The Datejust 41 and the Day-Date 40 are Rolex's two great classic watches. They look related, but the Day-Date is made only in solid gold or platinum and shows the day of the week spelled out, while the Datejust comes in steel, two-tone and gold and shows the date only. That makes the biggest difference the price: in our stock a Datejust 41 typically costs $13,155, a Day-Date 40 $61,020.
Datejust 41 vs Day-Date 40 at a glance
| Datejust 41 | Day-Date 40 | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Date, with the Cyclops magnifier | Day of the week spelled out at 12, and the date |
| Metals | Oystersteel, Rolesor (steel and gold), gold | 18 kt yellow, white or Everose gold, or platinum only |
| Bracelets | Oyster or Jubilee | President |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3235 | Rolex calibre 3255 |
| Power reserve | About 70 hours | About 70 hours |
| Best-known references | 126300 (smooth bezel), 126334 (fluted white gold bezel), 126333 (two-tone yellow gold) | 228238 (yellow gold), 228235 (Everose), 228239 (white gold), 228206 (platinum) |
| In our stock | from $7,260, typically $13,155 | from $33,880, typically $61,020 |
Prices are live figures from the watches in our stock. Specifications differ by reference, so check the listing.
The day display and the "President"
The Day-Date, launched in 1956, was the first wristwatch to show the day of the week spelled out in full. It is nicknamed the "President" after its bracelet and its long association with world leaders. Being made only in precious metals, it is Rolex's most prestigious classic.
The Datejust, launched in 1945, was the first self-winding wristwatch to show the date in a window. It is the most versatile Rolex: you can choose the metal, bezel, dial and bracelet almost freely.
How they wear
Both are around 40 to 41 mm with similar proportions. A gold Day-Date is noticeably heavier than a steel Datejust, which some love and some do not. The Datejust 41 on a Jubilee bracelet is dressier; on the Oyster bracelet it is sportier.
If 40 mm feels too big, the Datejust 36 and Day-Date 36 offer the classic proportions. Our guide to the Datejust 36 vs 41 helps you choose the size.
Which one should you buy?
Choose the Datejust 41 if you want a versatile everyday Rolex, in steel or two-tone, at a more accessible price. Read the Datejust buying guide.
Choose the Day-Date 40 if you want the most prestigious classic Rolex, in solid gold or platinum, with the day of the week. Read the Day-Date buying guide.
Shop the Datejust 41 and the Day-Date 40. Every watch is checked by our specialist before it ships and comes with our 24-month warranty.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Datejust and a Day-Date?
The Day-Date shows the day of the week spelled out as well as the date, and is made only in gold or platinum on the President bracelet. The Datejust shows the date only and is made in steel, two-tone and gold.
Is the Day-Date made in steel?
No. Every Day-Date is 18 kt gold or platinum.
Which is more expensive?
The Day-Date. In our stock a Day-Date 40 typically costs $61,020, a Datejust 41 $13,155.
Why is the Day-Date called the President?
After its President bracelet and its association with heads of state who wore it.
Is the Datejust 41 too big?
For most wrists it wears well thanks to its short lugs. If you prefer a classic size, the Datejust 36 is the traditional choice.
