1996 Rolex Lady-Datejust Watch 69173 26mm Ivory Pyramide Roman Dial - Full Set

Watch Overview

Presenting this 1996 Rolex Lady-Datejust, reference 69173 — a vintage women’s wristwatch that combines elegance with Rolex’s unmatched reputation for precision. Powered by the self-winding Rolex Caliber 2135 with sweep-second hand, 29 jewels and certificate chronometer, this Datejust features the striking Ivory Pyramid dial with applied gold Roman numeral hour markers and matching hands. The iconic Cyclops lens magnifies the date window at 3 o’clock, while the applied Rolex crown proudly sits at 12.

Housed in a 26mm stainless steel Oyster case with an 18k yellow gold fluted bezel, this two-tone beauty is fitted with the classic Jubilee bracelet (ref. 62523D-18) in stainless steel and 18k yellow gold center links. The watch is accompanied by its full original set, including both inner and outer Rolex boxes, chronometer certificate, booklets, and hang tags — making this an exceptional collector’s piece. The serial number confirms a 1996 production year. Fully original and well-preserved, this Lady-Datejust embodies sophistication, heritage, and everyday wearability.

Product Details

General Specifications

• Brand: Rolex
• Type: Wristwatch
• Model: Lady-Datejust
• Reference: 69173
• Year / Era: 1996 – Vintage
• Gender: Women’s
• Country of Manufacture: Switzerland – Swiss Made

Dial & Display

• Display: Analog
• Color: Ivory Pyramid dial
• Features: Applied Roman numerals in gold, bold "railroad" track, sweep seconds and matching gold hands. Date aperture with Cyclops magnifier at 3 o’clock

Movement

• Type: Automatic
• Caliber: Rolex 2135
• Jewels: 29
• Movement Functions:
  • Self-winding
  • Hours, minutes, sweep seconds
  • Superlative chronometer-certified accuracy
  • Adjusted 5 positions and temperature
  • Date with quickset
• Power Reserve: 42-hours
• Frequency: 28,800 vph

Case & Band

• Material: Two-tone Stainless steel with yellow gold bezel
• Case Shape: Round Oyster
• Bezel: 18k yellow gold fluted
• Crystal: Sapphire with Cyclops lens
• Back: Screw
• Crown: Rolex signed screw-down
• Water Resistance: -
• Band Type: Two-tone Jubilee bracelet ref. 62523D-18 in stainless steel & 18k yellow gold. Rolex clasp
• Case Back Markings:-

Case Measurements (mm)

• Case Size: 26
• Case Diameter w/Crown: 28.3
• Case Lug to Lug: 32.6
• Case Thickness: 10.8
• Lug Width: 12.6
• Band Width: 12.6

Additional Info

• Box & Papers: Yes – Complete original set with inner & outer Rolex boxes, chronometer certificate, booklets, and hang tags
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition, full original set, light wear consistent with careful use, bracelet with minor stretch.
• Extras: Fully inspected and authenticated by our watchmaker, this timepiece is running accurately and ready to wear.

History & Legacy of the Rolex Lady-Datejust

Introduced in 1957, the Rolex Lady-Datejust was designed as the elegant feminine counterpart to the legendary men’s Datejust. It carried all the technical hallmarks of the Oyster Perpetual line — automatic “Perpetual” movement, waterproof Oyster case, and the signature date complication — but in a refined 26mm case that perfectly reflected the style of the era.

For decades, the Lady-Datejust remained true to its origins, offering countless variations in dials, bezels, and bracelets while preserving Rolex’s reputation for precision and durability. Its 26mm size became a defining feature, making it one of the most enduring women’s luxury watches of the 20th century.

In 2015, Rolex introduced a new 28mm version with the updated Caliber 2236, modernizing proportions and enhancing performance, while staying faithful to the timeless character that collectors have cherished since its debut.

Today, the Lady-Datejust stands as a symbol of refinement and resilience — a watch that unites Rolex’s uncompromising engineering with a heritage of feminine elegance, making it not just a timepiece but a collectible icon.

About Second Hand Horology

At SECOND HAND HOROLOGY, we offer a curated selection of watches ranging from vintage to modern, including both brand-new and pre-owned timepieces. We’re committed to quality, accuracy, and integrity. Our listings feature:

Professional, unedited photography and clear, transparent descriptions. Every watch is thoroughly inspected and securely packaged to ensure a confident, seamless buying experience.

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