The authenticity of the watch has been checked and certified by Sebastian, who is one of Sweden's leading watch experts.

Designed for life’s special moments, this 2003 Rolex Lady‑Datejust 26mm lends understated polish from boardroom to black‑tie. Its compact profile and classic silver tones make it a refined companion for weddings, anniversaries and elegant dinners, while remaining perfectly suited to everyday city wear.

Q: What are the key specifications of this Rolex Lady-Datejust ref. 79174?
A: It is a 26 mm Oyster case in stainless steel with an 18k white gold fluted bezel, sapphire crystal, and a stainless steel Jubilee bracelet. It features a date at 3 o’clock under a Cyclops lens and is powered by the automatic Rolex calibre 2235 chronometer movement. When new, the Oyster case was rated to 100 m water resistance; for a 2003 example, water resistance depends on current gaskets and testing. Please see the product information on this page for exactly what is included with this watch.

Q: What wrist size will this bracelet fit, and can it be adjusted or changed to a strap?
A: This example is sized to fit a wrist up to approximately 16 cm as noted in the product information and can be sized by adding or removing links. The lug width is 13 mm on the 26 mm Lady‑Datejust, so compatible 13 mm straps can be fitted by a professional if you prefer a leather look.

Q: How does the 26 mm Lady‑Datejust wear compared with current models?
A: The 26 mm size is the classic, more petite Lady‑Datejust that many find elegant and discreet. Rolex later moved to 28 mm as the smallest catalogue size, so 26 mm pieces like this feel daintier than modern equivalents while retaining timeless proportions.

Q: What are the key specifications of this Rolex Lady-Datejust ref. 79174?
A: It is a 26 mm Oyster case in stainless steel with an 18k white gold fluted bezel, sapphire crystal, and a stainless steel Jubilee bracelet. It features a date at 3 o’clock under a Cyclops lens and is powered by the automatic Rolex calibre 2235 chronometer movement. When new, the Oyster case was rated to 100 m water resistance; for a 2003 example, water resistance depends on current gaskets and testing. Please see the product information on this page for exactly what is included with this watch.

Q: Which movement does it use and what is the power reserve?
A: The Lady-Datejust 79174 uses the Rolex calibre 2235, an automatic, COSC‑certified movement with 31 jewels, 28,800 vph, and an approximate 48‑hour power reserve.

Q: Does this watch have a quickset date and how do I use it?
A: Yes, ref. 79174 has a quickset date. Unscrew the crown, pull to the second position to advance the date independently, and push/screw the crown back down after setting. As with any date watch, avoid changing the date when the hands are near midnight to protect the mechanism.

Q: Can I swim with this 2003 Lady-Datejust?
A: The Datejust’s Oyster case was designed for everyday water resistance, but with a 2003 watch the integrity of seals depends on service history. We recommend only swimming after a recent pressure test by a qualified watchmaker and always ensuring the crown is fully screwed down. After saltwater, rinse with fresh water. If in doubt, avoid submersion.

Q: What wrist size will this bracelet fit, and can it be adjusted or changed to a strap?
A: This example is sized to fit a wrist up to approximately 16 cm as noted in the product information and can be sized by adding or removing links. The lug width is 13 mm on the 26 mm Lady‑Datejust, so compatible 13 mm straps can be fitted by a professional if you prefer a leather look.

Q: How does the 26 mm Lady‑Datejust wear compared with current models?
A: The 26 mm size is the classic, more petite Lady‑Datejust that many find elegant and discreet. Rolex later moved to 28 mm as the smallest catalogue size, so 26 mm pieces like this feel daintier than modern equivalents while retaining timeless proportions.

Q: What does the F‑serial number indicate for this watch?
A: An F‑prefix serial typically dates a Rolex to around 2003–2005, aligning with the stated 2003 production year for this example.

Q: My Jubilee bracelet shows some stretch—can it be fixed?
A: Yes. Stretch from long‑term wear can often be reduced by specialist bracelet tightening/restoration services, or links can be replaced where appropriate. A competent watchmaker can advise on the best route; some owners opt for a replacement bracelet instead.

Q: How often should I service a Lady‑Datejust and what might it cost?
A: Rolex guidance is roughly every 10 years, though older pieces and heavier use may benefit from 5–7 year intervals. A full service typically includes movement disassembly/cleaning, replacement of worn parts and gaskets, lubrication, timing regulation, pressure testing, and case/bracelet refinishing if requested. Costs vary by region and condition; many reputable sources cite a typical range around $800–$1,200, with higher totals if parts are needed.