: 116233 (two-tone), 126234 (steel/white gold fluted), 116200 (smooth bezel)
• Price range (pre-owned): $6,000–$20,000

41mm — The Modern Men's Size

The Datejust 41 was introduced in 2016 as the primary men's Datejust. A larger, more modern presence on the wrist. Houses the newer calibre 3235 with 70-hour power reserve.

• Best for: Wrists 17–20cm. The go-to men's size with a contemporary look.
• Key references: 126334 (fluted/Jubilee), 126300 (smooth/Oyster), 126331 (Everose two-tone)
• Price range (pre-owned): $9,000–$25,000

How to Measure Your Wrist

Wrap a flexible tape measure (or a strip of paper) around your wrist just above the wrist bone. A snug but comfortable fit is your wrist circumference. As a general rule, the watch case diameter should be about 35–45% of your wrist width for a balanced look.

Still unsure? Visit our women's Rolex collection or full Datejust range — or come try on different sizes at our two Melbourne stores.