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
An elegant choice for black-tie evenings and polished daytime engagements, the 26mm Rolex Lady-Datejust brings refined sparkle to any look. Its mother-of-pearl dial offers subtle glamour, making it perfect for weddings, cocktail receptions, or confident boardroom moments.
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. 179174 (2008)? A: It’s a compact 26mm Rolex Datejust in stainless steel with a fluted bezel, a mother‑of‑pearl dial set with diamond hour markers, and a stainless‑steel Jubilee bracelet. This example is automatic, features a date at 3 o’clock with the Cyclops, and is delivered as a full set with box, certificate and hang tag.
Q: Which movement does it use and what is the power reserve? A: Lady‑Datejust 26mm models of this era typically house the Rolex automatic calibre 2235 with hacking seconds and a quickset date. The usual power reserve is around 48 hours. We can confirm movement details for this exact watch on request.
Q: What materials are used—does the bezel contain gold, and what crystal is fitted? A: Ref. 179174 pairs a stainless‑steel case/bracelet with a fluted bezel that is typically 18ct white gold. The crystal is scratch‑resistant sapphire with Rolex’s Cyclops magnifier over the date. We’re happy to verify the bezel specification for this specific piece if desired.
Q: Is the mother‑of‑pearl diamond dial factory Rolex and is each dial unique? A: Mother‑of‑pearl diamond dials are a known factory option for the Lady‑Datejust, with diamonds usually set in 18ct surrounds. Genuine MOP is natural, so its colour and iridescence are unique to each dial. We can provide macro photos to help verify originality on this watch.
Q: How do I wind and set the time/date on a quickset Lady‑Datejust (cal. 2235)? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 0 (crown unscrewed): hand‑wind 20–40 turns if the watch has stopped. Position 1: quickset the date. Position 2: set the time (the seconds hand stops). Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am. Push the crown in and screw it down firmly when finished.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I swim with it? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres, but water resistance on vintage/older watches cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. Treat it as splash‑resistant; avoid swimming or showering. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down and have the gaskets checked by an authorised watchmaker if moisture resistance is important.
Q: Will it fit my wrist and can the bracelet be resized? A: As set, it fits a wrist up to approximately 16.5 cm. The Jubilee bracelet can be adjusted by adding or removing links; we can size it before dispatch. Additional links may be sourced subject to availability—share your wrist measurement for guidance.
Q: Can I swap the Jubilee bracelet for a strap, and what is the lug width? A: Many Lady‑Datejust 26mm models accept straps with the correct end‑links; typical lug width for this size is around 13mm, but it can vary slightly by bracelet/end‑link. Contact us and we’ll confirm the exact compatibility and recommend suitable straps for this reference.
Q: What condition should I expect with this watch? A: Excellent overall condition with light traces of use. The hardware presents shiny with light scratches consistent with careful wear. Please review the listing photos for the best representation of its character.
Q: What is included, and do you guarantee authenticity and warranty? A: This listing is delivered as a full set: box, certificate and hang tag. A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and offers a 12‑month mechanical guarantee, free insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers. Additional verification of reference/serial details can be supplied 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 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
9 304 £
37%
off retail price
• Stainless steel case, 26mm
• Fluted bezel
• Mother-of-pearl dial with diamond hour markers
• Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
• Automatic movement
• Date display at the 3 o'clock position
• From 2008
• Comes as a full set with box and papers
