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.
Perfect for black‑tie dinners or gallery openings, this vintage 1989 Rolex Datejust 31 ref. 68274 pairs a 31mm stainless steel case and white gold fluted bezel with a black dial set with diamond hour markers. With its stainless steel Jubilee bracelet and date at 3 o’clock, it moves effortlessly from the boardroom to evening 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 Mid-Size (Ref. 68274)? A: It is a classic, Swiss-made vintage timepiece from 1989. This "Mid-Size" model features a 31mm stainless steel Oyster case, a distinctive 18k white gold fluted bezel, and a black dial set with diamond hour markers. It is fitted with a stainless steel Jubilee bracelet, offering a refined blend of durability and elegance.
Q: Who is the 31mm size best suited for? A: The 31mm case is historically known as the "Mid-Size" or "Boys" size, sitting between the traditional 26mm Lady-Datejust and the 36mm Men's Datejust. Today, it is a highly popular choice for women who prefer a watch with slightly more presence and legibility than the smaller vintage standard, while remaining comfortable for everyday wear.
Q: What movement does this watch use, and is it automatic? A: This model houses the Rolex Calibre 2135, a highly respected automatic (self-winding) mechanical movement. The Calibre 2135 was a significant upgrade for the era, renowned for its reliability and precision. It features a Quickset date function, allowing you to rapidly adjust the date without turning the hands through a full 24-hour cycle.
Q: Does it have a sapphire crystal? A: Yes, the Reference 68274 is fitted with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which provides superior durability and clarity compared to the acrylic (plexiglass) crystals found on older vintage models. It also features the signature Cyclops lens at 3 o'clock to magnify the date.
Q: How do I set the time and date? A: Unscrew the crown anti-clockwise to release it. Position 1: Wind the watch manually (20-30 turns) if it has stopped. Position 2: Pull gently to the first click to use the Quickset function—turn to adjust the date. Position 3: Pull to the second click to set the time. Always screw the crown back down firmly against the case after adjusting to ensure moisture resistance.
Q: Is it water-resistant and can I swim with it? A: While the Oyster case was originally designed to be waterproof to 100 metres, water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed without recent pressure testing. We recommend treating it as splash-resistant only and avoiding swimming, showering, or submersion unless you have had it professionally sealed and tested by a watchmaker.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can it be resized? A: This watch is currently sized to fit a wrist of approximately 16cm or smaller. The Jubilee bracelet can be adjusted by removing links, and the clasp allows for minor micro-adjustments. If you require extra links to fit a larger wrist, please contact us before purchasing, as we may be able to source them for you.
Q: What condition is the watch in? A: This piece is in Very Good vintage condition. As a pre-owned item from 1989, it shows light traces of use consistent with its age, including scratches on the case, case back, and bracelet. The internal movement is in very good condition and running well.
Q: Are the diamond hour markers original? A: Rolex produced Datejust models with factory diamond dials. We verify the quality and setting of all gemstones; however, for vintage pieces, confirming factory versus aftermarket configuration can sometimes require detailed inspection. If you would like specific confirmation or close-up photos of the dial details for this watch, please contact us.
Q: Is it authentic, and what comes with it? A: A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. This specific listing includes the watch only (no accessories). It is covered by our 12-month mechanical warranty. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14-day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers.
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 offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
The shipping fee will be clearly shown during the checkout process. In some cases—such as during promotions or depending on your delivery location—shipping costs may vary. If no special rates apply, the standard international shipping fee of $49 will be charged.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
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.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
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.
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.
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.
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• Stainless steel case, 31mm
• White gold fluted bezel
• Black dial with diamond hour markers
• Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
• Date display at the 3 o'clock position
• Vintage
