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.
This elegant Rolex Lady-Datejust Ref. 79174 combines stainless steel and 18K white gold in a refined 26mm case. In very good condition, it features a fluted bezel and an exquisite mother-of-pearl dial with Arabic numerals. Produced in 2005, this timepiece sits on a comfortable Jubilee bracelet and comes complete with its original box, outer box, and booklet.
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 (2005)? A: It’s a classic Lady-Datejust in White Rolesor (stainless steel with an 18ct white-gold fluted bezel), featuring a petite 26mm Oyster case, a mother-of-pearl dial with Arabic numerals, and a date at 3 o’clock under the Cyclops magnifier. It’s paired with a comfortable stainless-steel Jubilee bracelet and powered by an automatic movement—elegant for smaller wrists and versatile for everyday wear.
Q: Which movement does this reference typically use, and does it have a quickset date? A: Lady-Datejust 79174 models from this era commonly house the automatic Rolex Calibre 2235 (COSC-certified), which features a quickset date and an approximate 48-hour power reserve. We can verify the exact calibre in this specific watch on request.
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 pieces cannot be guaranteed without recent gasket replacement and professional pressure testing. Avoid swimming or showering unless it has been freshly re-sealed and tested, and always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any exposure to moisture.
Q: What are the case, bezel, bracelet and crystal materials? A: The watch combines a stainless-steel Oyster case with an 18ct white-gold fluted bezel (White Rolesor). It is fitted with a stainless-steel Jubilee bracelet. Most 2005 Lady-Datejust models feature a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with Rolex’s Cyclops lens over the date; we’re happy to confirm the crystal on this exact piece.
Q: How do I wind and 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 roughly between 8pm and 2am. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly to help maintain water resistance.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the bracelet be resized? A: As listed, it fits wrists up to approximately 18 cm and comes with four extra links. We can size the Jubilee bracelet prior to dispatch, and additional genuine links can often be sourced (subject to availability). Share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise the best fit.
Q: What should I know about the mother-of-pearl dial and its care? A: Mother-of-pearl is natural, so colour and iridescence vary and are part of its charm. Avoid harsh chemicals, solvents, perfumes and prolonged direct sunlight. Clean gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth and store away from humidity and extreme heat to preserve the dial’s lustre.
Q: How does the 26mm Lady-Datejust compare to the later 28mm? A: The 26mm offers a distinctly vintage proportion with a petite, jewellery-like presence, ideal for smaller wrists. The 28mm, introduced later, provides a slightly larger dial and a more modern look. Choice depends on wrist size and style preference.
Q: What accuracy should I expect, and how often should it be serviced? A: A healthy Calibre 2235 typically keeps chronometer-grade time, though real-world performance varies with age and service history. A routine service every 5–10 years is recommended, or sooner if accuracy or water resistance is a concern. Keep it away from strong magnets and wipe the watch clean with a soft cloth after wear.
Q: What’s included, and do you guarantee authenticity and offer a warranty? A: This listing is delivered with box, outer box, booklet and four extra links as stated. A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. All watches include a 12-month mechanical guarantee. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14-day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers; contact us for any specific documentation or delivery 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 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.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Womens watches
/ Lady-Datejust
$8,238
53%
off retail price
• 26mm case in stainless steel and 18k white gold
• Fluted bezel
• Mother-of-pearl dial with Arabic numerals
• Date window at 3 o'clock position
• Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
• Automatic movement
• Reference: 79174
• From 2005
