We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
This elegant Rolex Lady-Datejust Ref. 69174 from 1996 combines stainless steel with 18K white gold in pristine condition. Featuring a classic white dial with Roman numerals and fluted bezel, this 26mm timepiece on Jubilee bracelet effortlessly transitions from boardroom meetings to evening soirées, embodying timeless sophistication for the discerning woman.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm Ref. 69174 (1996)? A: It’s a classic ladies’ Rolex pairing a 26mm stainless‑steel Oyster case with an 18k white‑gold fluted bezel, a white dial with Roman numerals, a date at 3 o’clock under the Cyclops lens, and a comfortable Jubilee bracelet. This example is from 1996 and is automatic (self‑winding).
Q: Which movement does it use, does it have a quickset date, and what is the power reserve? A: Lady‑Datejust 69174 models from this era typically house the automatic Rolex Calibre 2135, featuring a quickset date. Power reserve is around 42 hours. Exact calibre can be confirmed for this specific watch on request.
Q: How do I set the time and date safely? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: 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 approximately 8pm and 2am. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly to help maintain water resistance.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I swim with it? A: When new, the Oyster case was rated to 100 metres. With vintage watches, water resistance cannot be guaranteed without recent gasket replacement and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless it has been freshly serviced and tested; always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any contact with moisture.
Q: Does it have a sapphire crystal and the Cyclops magnifier? A: Most Lady‑Datejust 69174 examples feature a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal with Rolex’s Cyclops lens over the date. We can confirm the crystal type on this exact watch upon request.
Q: What are the materials and key design details? A: The case is stainless steel with an 18k white‑gold fluted bezel. The dial is white with Roman numerals, and the bracelet is the five‑link stainless‑steel Jubilee for a refined, vintage‑proportion look.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the Jubilee bracelet be resized? A: This bracelet fits wrists up to approximately 18 cm as listed. We can size the bracelet prior to dispatch. Additional links can often be sourced (subject to availability and a fee); share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise the best options.
Q: How does the 26mm Lady‑Datejust compare to the later 28mm? A: The 26mm offers a distinctly vintage, petite presence ideal for smaller wrists and a dressy profile. The 28mm provides a slightly larger dial and more modern wrist presence. Choice is down to wrist size and style preference.
Q: How can I verify the reference and production year? A: The reference number is typically stamped between the lugs at 12 o’clock and the serial at 6 o’clock (the bracelet must be removed). Many 1996 pieces carry a “T”‑prefix serial; this watch is noted as T545620 (1996). We’re happy to verify these details and provide additional photos on request.
Q: What servicing, accuracy and care should I expect? A: A healthy vintage Rolex should keep good time, though performance varies with age and service history. A routine service every 5–10 years is sensible, or sooner if accuracy or water resistance is a concern. Keep it away from strong magnets, extreme heat and chemicals; wipe with a soft microfibre cloth after wear.
Q: What is included, and what warranty/shipping do you offer? A: This listing is delivered with no accessories unless stated otherwise. A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. All watches include a 12‑month mechanical guarantee. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers; please contact us for any specific delivery or warranty questions.
SHIPPING TO THE US
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 2-4 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that all return shipments to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Retain your shipping receipt and tracking number until the return is completed and your refund is processed. Return shipping costs will be covered by A Retro Tale, and we will provide you with a prepaid return label.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Womens watches
/ Lady-Datejust
25%
off retail price
• Stainless steel and 18k white gold
• 26mm case
• Fluted bezel
• White dial with Roman numerals
• Jubilee bracelet
• Automatic movement
• Year 1996
