Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 26 mm 179173-BLUSJ Steel/Yellow Gold Blue

The Rolex Lady-Datejust is one of the most enduring icons in the history of watchmaking. Introduced in 1957 as the first self-winding wristwatch sized specifically for women, it carried forward the DNA of the original Datejust—launched in 1945 as the world's first self-winding waterproof chronometer to display the date in a window at 3 o'clock—in a smaller, more refined 26 mm case. Decades on, the Lady-Datejust remains the definitive expression of understated luxury for women, and reference 179173-BLUSJ represents the line at its most characteristically Rolex: two-tone, classically detailed, and instantly recognizable.

The case of the 179173-BLUSJ measures 26 mm in diameter and is built from a combination of Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold, Rolex's signature two-tone pairing that the brand has perfected over generations. The Oyster case is a hallmark of robustness, with a screw-down crown and caseback that contribute to its 100-meter (330-foot) water resistance rating. At this size, the watch sits with remarkable elegance on the wrist—substantial enough to make a statement yet perfectly balanced for everyday wear without feeling intrusive.

The dial of this reference is finished in a rich, captivating blue, a color that carries effortless versatility from boardroom to weekend and catches light beautifully throughout the day. Index hour markers keep the presentation clean and legible, allowing the blue lacquer to remain the focal point. The date aperture at 3 o'clock is fitted with Rolex's signature Cyclops lens, which magnifies the date 2.5 times for instant readability—one of those small details that, once experienced, becomes difficult to live without.

Framing the dial is an 18k yellow gold fluted bezel, the defining aesthetic signature of the Datejust family. The fluting originates as a functional element that once allowed the caseback to be tightened with a coin, but it has evolved into the most iconic decorative motif in watch design. In yellow gold, the fluted bezel on the 179173-BLUSJ creates a radiant contrast against the blue dial and the steel case flanks, giving this reference its unmistakable two-tone character. The Jubilee bracelet—another Datejust original, introduced alongside the very first Datejust in 1945—completes the picture with its five-piece link construction, which drapes the wrist with a suppleness and elegance that remains unmatched.

At the heart of this Lady-Datejust beats a Rolex automatic movement, continuing the brand's long commitment to in-house self-winding watchmaking. The result is a watch that winds itself through the motion of the wearer's wrist and requires no battery, asking only to be worn and appreciated. For collectors and everyday enthusiasts alike, this combination of convenience, reliability, and craftsmanship is a large part of what makes any Rolex a generational investment.

Bizak and Co. offers the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 reference 179173-BLUSJ as part of our curated selection of pre-owned luxury timepieces available for sale online at bizakandco.com. Whether you are buying your first Rolex or adding to a growing collection, our team is here to guide you with the expertise and transparency you deserve. We invite you to contact us directly to ask questions, request additional detail, or begin the purchase process—because at Bizak and Co., every transaction is backed by our passion for fine watches and our commitment to your satisfaction.