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.
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Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm 1996 Watch
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 the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
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.
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Very Good Condition
OUT OF STOCK
An elegant choice for black-tie dinners and milestone celebrations, this 1996 Rolex Lady-Datejust in stainless steel with a champagne dial lends timeless refinement to eveningwear. Its versatile 26mm profile transitions seamlessly from the boardroom to weekend events, adding discreet vintage luxury to weddings, anniversaries and special occasions.
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 exactly is this model? A: It is a Rolex reference 69160 from 1996 with a 26 mm stainless‑steel Oyster case, smooth bezel, champagne dial, automatic movement and date at 3 o’clock on an Oyster bracelet.
Q: What movement does it use and does it have a quick‑set date? A: It is powered by the Rolex calibre 2135, an automatic, chronometer‑rated movement with a quick‑set date and around 42 hours of power reserve.
Q: What crystal does it have? A: This reference is fitted with a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal with the signature magnifying lens over the date.
Q: Can I swim or shower with this 1996 Lady‑Datejust? A: When new, Oyster‑case models were rated to 100 m with a screw‑down crown. However, on a vintage watch, seals can age. Water resistance is not guaranteed unless the watch is freshly pressure‑tested; we recommend avoiding water exposure unless it has been tested and resealed by a professional.
Q: How often should I service it? A: As a guideline, Rolex suggests long intervals for modern pieces, but vintage examples like this typically benefit from a full service roughly every 5–7 years, or sooner if timekeeping, winding or date‑change behaviour suggests attention. Have the water resistance checked more frequently if you plan to be around water.
Q: What wrist size will this bracelet fit, and can it be adjusted? A: This example fits wrists up to approximately 16.5 cm as listed. Links can usually be added or removed by a qualified watchmaker, and the clasp offers fine adjustment holes for small tweaks.
Q: Can I put it on a leather or rubber strap? What is the lug width? A: Yes—its lug width is approximately 13 mm. Straps in this size are available, though less common than larger widths. For the best fit and security, have a watchmaker swap straps and spring bars.
Q: Is 26 mm too small by today’s standards? A: The 26 mm Lady‑Datejust is the classic size produced for decades before Rolex moved to 28 mm in the mid‑2010s. On the wrist it wears elegantly and jewellery‑like, especially on smaller wrists, and remains a timeless choice.
Q: What is included with this item? A: Everything included is listed under product information for this specific watch. For this piece, a box is included. If an item is not listed there, it is not included.
Q: How do you authenticate this watch? A: Every piece at A Retro Tale is examined by our in‑house specialists using multi‑point checks of materials, movement, dial and hands, case and bracelet stamps, and period‑correct details. We stand behind the authenticity of all items and can provide further details on request.
SHIPPING
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.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
Outside EU, Åland and UK: Please note that customers outside of EU, Åland and UK are responsible upon delivery for any import duties, goods and services tax (GST), value added tax (VAT), customs fees, and any other tax on top of the A Retro Tale listed price. Delivery delays may occur due to external factors such as customs clearance, holidays etc.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Europe: 1-4 business days.
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
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.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Womens watches
/ Lady-Datejust
• Stainless steel • Oyster bracelet • 26mm case • Smooth bezel • Champagne dial • Date display • Automatic movement • Vintage
Condition
Dimensions
Product Information
PRODUCT FAQ
Delivery & Returns
Authentication
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Verified authenticity by our experts
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All watches comes with a 12-month mechanical guarantee
Fast delivery, fully insured and traced
Free shipping & duty to EU, UK & NO
Delivered with
box
Made in
Switzerland
Year of Manufacture:
1996
Reference Number:
69160
Product number:
K26042225610
The authenticity of the watch has been checked and certified by Sebastian, who is one of Sweden's leading watch experts.
