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 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 | About us
Elevate black-tie events, boardroom meetings or milestone dinners with this 31mm 18k yellow-gold Rolex Datejust from 1987. Its champagne dial and fluted bezel lend refined warmth, while the mid-size profile moves effortlessly from day to evening. A vintage classic for weddings, anniversaries and any moment that calls for timeless, polished elegance.
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 Datejust 31mm Ref. 68278 (1987)? A: It is a mid‑size 31mm Datejust crafted from solid 18k yellow gold with a fluted bezel, champagne dial and date display under the Cyclops. This example is from 1987 and comes on the elegant three‑link President bracelet with a concealed clasp.
Q: Which movement powers this watch and does it have a Quickset date? A: The Ref. 68278 is powered by the Rolex Calibre 2135 self‑winding movement, renowned for reliability and featuring a Quickset date, allowing the date to be adjusted independently via the crown.
Q: Is the crystal sapphire? A: Yes. This reference is fitted with a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal and the signature Cyclops magnifier over the date for enhanced legibility.
Q: Is the watch water‑resistant? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres. However, as this is a vintage piece, we cannot guarantee water resistance without a recent pressure test. We recommend treating it as splash‑resistant only and avoiding swimming or showering.
Q: Is the President bracelet correct for a Datejust 31? A: Yes. While the “President” bracelet is most associated with the Day‑Date, certain precious‑metal Datejust 31 models (including the modern equivalents) were/are offered with the President bracelet, making it correct for this reference.
Q: Will this watch fit my wrist? A: This specific piece is sized to fit a wrist circumference of up to 18 cm (or smaller). Additional links can often be sourced if needed; links can also be removed for a smaller fit.
Q: What is included with this purchase? A: This listing includes the watch, a box, hang tag and pouch.
Q: What is the condition of this watch? A: It is in Very Good condition with light traces of use. Expect some surface scratches on the case, case back and bracelet consistent with age. Please review the photos for full details.
Q: How do I set the time and date? A: Unscrew the crown counter‑clockwise. Position 1 is for manual winding. Pull gently to Position 2 to use the Quickset date. Pull to Position 3 to set the time. Avoid changing the date between roughly 9 pm and 3 am to protect the mechanism, and screw the crown back down firmly after use.
Q: Is 31mm considered a ladies’ size or unisex? A: The 31mm Datejust is traditionally a smaller size but is widely worn by both women and men today, offering a refined, vintage‑proportioned look on many wrists.
Q: How often should a vintage Rolex like this be serviced? A: As a general guide, Rolex suggests service approximately every 10 years; for older pieces that see regular wear, many specialists recommend every 5–7 years or sooner if timekeeping changes or water‑resistance checks fail. Treat pressure‑testing and gasket checks as part of routine care.
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 is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
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 DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 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 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.
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
17 611 £
• 18k yellow gold case and President bracelet
• 31mm case
• Champagne dial with a date display
• Fluted bezel
• Automatic movement
• Vintage
