Rolex Datejust 31mm Mid Size 1985 Watch

Q: What is this Rolex Datejust 31mm Ref. 68274 (1985)?
A: It is a mid-size 31mm Oyster Perpetual Datejust in stainless steel with a fluted 18k white gold bezel, a blue dial with a date at 3 o’clock under the Cyclops magnifier, and a five‑piece Jubilee bracelet. This generation features an automatic self‑winding movement and a sapphire crystal.

Q: Which movement does it use and does it have a Quickset date?
A: Mid‑1980s Datejust 31 models like Ref. 68274 are typically powered by the Rolex Calibre 2135 automatic movement. It includes a Quickset date, allowing the date to be adjusted independently via the crown without rotating the hands through 24 hours.

Q: Is the crystal sapphire or acrylic?
A: Sapphire. By this era, the Datejust 31 was fitted with a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal featuring the Cyclops lens for date magnification.

Q: Is the fluted bezel solid white gold?
A: Yes. On Ref. 68274 the fluted bezel is crafted from 18k white gold, paired with a stainless‑steel case and bracelet.

Q: Is it water‑resistant?
A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres. As this is a vintage piece from 1985, water resistance cannot be guaranteed without a current pressure test. We recommend treating it as splash‑resistant only and avoiding swimming or showering.

Q: Will it fit my wrist?
A: This specific watch fits a wrist circumference of up to approximately 17.5 cm. The Jubilee bracelet can be shortened by removing links. No additional links are included with this listing; extra links can usually be sourced separately if needed.

Q: How do I set the time and date?
A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1 (unscrewed) allows manual winding. Pull gently to Position 2 to Quickset the date. Pull to Position 3 to set the time. Push the crown back in and screw it down firmly. Avoid changing the date between roughly 9 pm and 3 am to protect the mechanism.

Q: What is the power reserve and expected accuracy?
A: The calibre fitted in this reference typically delivers around 42 hours of power reserve. When serviced and regulated, it was designed to meet chronometer accuracy standards; real‑world performance on a vintage watch may vary depending on use and service history.

Q: What is the condition of this example?
A: Overall Very Good condition with light traces of use. The hardware is shiny with some surface scratches consistent with age. Please review the listing images for a close look at the case, bracelet and dial.

Q: What is included with the purchase and is it authentic?
A: This watch is sold as the watch only (no accessories, box or papers). A Retro Tale guarantees 100% authenticity, provides secure, fully insured shipping, and includes a 12‑month warranty covering the mechanical function of the movement. We also offer a 14‑day return policy and 0% customs fees for EU buyers.