The Rolex Datejust 36mm. A classic. An icon. A watch that whispers elegance and timeless style. But for those intimately involved with these pieces, a seemingly minor detail can spark considerable debate: the crown. Specifically, the impact of the crown's size and its inclusion or exclusion in the stated case diameter. This forum post delves into the complexities of measuring a 36mm Datejust, focusing on the crown's contribution to the overall dimensions and the resulting discrepancies found in various models and individual pieces.
Datejust Actual Case Size: A Minefield of Measurements
The advertised size of a Rolex Datejust, particularly the 36mm models, often becomes a point of contention. The official specification usually states "36mm," but this is almost universally understood to exclude the crown. This seemingly simple clarification, however, leads to a range of actual measured sizes. Many owners report finding their 36mm Datejusts, upon careful measurement, to fall slightly below 36mm, often measuring closer to 34.5mm to 35.5mm across the case, excluding the crown.
This discrepancy isn't a defect; it's a consequence of how Rolex (and many other watchmakers) define case size. The measurement is typically taken across the widest part of the case, excluding the crown and the lugs. The crown, being a three-dimensional element projecting from the case, naturally increases the overall diameter if included. This leads to the confusion: a watch advertised as 36mm might actually measure 34.5mm across the case itself, while the distance across the case *including* the crown will be significantly larger.
My own experience with a G-series Datejust (reference 1603) highlights this issue. The case measures 36mm according to the markings, but precise measurement reveals a 34.5mm diameter excluding the crown. This isn't unusual, and understanding this difference is crucial for anyone considering a vintage or modern 36mm Datejust. The stated size is a nominal figure, a marketing shorthand, rather than a precise, all-inclusive measurement.
To All Who Are Concerned About the 36mm Size, This Is… a Matter of Perspective
The 36mm Datejust, despite the measurement discrepancies, remains a highly sought-after model. Its size sits comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes, appealing to those who find larger modern watches overly imposing. The perception of size, however, is subjective. What feels perfectly proportioned on one wrist might feel too small or too large on another. Therefore, the actual measured size, while important for accurate information, shouldn't be the sole determinant of whether a 36mm Datejust is the right choice.
The visual impact of the watch is heavily influenced by factors beyond just the case diameter. The lug-to-lug measurement (the distance between the lugs, where the straps attach) plays a crucial role in how the watch sits on the wrist. A longer lug-to-lug measurement can make a watch feel larger, even if the case diameter is smaller. Similarly, the thickness of the case, the size of the bezel, and the overall design contribute to the perceived size. A slimmer profile can make a 36mm watch feel less substantial than a thicker one of the same diameter. The style of the bracelet or strap also has a significant impact on the overall aesthetic and perceived size.
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