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
This exquisite Rolex Lady-Datejust Ref. 79174 features a rare blue Sodalite dial with diamond hour markers, housed in a 26mm stainless steel case with 18k white gold fluted bezel. From 2002, this automatic timepiece on Jubilee bracelet brings sophisticated luxury to both professional settings and elegant evening occasions, making it a perfect statement piece for the discerning collector.
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. 79174 with Sodalite dial? A: It’s a 26mm Lady-Datejust in stainless steel with an 18ct white‑gold fluted bezel, a rare blue natural sodalite stone dial set with diamond hour markers, and a stainless‑steel Jubilee bracelet. This example is from 2002 and features an automatic self‑winding movement—elegant, collectible and refined for daily wear or evening occasions.
Q: Which movement does it use and does it have a quickset date? A: Most early‑2000s Lady‑Datejust Ref. 79174 watches house the automatic Rolex Calibre 2235 with a quickset date. Exact calibre can vary; if you’d like us to confirm the movement in this specific piece, please contact us.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and suitable for swimming? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres, but water resistance on vintage/pre‑owned watches cannot be guaranteed without recent gasket replacement and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless it has been freshly serviced and tested, and always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any exposure to moisture.
Q: How do I set the time and date safely? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: wind (about 20–30 turns if the watch has stopped). Position 2: quickset the date. Position 3: set the time. Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly to help maintain water resistance.
Q: What is a sodalite dial and how should I care for it? A: Sodalite is a natural semi‑precious stone; each dial shows unique veining and colour variation. Stone dials can be more sensitive to shocks and rapid temperature changes—avoid hard knocks, extreme heat/cold, ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. Clean gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth and keep the crown fully screwed down to reduce moisture risk.
Q: Are the diamond hour markers factory original? A: Rolex offered sodalite dials with diamond hour markers on the Lady‑Datejust. A Retro Tale inspects and authenticates every watch; on request we can help verify whether the dial and stones on this specific piece are factory‑original using detailed photos and reference checks.
Q: Does it have a sapphire crystal and Cyclops magnifier? A: Yes—most Ref. 79174 examples from this era feature a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal with Rolex’s signature Cyclops lens over the date. If you’d like us to confirm the crystal type on this exact watch, we’re happy to verify.
Q: Will the Jubilee bracelet fit my wrist, and can it be resized? A: The bracelet can be sized for your wrist, and additional links can often be sourced subject to availability. Many owners also enjoy the Lady‑Datejust on leather; we can advise on compatible strap options for the 26mm case and correct lug width. Share your wrist measurement and we’ll assist before dispatch.
Q: How can I confirm the exact reference and production year? A: The reference is typically engraved between the lugs at 12 o’clock and the serial at 6 o’clock (bracelet removal is required). Early‑2000s pieces often carry a “Y”‑prefix serial, aligning with 2002. We can verify these details for you and provide additional photos upon request.
Q: What is included, and what warranty/shipping do you offer? A: This listing is delivered with no accessories unless otherwise stated in the item page. A Retro Tale guarantees authenticity and provides a 12‑month mechanical warranty. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers—contact us with any specific delivery or warranty questions.
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
8 102 £
• Stainless steel case, 26mm
• 18k white gold fluted bezel
• Rare blue Sodalite dial with diamond hour markers
• Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
• Automatic movement
• Year 2002
