Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm 1990 Watch

Q: What is the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm (1990) ref. 69174?
A: It’s a Swiss-made, automatic ladies’ Datejust in a 26mm stainless-steel Oyster case with a fluted bezel, a blue dial featuring the date under Rolex’s Cyclops magnifier, and a stainless-steel Jubilee bracelet. Compact and elegant, it’s ideal for smaller wrists and refined, everyday wear.

Q: Which movement does this model typically use?
A: Late-1980s to early-1990s Lady-Datejust models like the 69174 are usually powered by a self-winding Rolex calibre with a quickset date (commonly the Calibre 2135). Exact movement can be verified on request for this specific watch.

Q: How do I wind and set the time/date safely?
A: Unscrew the crown anti-clockwise. Position 1: manual wind (about 20–30 turns if the watch has stopped). Position 2: quickset the date. Position 3: set the time. Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly.

Q: Is it water-resistant and can I swim with it?
A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100m, but water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed without recent gasket replacement and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless it has been freshly serviced, re-sealed and tested. Always keep the crown fully screwed down.

Q: Does a 1990 Lady-Datejust have a sapphire crystal and Cyclops lens?
A: Most examples from this era feature a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal with the Cyclops date magnifier. If you’d like us to confirm the crystal type on this exact piece, please contact us.

Q: What is the bezel made of on ref. 69174?
A: On 69174 models, the fluted bezel is typically crafted from 18ct white gold paired with a stainless-steel case. We can confirm the bezel material for this specific watch on request.

Q: Will the bracelet fit my wrist, and can it be resized?
A: This watch fits wrists up to approximately 16.75cm as listed. The Jubilee bracelet can be sized; additional links can often be sourced subject to availability and may incur a fee. Share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise before dispatch.

Q: How accurate should I expect it to be, and when should it be serviced?
A: A well-maintained vintage Rolex should keep good time, though tolerances vary with age and service history. A full service every 5–10 years is generally recommended, or sooner if you notice running fast/slow, moisture, or reduced power reserve. Keep the watch away from strong magnets and have gaskets checked periodically.

Q: How can I verify the reference and production year?
A: The reference is typically stamped between the lugs at 12 o’clock and the serial at 6 o’clock (bracelet removal required). This piece carries an “E”‑prefix serial consistent with around 1990. We’re happy to verify details and share additional photos on request.

Q: How does the 26mm Lady-Datejust compare to the later 28mm?
A: The 26mm offers a more petite, vintage proportion, while the 28mm provides a slightly larger, more modern presence. Choice depends on wrist size and style preference; both retain the Datejust’s timeless design cues.

Q: What’s included, and how do you guarantee authenticity and support?
A: This listing is delivered with no accessories unless stated otherwise. A Retro Tale professionally authenticates every item and provides a 12‑month mechanical guarantee, free insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers. Contact us for any specific details or documentation you’d like to review.