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.
Designed for life’s special moments, this 2003 Rolex Lady‑Datejust 26mm lends understated polish from boardroom to black‑tie. Its compact profile and classic silver tones make it a refined companion for weddings, anniversaries and elegant dinners, while remaining perfectly suited to everyday city wear.
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 are the key specifications of this Rolex Lady-Datejust ref. 79174? A: It is a 26 mm Oyster case in stainless steel with an 18k white gold fluted bezel, sapphire crystal, and a stainless steel Jubilee bracelet. It features a date at 3 o’clock under a Cyclops lens and is powered by the automatic Rolex calibre 2235 chronometer movement. When new, the Oyster case was rated to 100 m water resistance; for a 2003 example, water resistance depends on current gaskets and testing. Please see the product information on this page for exactly what is included with this watch.
Q: Which movement does it use and what is the power reserve? A: The Lady-Datejust 79174 uses the Rolex calibre 2235, an automatic, COSC‑certified movement with 31 jewels, 28,800 vph, and an approximate 48‑hour power reserve.
Q: Does this watch have a quickset date and how do I use it? A: Yes, ref. 79174 has a quickset date. Unscrew the crown, pull to the second position to advance the date independently, and push/screw the crown back down after setting. As with any date watch, avoid changing the date when the hands are near midnight to protect the mechanism.
Q: Can I swim with this 2003 Lady-Datejust? A: The Datejust’s Oyster case was designed for everyday water resistance, but with a 2003 watch the integrity of seals depends on service history. We recommend only swimming after a recent pressure test by a qualified watchmaker and always ensuring the crown is fully screwed down. After saltwater, rinse with fresh water. If in doubt, avoid submersion.
Q: What wrist size will this bracelet fit, and can it be adjusted or changed to a strap? A: This example is sized to fit a wrist up to approximately 16 cm as noted in the product information and can be sized by adding or removing links. The lug width is 13 mm on the 26 mm Lady‑Datejust, so compatible 13 mm straps can be fitted by a professional if you prefer a leather look.
Q: How does the 26 mm Lady‑Datejust wear compared with current models? A: The 26 mm size is the classic, more petite Lady‑Datejust that many find elegant and discreet. Rolex later moved to 28 mm as the smallest catalogue size, so 26 mm pieces like this feel daintier than modern equivalents while retaining timeless proportions.
Q: What does the F‑serial number indicate for this watch? A: An F‑prefix serial typically dates a Rolex to around 2003–2005, aligning with the stated 2003 production year for this example.
Q: My Jubilee bracelet shows some stretch—can it be fixed? A: Yes. Stretch from long‑term wear can often be reduced by specialist bracelet tightening/restoration services, or links can be replaced where appropriate. A competent watchmaker can advise on the best route; some owners opt for a replacement bracelet instead.
Q: How often should I service a Lady‑Datejust and what might it cost? A: Rolex guidance is roughly every 10 years, though older pieces and heavier use may benefit from 5–7 year intervals. A full service typically includes movement disassembly/cleaning, replacement of worn parts and gaskets, lubrication, timing regulation, pressure testing, and case/bracelet refinishing if requested. Costs vary by region and condition; many reputable sources cite a typical range around $800–$1,200, with higher totals if parts are needed.
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.
We ship all orders from Sweden, and when importing to Canada your order may be subject to import duties and sales tax, which will be charged to you upon delivery by the shipping carrier.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
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.
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 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.
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
11 590 CAD
• Stainless steel case, 26mm
• 18k white gold fluted bezel
• Silver dial with diamond hour markers
• Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
• Date display at the 3 o'clock position
• Comes as a full set with original box and papers
• From the year 2003
