Rolex Lady-Datejust 31 31 mm 278381RBRARDVIO Steel/Rose Gold/Diamonds Aubergine

The Rolex Lady-Datejust is one of the most enduring icons in watchmaking history, tracing its lineage back to 1957 when Rolex introduced a Datejust scaled expressly for women. Across more than six decades the Lady-Datejust has remained the definitive expression of dressed precision timekeeping, marrying the technical architecture of the Oyster family — waterproof case, self-winding movement, date display — with jewellery-grade decoration that few other Swiss houses can match at this level. Reference 278381RBRARDVIO represents the current generation of the 31mm Lady-Datejust, a size that sits confidently between the 28mm and the full 36mm Datejust and suits a wide range of wrists with equal poise.

The case of the 278381RBRARDVIO is constructed in a combination of Oystersteel — Rolex's proprietary 904L stainless steel prized for its corrosion resistance and deep polish — and 18k Everose gold, the exclusive rose-gold alloy developed by Rolex to resist fading over time. At 31mm the Oyster case is compact yet substantial, and the fluted or smooth midcase lugs and crown-protecting Twinlock winding crown give it the robust architecture that Rolex Oyster cases are celebrated for worldwide. The watch is rated to 100 metres (330 feet) of water resistance, making it far more capable than its gem-set appearance might suggest.

The dial is finished in a deep aubergine — a rich purple-brown reminiscent of ripe eggplant — that shifts in light from smoky violet to warm plum. Rolex dials at this tier are applied with exceptional care, and the aubergine finish creates a luxurious backdrop that makes the diamond index at the VI position and the polished hour markers glow with controlled brilliance. The Roman numeral VI marker set with diamonds is a distinctive detail that collectors specifically seek out in this reference, lending the dial a classical horological character that distinguishes it from more conventional index configurations. The diamond-set bezel frames the dial in a continuous arc of brilliant-cut stones, adding substantial visual presence without overwhelming the austere elegance of the Rolex design language.

Power comes from Rolex's automatic movement, a self-winding calibre belonging to the Calibre 2235 family that Rolex uses in this generation of Lady-Datejust references — a movement renowned for its Parachrom hairspring, Paraflex shock absorbers, and COSC-certified chronometric precision. The movement winds bidirectionally via a Perpetual rotor and keeps the date display — the feature that defines the Datejust lineage — running with characteristic Rolex reliability. The combination of in-house manufacturing, strict quality standards, and proven architecture means this watch is built to perform as an heirloom timepiece.

On the wrist, the 278381RBRARDVIO wears with effortless versatility. The Oyster bracelet in matching Oystersteel and Everose gold is secured by Rolex's concealed Crownclasp and features the Easylink comfort extension system, allowing fine sizing adjustment of approximately 5mm without tools. The two-tone metal combination bridges formal and casual contexts with ease, pairing as naturally with evening wear as it does with everyday luxury dressing. The aubergine dial introduces a colour personality that sets this reference apart from more conservative Datejust configurations, making it a conversation piece as well as a precision instrument.

At Bizak & Co. we specialise in sourcing and presenting pre-owned and new luxury timepieces to discerning buyers across the United States. The Rolex Lady-Datejust 31 reference 278381RBRARDVIO is one of the most sought-after configurations in the current Lady-Datejust catalogue, and examples in excellent condition are genuinely difficult to find. If you are looking to buy this reference online or would like to learn more about its provenance and condition, we invite you to reach out to our team at bizakandco.com. We are happy to answer every question and ensure your acquisition is seamless, confident, and rewarding.