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 boardroom to dinner, this vintage Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm in stainless steel pairs a blue dial, fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet with automatic ease. Made in 1997, it lends refined polish to meetings, celebrations and weekend brunches.
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 (1997) and who is it best suited for? A: It’s a classic Rolex dress watch in a petite 26mm Oyster case with a blue dial, date display and Jubilee bracelet. The 26mm size wears elegantly on smaller wrists and is ideal for those who prefer a discreet, vintage‑proportion look.
Q: What movement does this 1997 Lady-Datejust use? A: Most 1997 Lady‑Datejust models are powered by the automatic Rolex Calibre 2135 with a quickset date and approximately 42 hours of power reserve. Exact calibre can vary by reference; we’re happy to confirm the movement in this specific watch on request.
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 watches cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless the watch has been freshly re‑sealed and tested by an authorised watchmaker. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any exposure to moisture.
Q: How do I set the time and date on a Lady-Datejust? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: wind the watch (about 20–30 turns if it 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. Push the crown in and screw it down firmly when finished.
Q: What crystal and bezel does this model have? A: Most 1990s Lady‑Datejust pieces feature a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal with the Cyclops date magnifier. The bezel is fluted. Many references like the 69174 are known to have a white‑gold fluted bezel; we can confirm the bezel material for this specific watch on request.
Q: What is the exact reference and production year? A: The reference is 69174. The serial number U126080 corresponds to 1997. We can provide additional photos and help verify the engravings (typically found between the lugs) if you wish.
Q: Will it fit my wrist and can the bracelet be resized? A: This watch fits a wrist up to approximately 17cm. We can size the Jubilee bracelet for you before shipping, and additional links can often be sourced subject to availability and potential cost. Share your wrist measurement for guidance.
Q: What accuracy and service interval should I expect? A: A well‑maintained Lady‑Datejust should keep time close to period COSC standards (around −4/+6 seconds per day), though performance can vary with age and service history. A routine service every 5–10 years is generally recommended, or sooner if you notice running fast/slow or any moisture signs.
Q: What is included, and is the watch authentic? A: This piece is delivered with no accessories unless otherwise stated. A Retro Tale authenticates every item and provides a 12‑month mechanical guarantee for added peace of mind.
Q: Is the 26mm Lady-Datejust discontinued, and how does it compare to the 28mm? A: Rolex later moved the Lady‑Datejust to 28mm, offering a slightly larger dial and modern presence. The 26mm remains a refined, vintage‑classic proportion—choice depends on wrist size and style preference.
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.
