Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 26 mm 179173-BLKSO Steel/Yellow Gold Black Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 26 mm 179173-BLKSO Steel/Yellow…

The Rolex Lady-Datejust is one of the most enduring icons in watchmaking, introduced in 1957 as the first self-winding waterproof watch with a date display scaled for the female wrist. Across more than six decades the model has remained the definitive expression of Rolex elegance at a compact diameter, and the 26mm generation—represented by references such as the 179173—sits at the heart of that legacy. Wearing one is an immediate statement of taste backed by unimpeachable horological pedigree.

Reference 179173-BLKSO distills the Lady-Datejust formula into one of its most visually compelling configurations. The 26mm Oyster case is constructed in a combination of 904L stainless steel and 18-carat yellow gold, a pairing Rolex calls Rolesor. The yellow gold fluted bezel—one of the most recognizable design elements in the entire Rolex catalogue—frames the dial with an architectural precision that doubles as a functional grip surface, its faceted ridges catching light at every angle.

The black dial adds a layer of drama that sets the BLKSO designation apart from the more common white or silver variants. Index hour markers sit against the dark background with crisp legibility, while the cyclops lens over the date window at 3 o'clock magnifies the date 2.5 times for effortless reading. The overall composition—warm gold against cool steel, bright indices against a black field—is a study in confident contrast that ages exceptionally well.

The watch is driven by an automatic movement, meaning it winds itself through the natural motion of the wearer's wrist via Rolex's Perpetual rotor system. Water resistance is rated to 100 meters (330 feet), a specification that reflects the robustness of the screw-down Oyster crown and caseback—more than adequate for daily life and incidental water contact. The Oyster bracelet, machined from matching steel and yellow gold links, integrates seamlessly with the case and provides both security and comfort on the wrist.

At 26mm the Lady-Datejust 179173-BLKSO wears as a slim, refined presence—substantial enough to be noticed, never oversized. It suits a slender or petite wrist perfectly and layers elegantly with bracelets and jewelry. Whether worn as a primary everyday timepiece or reserved for special occasions, its combination of two-tone Rolesor construction, fluted bezel, and black dial gives it a range that few watches at any price point can match.

Bizak & Co. is a trusted destination for pre-owned and secondary-market luxury timepieces, and the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 ref. 179173-BLKSO for sale here represents an outstanding opportunity to own a classic Rolex at a compelling value. Please note that Bizak & Co. is not an authorized Rolex dealer. Browse our collection at bizakandco.com or reach out directly—our team is ready to answer every question and guide you through a confident, informed purchase.