Description
Rolex Datejust II 116333: The bolder face of an icon in steel and gold
Even today, on 8 April 2025, in elegant Prague, a city rich in history and with an enduring sense of style, Rolex remains synonymous with prestige, reliability and timeless design. One of the pillars of the brand is the Datejust collection, which has defined classic watches since its inception in 1945. Reference 116333, known as the Datejust II, represents a specific and nowadays collectible chapter of this legend, combining iconic looks with more robust proportions and a luxurious combination of steel and yellow gold (Yellow Rolesor) with a classic dial with Roman numerals.
Link on behalf of Datejust
Before we focus on a specific reference, let's recall what makes Datejust an icon. It was the first automatic waterproof wristwatch with chronometer certification that displayed the date in a window on the dial. Distinctive features such as the waterproof Oyster case, the self-winding Perpetual motion movement and the magnifying "cyclops" lens above the date became Rolex hallmarks.
Datejust II: More than just size (Reference 116333)
Reference 116333 belongs to the model series Datejust II, which was produced from approximately 2009 to 2016. Compared to the traditional Datejust and its successor Datejust 41 (ref. 126xxx), it brought several changes:
- Size: The 41 mm case was a response to the trend for larger watches.
- Proportions: It wasn't just a matter of increasing the diameter. Overall, Datejust II had more robust appearance - wider, more massive lunette, thicker case feet and often larger indices or numerals on the dial. This gave it a sportier and more distinctive character.
- Material (116333): This reference is made in Yellow Rolesor - a combination of high-strength 904L steel (case, outer links) and 18K yellow gold (characteristic scalloped lunette, crown, central links).
- Lunette: Iconic knurled lunette (fluted bezel) in 18k yellow gold, which reflects light beautifully.
- Dial: This article focuses on variants with in Roman numerals. These dials were available in various colours for ref. 116333 - classic white, black, champagne or elegant slate grey. Especially popular was the so-called. "Wimbledon." variant with slate grey background and Roman numerals with green outline.
- Bracelet: The watch was typically fitted with a chunky bracelet Oyster in Yellow Rolesor, which emphasized their sportier touch compared to the Jubilee bracelet. The bracelet was equipped with a comfortable Easylink extension link.
Design: the Rolesor and Roman numerals on a larger scale
The combination of shiny steel and the warm tone of yellow gold in the Rolesor version is typical of Rolex and gives the watch a touch of luxury and versatility. The play of light on the scalloped lunette is hypnotic. The classic Roman numerals on the 41mm dial appear more pronounced and legible, while retaining their traditional elegance. The overall impression of the 116333 is more robust and modern than the classic 36mm Datejust or even the later, slimmer Datejust 41 (ref. 126333).
Reliability at heart: the Kalibr 3136
Inside the Datejust II 116333 ticked a factory automatic movement Rolex Calibre 3136. It was built on the legendary and extremely reliable 3135 caliber, but has been modified for a larger case and equipped with patented shock absorbers Paraflex from Rolex to increase its durability.
- Features: Hours, minutes, central seconds, instant date change with quick setup.
- Certification: Superlative Chronometer. This means that the movement has not only met the criteria of the external COSC institute, but has also undergone additional rigorous tests for accuracy, water resistance and power reserve directly in the Rolex workshops once it has been fitted into the case.
- Running reserve: Approximately 48 hours.
Market position (as of 8 April 2025)
It is important to point out that the Rolex Datejust II (including reference 116333) is no longer in production. It has been replaced by the Datejust 41 (ref. 126xxx), which has the same 41 mm diameter but overall slimmer and more refined proportions. The 116333 is thus available only on the secondary market (pre-owned).
For some collectors and wearers, however, the more robust proportions of the Datejust II are more desirable than those of its successor. The watch retains its high value due to the strength of the Rolex brand, the popularity of the two-tone Rolesor design, and the specific status of the Datejust II. Especially the variants with certain dials (e.g. Wimbledon) can be highly sought after.
Who is the watch for?
Rolex Datejust II 116333 will appeal especially to:
- Interested in the larger, more distinctive Datejust model.
- Lovers of the classic two-tone look of steel and yellow gold.
- Those who prefer the specific, more robust proportions of the Datejust II over the current Datejust 41.
- Buyer active in the used Rolex watch market.
- Individuals looking for an iconic watch that is a classic but looks a little sportier and more modern.
Conclusion
The Rolex Datejust II reference 116333 is a fascinating chapter in the history of the legendary model. Its 41mm case with more robust proportions, luxurious combination of steel and Rolesor yellow gold, iconic scalloped lunette and classic dial with Roman numerals, all powered by the reliable calibre 3136, make it a very attractive choice on the secondary market. In the setting of Prague, which combines historical grandeur with modern dynamism, the Datejust II 116333 is the perfect symbol of the fusion of tradition and a bolder expression that loses none of its timeless appeal.
